Thursday, October 1, 2026
Marcus Chiu, a student at Valley Stream High School, has been appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point, one of the nation’s most selective and prestigious institutions for developing military officers and future leaders.
Established in 1802, West Point is renowned for its rigorous academic standards, physical training, and emphasis on character development, producing graduates who go on to serve as commissioned officers in the U.S. Army.
In recognition of this significant achievement, Congresswoman Laura Gillen honored Chiu and other distinguished students from New York’s Fourth Congressional District during a recent U.S. Military Service Academy Breakfast. The annual event, hosted by Gillen, celebrates students who have earned appointments to the nation’s service academies, recognizing not only their academic success but also their leadership, discipline, and commitment to national service.
“I was honored to host a U.S. Military Service Academy Breakfast this morning to celebrate the exceptional young men and women from Nassau County who have earned appointments to our prestigious military service academies,” Gillen said. “Their dedication to our country is an inspiration and I look forward to seeing all their great contributions as the next generation of military leaders.”
Chiu’s appointment to West Point followed a highly competitive admissions process that weighs academic performance, physical fitness, extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and a congressional nomination. Fewer than 10% of applicants are accepted each year. His selection places him among a select group of students nationwide who will begin their education and military training at the academy this summer.
Chiu joins eight other students from the Fourth District who have earned appointments to various service academies, including the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy,and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. These institutions provide a path to military service while offering a top-tier education and intensive leadership development.
Chiu’s recognition stands as a proud moment for the Valley Stream community and reflects the strong tradition of service, achievement and civic dedication upheld by local students.
