Each year I have the distinct privilege of nominating bright students in southern Missouri to attend our nation’s prestigious service academies. One of the highlights of my year is calling these young men and women in the spring and being the first to tell them they are among the few selected in the highly competitive application process. It’s an incredible accomplishment to be appointed to an academy, but then begins the real challenge of intense physical, mental, and military training at our ... READ MORE
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Congressman Jason Smith (MO-08) is seeking applications for nomination to the United States service academies for the Fall of 2020. Individuals interested in a nomination to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy or the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy should submit applications no later than October 31, 2019. “A highlight of my year is the opportunity to nominate students in southern Missouri to attend the service academies and beco... READ MORE
In the deadliest battles of war, American troops have rushed toward danger and risked their lives to fight for our country and protect their fellow service men and women. This week on March 25th we celebrate National Medal of Honor Day and the brave servicemembers who earned the United States military’s top honor. Medal of Honor recipients have served our country with dignity and valor, and a number of these heroes have called southern Missouri home. Awarded by Congress and presented by the Pres... READ MORE
This week I was incredibly honored to be asked to escort the President of the United States into the U.S. House Chamber to address a Joint Session of Congress and update American citizens on the strength of their country. I was amazed that in the moments just before walking in to give his speech to the country, President Trump leaned over to me and remarked how much he enjoyed spending time with Missourians over the past year and can’t wait to come back. We then walked onto the House Floor, and ... READ MORE
This week the United States laid to rest a president who served the country he loved in more capacities than could ever be expected of one man. We commemorated and celebrated the life of a war hero, Congressman, Ambassador, CIA Director, Vice President, and President of the United States. This week we said goodbye to President George H.W. Bush. Following the news of President Bush’s peaceful passing at the age of 94, Air Force One embarked on ‘Special Air Mission 41’ to carry President Bush’s ca... READ MORE
This Sunday, November 11th is the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day, which marks the official end of World War I. Today we call the anniversary celebration Veterans’ Day, but the meaning is the same – a day where our country expresses its sincere gratitude for everything our nation’s veterans have done to defend us at home and protect our way of life. Every veteran has sacrificed for you and me in one way or another. It’s not just the physical sacrifice they endure in a grueling bootcamp, a tou... READ MORE
Seventy-three years ago this week, Americans were eagerly waiting for the end of World War Two. It was a painful war for Missourians, especially those who fought on all fronts and at all levels of the military to secure an Allied victory. Our greatest generation answered the call to serve our country when she needed them most – and unfortunately some of our heroes are still waiting today for their proper recognition. In the darkest hours of the 1940s, Missourians banded together to win the war. ... READ MORE
Our nation owes a massive debt of gratitude to the veterans who have fought to protect our country and its freedoms. As I accompanied President Trump this week on Air Force One for his fourth trip to Missouri since becoming president, I saw how devoted he is to fight on their behalf so every veteran receives the best possible treatment upon returning home. I spent some quality time with the president and saw his deep love for both the state of Missouri and the men and women who have served in un... READ MORE
This Fourth of July, Americans all over the world will join together to celebrate our 242 years of independence. The freedoms we enjoy every day came at a great cost to many and are worthy of grand celebration and appreciation. As I think of the brave patriots who put it all on the line for us in 1776, I am proud and fortunate to be an American and humbled to represent the area in Missouri where seven generations of my family have called home. America’s hard fight for independence is an inspirin... READ MORE
Every year, I am honored to have the privilege of nominating outstanding young men and women from southern Missouri for appointment to our nation’s finest service academies. In the spring, I am overcome with emotion when calling many of the same students to tell them they have been admitted to one of our nation’s prestigious service academies. Earlier this spring I traveled to West Point and had the opportunity to visit with the cadets I have nominated in recent years and as well as other cadets... READ MORE
