Bradford Area High School Student Accepts Appointment to US Air Force Academy

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Glenn `GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today announced Ryan E. VanGuilder of Bradford, Pa., has accepted a fully qualified appointment to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Ryan, the son of Jan and Alan Bean, is currently a senior at Bradford Area High School.

“Ryan’s commitment to serve our country, coupled with superior academic achievement and leadership traits, will serve him well at the U.S. Air Force Academy,” said Representative Thompson. “The education, leadership training, and skills that Ryan will learn at the Academy will not only prepare him for a distinguished military career, but also give him the tools to succeed in life’s many challenges.”

A member of the National Honor Society, Ryan will graduate from Bradford Area High School with a 100 cumulative grade point average, which includes both Advanced Placement and College courses. Ryan was also active in athletics as a member of the Varsity Soccer and Wresting teams. While at the Academy Ryan will continue his athletic career as a member of the Falcons Wrestling team.

Actively involved in school and community organizations, Ryan assisted with the Kiwanis Kapers, and is a member of the Go Green Enviro and Bradford Wrestling clubs. In addition to academics, athletics and community service, Ryan also maintained part-time employment after school and during summers.

“Young men and women of Ryan’s stature signal to me that the future of our military is in capable hands,” Representative Thompson added. “I am proud of Ryan’s accomplishments, and wish him and his family all the best as he begins his road to military service.”

Ryan’s paternal grandparents are James and Dorothy Bean of Bradford, Pa., and maternal grandparents are Beverly Ayers and the late William Ayers, also of Bradford.

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