“These candidates are the best of the best, and I am proud of their desire to serve our country. The academies graduate leaders who will guide our nation into the future and the men and women who attend the academies are entrusted with the greatest responsibility – to serve and protect the United States of America,” said Lynch.

“JohnPaul was highly recommended by his teachers at Xaverian Brothers High School. He is a remarkable young man, and we are fortunate that young people like JohnPaul are willing to serve our nation,” said Lynch.

Lynch and his congressional liaison to the U.S. Service Academies, Bob Fowkes, examined each candidate’s record of academic, athletic and service achievements in addition to evaluating letters of recommendation. After an extensive review process and a personal interview, Bettinelli was selected as someone whose scholastic record and community contributions elevated him to the top of a list of well-qualified candidates.

“There were many impressive candidates this year for the U.S. Naval Academy," Lynch added. "JohnPaul stood out as a young man of keen intelligence and strong character. He is a wonderful reflection of his parents, John and Patricia. The Bettinelli family, the town of Canton, and the entire Commonwealth of Massachusetts should be proud of JohnPaul in this achievement.”

Students interested in attending one of the U.S. Service Academies should contact Bob Fowkes in Lynch’s Boston office. For information: 617-428-2000.