Sen. Richard Blumenthal announced the names of 36 students he has nominated for admission to the United States Air Force, Military, Naval and Merchant Marine academies for the Class of 2017.

“I’m proud to nominate some of the next greatest generation, smart, tough, dedicated men and women who are volunteering to risk and commit all. I thank them and their families for their service,” Blumenthal, D-Conn., said.

He nominated Zachary Clement, of Ledyard, to the Air Force Academy. Clement is a student at Three Rivers Community College. And he nominated Connor McMahon, of Norwich, to the Merchant Marine Academy. McMahon is a student at Norwich Free Academy.