Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Trent Kelly is proud to announce the appointment of Karter Vahle, of Oxford, Mississippi, to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

Each year, members of Congress may nominate candidates to the U.S. service academies. These institutions prepare young men and women to become leaders in the U.S. Armed Forces while receiving a top-tier education.

Karter has distinguished himself as a dedicated student and leader at Oxford High School. He serves as a Captain in MCROTC and has held the role of Company Commanding Officer since last spring. His leadership and commitment have earned him numerous honors, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars Bronze Medal, the Navy League Youth Medal, and the Raider Nationals Achievement Medal. He also serves as President of DECA, Vice President of Phi Theta Kappa, and held leadership roles at Boys State, including positions in the Federalist Party Executive and House of Representatives.

Academically, Karter has excelled through rigorous coursework, including multiple dual credit classes, and has earned strong standardized test scores and several academic awards. In May 2026, he is expected to graduate from both Oxford High School and Northwest Mississippi Community College, where he will earn an Associate of Arts degree in Criminal Justice.

Beyond the classroom, Karter is actively involved in athletics and extracurricular activities. He competes on the Oxford High School Cross Country and Archery teams and has contributed to MCJROTC through the drill team, color guard, and raider team. He has also demonstrated a strong commitment to service, completing 143 hours of community service.

Karter's achievements reflect his dedication to excellence and leadership. He has been recognized as a Boys State delegate and National Honor Society member and has completed several prestigious programs, including the Air Force Academy Summer Seminar (Session C), the Naval Academy Summer Seminar (Session 2), the MCJROTC Senior Leadership Course, and the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce Junior Leadership Course.

"I would like to commission into the United States Marine Corps and be a fixed wing pilot," Karter said. "I am most excited for the opportunity to learn from others, to better my leadership skills, and to get stronger mentally and physically."

For more information about the Service Academy nomination process through our office, visit trentkelly.house.gov.