Rapid City Resident Accepted to U.S. Military Academy at West Point

PIERRE —U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) today announced that Coby Mack of Rapid City has received a fully qualified offer of appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, which he intends to accept. Coby is the son of Heidi Bestgen and Troy Mack, the stepson of Branden Bestgen, and is a graduate of Andover High School in Andover, Mass. He was nominated to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point by Rounds.

“I congratulate Coby on his offer of appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point,” said Rounds. “Coby has worked hard to achieve his dream of playing Division 1 hockey, and was recruited by the U.S. Military Academy to play on their hockey team. I wish him all the best as he takes on this challenge and commend him for his desire to serve our country.”

"This entire process has truly been humbling. I would like to thank Senator Rounds for his kind words, and to his staff for helping me along with the process. I would without a doubt, not be where I am today without the unconditional and loving support from family and friends. I am incredibly honored to represent the state of South Dakota."

Each year, Rounds is able to nominate a select group of eligible students from South Dakota to attend our nation’s four service academies: The U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy. More information about the nomination process and eligibility requirements can be found here.