The privilege of attending a service academy is accompanied by a solemn commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years following graduation. Members of Congress hold the authority to nominate candidates for appointment to four out of the five distinguished U.S. service academies, namely the U.S. Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, NY; the U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, MD; the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, CO; and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY. It's important to note that the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) in New London, CT, does not necessitate a congressional nomination for appointment.