Former Windham student to attend Naval Academy

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree announced that Thanakrit Manjai from Windham has accepted an offer to attend the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.  Pingree nominated Manjai to the Academy in December.

“With over three years of service in the Navy, Thanakrit has already demonstrated his commitment to serving the country,” Pingree said. “From what his commanding officer says, he also has a sense of honor and duty beyond his years.  I’m very proud that he has been accepted to the U.S. Naval Academy and grateful that such a capable individual has chosen a career in service to our nation.”

Manjai graduated from Windham High School in 2012 and enlisted in the Navy soon after.  He serves as an Electrician’s Mate and has completed two nuclear power programs. He has also just finished a year at the Naval Academy Preparatory School.  His mother is Issaree Batsungnern. 

In a letter requesting a nomination from Pingree’s office, Manjai said that, from a young age, he knew he wanted to serve in the military, but was unsure of which branch—until he met with a Navy recruiter. 

“As we got to talking, he offered me an opportunity I was not able to turn down.  The nuclear field was regarded as one of the most intellectually challenging fields the military had to offer and as I developed an aptitude for science, more specifically physics, I was enthralled hearing about this,” Manjai wrote. 

“After discussing it with friends and family, I began the process of enlisting and preparing for the
biggest challenge of my life …With entrance to the academy, the prospect of achieving another level of honor upon successful completion of my time there—and also the opportunity to challenge myself even further—is present.” 

To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, applicants must be nominated by an authorized nominating source, which includes Members of Congress.