The Frederick County Republican Central Committee appointed two new members on Monday, according to The Frederick News-Post.

Richard Cheney and Bill Shreve will replace Tim Brooks and Bill Ashton, who were dismissed by the state's executive committee after failing to attend over three state conventions.

Brooks, who had racked up four absences in all, argued that two should be excused. As a U.S. Marine on active duty, Brooks says he faces restrictions on political activity.

Committee Chair Michael Hough (R- Brunswick), who is also a candidate for state delegate, praised the new members.

"They both have demonstrated through hard work their commitment to strengthening the Republican Party in Frederick County," Hough told the News-Post.

Cheney  --  a resident of New Market and retired member of the U.S. Air Force  --  has been an active volunteer within the party. He received the "Volunteer of the Year" and "Man of the Year" awards from the Anne Arundel Republican Central Committee.

Shreve ran for a seat on the Frederick County Commission in 2006, but was defeated in the primary.