Cadets Honored at the Capitol on West Point Day

ALBANY – Senator James Skoufis (D-42nd District) and Chris Eachus (D-99th District) welcomed cadets and leadership from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point on Tuesday, April 9, as they visited the Capitol to commemorate the West Point Day, an annual tradition.

The festivities kicked off with a private breakfast, followed by a formal presentation of cadets within the Senate and Assembly chambers during the morning’s session. The two legislators introduced a resolution on the floor in honor of West Point Day which was unanimously adopted. The cadets then enjoyed a lunch with state legislators and staff before departing back to Orange County.

It was President George Washington who conceived West Point, desiring to establish an institution devoted to the training and development of Army officers and engineers.

Established in 1802, the Academy’s long and decorated history along the Hudson River dates back to the American Revolution, and though both the American patriots and the British realized its strategic importance, West Point was never captured by the British, and today is the oldest continuously occupied regular army post in the United States. This storied academy has been the birthplace of the careers of some of our country’s finest military and civilian leaders.

“The men and women who have chosen to join West Point’s ranks in service to our nation truly exemplify the academy’s motto: duty, honor, country,” said Senator Skoufis. “It was a privilege to welcome them to the Capitol to share in this illustrious tradition. These cadets represent the bright future of American diplomacy and strength. No work could be more important, but it is clear they are more than up to the task. As their representative in the State Senate, I will never lose sight of their commitment or their sacrifices.”

“It is my distinct honor as representative of the 99th District to host these undoubtedly remarkable cadets,” said Assemblymember Eachus. “Although they come from very different parts of the state and country, these cadets are united in their dedication, willpower, and service to their country and fellow citizens. The longstanding history of West Point is marked with legendary leaders that have turned the tides of American history forever, and I have no doubts that the group hosted today has that same tenacity. As with my unwavering support of all serving members and veterans, I will uphold those same values and support these future leaders wherever I can.”

“It was an honor to join the members of the New York Senate and Assembly today with cadets representing the men and women of the United States Corps of Cadets who hail from all corners of the Empire State,” said Lieutenant General Steve Gilland, Superintendent, United States Military Academy. “This next generation will soon assume the mantle of service and leadership as Army officers, prepared to carry on the legacy of excellence of those who have come before them. Leaders of character bound by a common devotion to duty, a commitment to honor, and a desire to selflessly serve country. Our mission at the United States Military Academy is to develop those leaders for our Army and our Nation, and that mission would not be possible without the tremendous support of our state leaders in Albany, as well as our neighbors throughout New York, Orange County, and the Hudson Valley. We are honored to be part of New York’s legacy of service.”