Skoufis and Eachus Honor Cadets on West Point Day

ALBANY – Senator James Skoufis (D-42nd District) and Assemblyman Chris Eachus (D-99th District) welcomed cadets and leadership from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point to the Capitol on Wednesday, April 9, to commemorate West Point Day. This was the 73rd year of this annual tradition.

The day included a formal presentation of cadets within the Senate and Assembly chambers during the morning’s legislative session. The two lawmakers introduced a resolution on the floors of their respective houses in honor of West Point Day, which was unanimously adopted.

The vision of West Point belonged to George Washington, who believed the broad vantage point its location offered would be of strategic importance. This proved to be the case, as–despite concerted efforts by the well-trained and well-armed British army–the garrison upon which West Point was built was never captured. It is today the oldest continuously occupied Army post in the U.S. This annual event is an opportunity for legislators to recognize the legacy of West Point’s history and the inspiring commitment of the Academy’s current cadets.

“It was an honor to welcome the West Point cadets at the Capitol,” said Senator Skoufis. “I am proud to represent these fine men and women. Their dedication to our nation and the protection of true democracy is inspiring, and it was a privilege to meet with them. I know I speak on behalf of all my colleagues in the Senate–as well as my predecessor, Colonel Bill Larkin–when I thank them for their service to our country and pledge the ongoing support of the New York State Senate.”

“Since entering the Assembly, I have had the profound honor of commemorating West Point Day here in the Capitol” said Assemblymember Eachus. “Every year I have met with these exceptional cadets, and every year I am left in awe of the accomplishments they have already made. These are the future leaders of our Nation, faced with the immense sworn duty to protect our values here at home and across the world. I couldn’t be prouder to celebrate and recognize their achievements today, and to represent West Point in the NYS Assembly.”

West Point leadership in attendance included Colonel Khanh Diep (USMA Chief of Staff), Major Kelechi Odocha, and Major Michael Oaks. Colonel David A. Bowlus, Chaplain, provided the day’s invocation.