New York Senate marks West Point Day with cadet recognitions and remarks

Albany, April 9, 2025 — The New York State Senate observed its 73rd annual West Point Day on Wednesday, reading a previously adopted resolution and recognizing cadets and academy leaders in the chamber.

Senate leadership and members praised the United States Military Academy and the cadets present. Majority Leader Andrea Stewart‑Cousins opened remarks recalling the history and tradition of West Point and the academy’s contributions to military leadership and engineering education. “I wish each of you the continued strength and will to see through this great laudable undertaking,” the majority leader said as she honored the cadets’ commitment to service.

The chamber recognized a delegation from the academy, including senior staff and the cadet first captain, who the chief of staff identified as leading the Corps of Cadets. Colonel Condie (chief of staff) and other West Point officials were introduced and thanked for their presence. Speakers noted West Point’s two‑century history, its role in engineering education and the academy’s graduates among the nation’s military and public leaders.

Several senators introduced individual cadets from their districts and offered short biographical details — including academic majors, intended military branches and post‑graduation plans — as well as expressions of pride and good wishes. Introductions included cadets identified as planning postings to Fort Cavazos, Fort Benning or Fort Bragg, cadets accepted to graduate programs, and cadets described as scholarship recipients. Senators emphasized themes of duty, honor and country and closed with the chamber’s traditional “Go Army — Beat Navy” remarks.

The Senate read the resolution (Resolution 503, by Senator Skoufis) memorializing the governor to proclaim April 9, 2025, as West Point Day in New York. The chamber extended the privileges and courtesies of the Senate to the cadets and academy staff on the floor. The resolution had been noted as previously adopted earlier in the session.

The event was ceremonial; no formal legislative action (such as an enactment or vote on a bill) resulted from the recognition itself during the reading beyond the routine adoption of previously approved resolution language.