Commemorating 50 years of women at the service academies.

Summary of H.Res. 1380 (119th Congress)

Purpose and Intent

• This resolution commemorates and recognizes 50 years of women serving at the U.S. military service academies (United States Military Academy at West Point, United States Naval Academy, United States Air Force Academy, and United States Coast Guard Academy).
• It designates a ceremonial occasion as “50 Years of Women at the Service Academies Day” and honors the contributions and achievements of women cadets and graduates.

Key Provisions

• Section 1: Designation
  • The House designates a day titled “50 Years of Women at the Service Academies Day.”
• Section 2: Commendation
  • The House commends the extraordinary service of women cadets and graduates from the four service academies.
• Section 3: Honorary Recognition
  • The resolution honors past, present, and future women who serve in the United States Armed Forces.

Who/What Is Affected

• The primary effect is symbolic and ceremonial recognition by the House of Representatives.
• It acknowledges the service and achievements of women who have attended or graduated from the U.S. service academies and highlights their impact on the armed forces and national leadership.

Background/Context Included in the Resolution

• Historical data:
  • In late June to early July 1976, 395 women enrolled across the service academies (Air Force and Coast Guard: 195 total; Naval Academy: 81; Military Academy: 119).
  • Since then, more than 24,000 women have graduated from the academies.
• Impact Summary:
  • Women in the service academies have increased female representation in the armed forces from about 5% in 1976 to about 20% in recent years.
  • Service academy women have participated in combat roles, demonstrated leadership across branches, and achieved significant firsts (e.g., combat arms roles, command of ships and units, and other historic leadership milestones).
• Broader societal impact:
  • Service academy women have moved into senior roles in government, business leadership, and other public service positions.

Procedural/Timline Aspects

• Introduced and submitted to the House on June 23, 2026.
• Referred to the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for consideration of provisions within their jurisdiction.
• The resolution is ceremonial in nature and does not propose new policy or funding; it expresses recognition and appreciation.

Sponsors

• Primary sponsor: Ms. Houlahan, with numerous co-sponsors including members from both parties and multiple committees, reflecting broad bipartisan support for honoring the service of women at the academies.

Practical Implications

• No fiscal impact or regulatory changes are included.
• The resolution serves to educate and inspire by highlighting the historical and ongoing contributions of women at the service academies and the broader U.S. Armed Forces.

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