New York Assembly adopts resolution asking governor to proclaim March 19, 2026, as West Point Day and honors visiting cadets

The New York State Assembly paused its legislative business on March 19, 2026, to adopt Legislative Resolution A.1069 asking Gov. Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 19, 2026, as West Point Day and to welcome visiting cadets from the United States Military Academy.

Assembly members opened the special recognition with tributes to West Point’s history and the cadets’ commitment to service. ‘‘The cadets that join us today . . . have chosen a path of service,’’ said the member who opened the ceremony (Pupilstrokes), praising the students for placing ‘‘self-service before self.’’ The Clerk read the resolution calling on the governor to designate March 19, 2026, as West Point Day. The Assembly adopted the measure by voice vote; the Speaker announced, ‘‘The resolution is adopted.’’

Colonel Daniel R. Stewie, commander of U.S. Army Garrison West Point, accepted the resolution and addressed the chamber. He thanked the Assembly ‘‘on behalf of Lieutenant General Gilland and Command Sergeant Major Barreto, the soldiers, cadets, civilians, and families of the United States Military Academy and U.S. Army.’’ Stewie described the academy’s mission ‘‘to educate, train, and inspire leaders of character for our Army and our nation’’ and noted West Point’s local ties, saying the installation’s civilian workforce ‘‘strengthens the regional economy.’’ He closed with a brief expression of gratitude and school spirit, saying, "On behalf of the entire West Point community, thank you for your service, for your continued support and for honoring West Point. We're proud to serve in the Empire State. Go Army, beat Navy." (Colonel Daniel R. Stewie)

Following the colonel’s remarks, members introduced cadets who were visiting the chamber, naming hometowns, company assignments, intended branches and academic majors. Introductions included Cadet Joel Shin (College Point), Cadet Ryan Zheng (Great Neck), Cadet Cade Riddle (Sleepy Hollow), Cadet Richard McGrath (Champlain), Cadet Caroline Carvajal (East Northport), Cadet Trisha Chen and others. Members highlighted personal ties between the academy and local communities and noted cadet achievements such as participation in athletics, academic research and specialized training.

The session concluded with routine housekeeping: the Clerk announced that amendments to bill A.8739 were received and adopted. A motion to adjourn carried; the Assembly stood adjourned until Friday, March 20, with a planned reconvening at 2 p.m. on March 23.

What’s next: The resolution asks the governor to proclaim March 19, 2026, as West Point Day; the governor’s office would record any formal proclamation separately.