[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 36 (Monday, February 24, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S1310]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       REMEMBERING BEVERLY BYRON

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life and 
service of the late Congresswoman Beverly Byron. For over a decade, 
Congresswoman Byron served western Maryland. She fought to advance the 
interests of her constituents and was a strong advocate for our 
national security. Congresswoman Byron has left a lasting legacy for 
the people of Maryland and our Nation.
  When Congresswoman Byron was elected in 1978, she was one of only 16 
women elected to the House of Representatives that year. She became a 
trailblazer, especially for women in the national security arena. A 
strong supporter of a robust national defense, she became the first 
woman to chair a subcommittee of the Armed Services Committee.
  Congresswoman Byron also advanced opportunities for women serving in 
our armed forces. She sponsored legislation to reorganize the military 
child care system, open combat roles, and fight against gender-based 
restrictions. Through the 1991 Byron amendment to the Defense 
Authorization Act, women gained the right to fly combat missions in the 
Marines, Navy, Air Force, and the Army.
  After serving in Congress, Congresswoman Byron continued to work to 
protect our Nation. She served on the Defense Base Realignment and 
Closure Commission and continued to offer her guidance on women in the 
armed forces.
  Throughout her distinguished career, Congresswoman Byron has been a 
role model for many. When I sought public office and served in the 
House and Senate, I always valued her unvarnished advice. I ask my 
colleagues to join me in expressing our appreciation and gratitude to 
the late Congresswoman Beverly Byron and her family for all she has 
done for the people of Maryland and our Nation.

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