    [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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