In the military arena, women have distinguished themselves in leadership positions at all levels of the Corps including Kristen Baker's groundbreaking service as First Captain for the Class of 1990. Alison Jones of the Class of 1999 was only the second cadet in a decade to receive the Soldier's Medal for her heroism at the terrorist bombing of the American Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya. 2LT Kathleen Sherry, Class of 1989, in Desert Storm, Capt. Jennifer Shafer Odom, Class of 1992, in a crash of a reconnaissance aircraft involved in anti-drug operations in Colombia. Athletically, women have excelled in a diverse array of intercollegiate sports and gathered several dozen all-America recognition.
Women currently participate in nine intercollegiate athletic teams.
West Point cadets learn from the outset of their cadetship how to deal with integrated units and to recognize and respect the talents and skills that other individuals bring from their diverse backgrounds and cultures. The Academy leadership is committed to inspiring, educating, and training leaders who will be able to pass the test of leadership in all of the myriad of demanding responsibilities they will face for the 21 st century.