Whereas the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) has developed a rich history of military and maritime service since its founding on September 30, 1943; Whereas New Yorkers are proud to have USMMA, one of our Nation’s five Federal service academies, on Long Island, New York; Whereas USMMA Midshipmen undergo extensive training, including spending a year at sea; Whereas USMMA Midshipmen and alumni have exemplified the Academy’s motto, Acta non Verba , (Deeds not Words), by faithfully serving our Nation in times of both war and peace; Whereas the USMMA is the only Federal service academy whose students have engaged in combat in times of war; Whereas during World War II, 142 Midshipmen gave their lives on behalf of our Nation; Whereas USMMA is the only Federal service academy awarded a Battle Standard, recognizing those sacrifices; Whereas the USMMA became the first Federal service academy to admit women in 1974 and graduate women in 1978; Whereas in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, staff and Midshipmen evacuated civilians from lower Manhattan and transported first responders and supplies to Ground Zero; Whereas Midshipmen are the future of our Nation’s maritime industry and will play a critical role in our defense capabilities through maritime service and commission in United States Armed Forces; Whereas USMMA graduates commit to eight years of service as officers in reserve units of the Armed Forces; Whereas USMMA graduates make up approximately 80 percent of the United States Navy Strategic Sealift Officers Force; Whereas during wartime or national emergency, a substantial number of merchant marine officers who are required to report for military service and assist in wartime efforts are USMMA graduates; and Whereas the United States Merchant Marine Academy has demonstrated its deep commitment to the people of the United States and the safety of our Nation: Now, therefore, be it