THE
A ROUND A CADEMY
Old Traditions, New Horizons
On the 40th Anniversary of women at CGA, one graduate looks back at how she and her fellow trailblazers “survived” the Academy. By CDR Kathy A. Hamblett, USCG (ret), ’80
Swearing-in cadets Linda Dolney and Mary L. Southwood during Swab Summer at the Academy. (U.S. Coast Guard)
I
n recognition of 40 years of women graduating from the United States Coast Guard Academy, the following letter from the Class of 1980 women was read at the virtual graduation ceremony for the Class of 2020 women: May 20, 2020 To the Women of the Class of 2020 Congratulations on your graduation! We are Officers, Sisters, Wives, Mothers and Grandmothers who join you in commemorating the 40th anniversary of the graduation of women from the United States Coast Guard Academy. As members of the first class with women, we experienced diverse reactions to our presence, both in opposition and support as we broke ground for generations of women to follow. Since May 1980 over 1,850 women have graduated from the Academy, earned officer commissions, and proudly served our country. We were referred to as pioneers and trailblazers. We fought and won the good fight alongside our classmates, earning unqualified acceptance and respect within the entire Academy community and in the officer corps. Ensure our legacy is passed along. Warmest regards and fond wishes as you embark on your career. The Women of the Class of 1980 Jean M. Butler
Linda Johansen
Monyee Smith
Susan K. Donner
Joanne McCaffrey
Mary-Lou Southwood
Mary Jane East
Christine Quedens
Jody Turner
Michele Fitzpatrick
Tami Rose
Karen Tweed
Kathy Hamblett
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Sharon Willis Fijalka
December 2020/January 2021
