Celebrating 40 Years Of Women At The U.S. Naval Academy

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- As we count down to the big Army vs. Navy showdown in Baltimore on Saturday, the Navy recognizes a huge milestone -- celebrating 40 years of women at the Naval Academy.

In 1976, 81 women entered uncharted territory -- becoming the first female midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy.

"The women that were in the class of '80 in the higher ranks. So they are becoming our mentors, and we are seeking them out, and we are just simply following them in their footsteps," said Andy Coutoulakis, Midshipman First Class, lieutenant. "They are the trailblazers."

The women broke down barriers, paving the path for the next generation of female officers.

"I think there are always improvements to be made, but they're being made, and that's what's important," said Isabel Krause, Midshipman First Class, squad leader.

Women's presence has grown tremendously in 40 years. What started off as six-percent in the entering class has now grown to more than 28-percent.

"It's really humbling to be a part of such a culture," said Coutoulakis.

Now, 40 years later, it has even become a family tradition.

"My mom was the first one to come, and her two sisters followed... '85, '87 and '89... So three in the first ten years of women. I'm here now and my cousin is two years behind me," said Tahlar Bandarra, Midshipman First Class, lieutenant.

A reminder to midshipmen of the pioneers who made the opportunity a reality.

"The work that they put in and the hard times that they had have really made my possibilities endless," said Bandarra.

"Women are also now allowed in special forces, women are allowed to do essentially whatever they would like to do. I'm very proud of that, and I really am excited to see where that takes us for the future," said Krause.

This year, more women applied to the Naval Academy than ever before, and a record number of them were admitted -- 274.

Since 1980, more than 4,600 women have graduated from the Naval Academy.