February 14, 2025
With profound sadness we mark the passing of the Honorable Beverly Byron, Director Emerita on HJF’s Council of Directors (CoD). Former Congresswoman Byron served on the HJF CoD from 1996 to 2020.
As Congresswoman, she focused largely on military and national security issues, ultimately chairing the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel and Compensation. Byron’s career also included chairing the boards of CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield, Maryland’s Technology Development Corporation, and the Board of Visitors of the U.S. Naval Academy.
In 1993, President Bush appointed her to serve on the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission. She was also the original sponsor of national “Rails-to-Trails” legislation that helped expand the nationwide network of hiking and recreational trails.
“Beverly Byron was a national figure, widely respected for her passionate work in support of our Nation’s military,” said Joseph Caravalho, Jr., HJF President and CEO. “We were immensely privileged to benefit from her deep knowledge and vast experience. HJF considers her integral to the fabric of our organization. She is part of our family, and we will miss her deeply.”