The bald eagle, a symbol of the power and strength of the United States for more than 240 years, earned an overdue honor on Tuesday: It officially became the country’s national bird.

The National Defense Authorization Act has a provision barring the military's insurance from covering gender-affirming care for service members' children.

The bald eagle is emblematic of America. It's on coins and bills, graces the Great Seal and inspired conservation efforts that brought the species back from the brink of extinction. Though it was first used as the national symbol more than 240 years ago,

The bald eagle, indigenous to North America, is said to be a symbol of the power and strength of the United States for more than 240 years.