The helmet in the West Point emblem is the helmet of the Greek goddess Athena. I suspect any Spartan influence is incidental and superficial.
> The committee began with the creation of an emblem that consisted of a sword, a universal symbol of war, and the helmet of Pallas Athena. Athena, a fully armed mythological goddess, is associated with the arts of war, and her helmet signifies wisdom and learning.
> The committee began with the creation of an emblem that consisted of a sword, a universal symbol of war, and the helmet of Pallas Athena. Athena, a fully armed mythological goddess, is associated with the arts of war, and her helmet signifies wisdom and learning.
http://usheraldicregistry.com/index.php?n=Registrations.2008...