Women have supported or served in the military in various capacities for as long as there have been military forces. Early times document women serving in supporting roles, primarily as nurses, but in many other capacities which contributed to the unit’s mission success. As war and conflicts continued, the unique and specialized contributions of women became more apparent. Women have been serving the United States since the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War and continue to serve today in each branch of our modern military.
On June 12, 1948, women were officially included to serve as permanent members of the military force without regard to campaign or conflict. While women had previously and consistently been serving in many capacities, the official recognition was formalized with the Women’s Armed Forces Integration Act signed by President Truman after unanimous support from the Senate.
To recognize the service of all women in uniform, The Military Women’s Memorial was officially opened in 1997 at the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery. The following year, a ceremony was held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Women’s Armed Service Act. Still recognized as the heart of the Memorial is the registry of more than 300,000 service women who have recorded their stories of service and sacrifice in support of our great nation.
June 12 is now officially recognized as Women Veterans Day by individual states. The efforts to receive federal recognition are ongoing. In Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine signed a bill into law to officially designate Women Veterans Day in December 2019, with the first celebrated day in June of 2020. While women have filled a steadfast and consistent role in serving and supporting the military for generations, the formal recognition is now one we can all celebrate together. To all the women veterans—THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!