06/12/2026
Today is is National Women Veterans Recognition Day.
As explained by the VA, this is not a Veterans Day just for women, but a celebration of the signing of the Women's Armed Services Integration Act in 1948, which was significant in that is allowed women the right to permanently and fully serve in the regular armed forces (and to be recognized as veterans after doing so).
Prior to the signing of this act, military women (save for nurses) were sent home after each conflict. Many were not treated as veterans who served their nation, but like civilians. They were often denied the rights and benefits afforded to men who'd served beside them, simply because of their gender. The act "deemed women essential to war efforts and allowed them to serve in the regular armed forces full time," (Missina Schallus, VA news).
Women have served in conflicts and wars throughout America's history, including the Civil War and the Revolutionary War, in positions as nurses and support staff (and even as spies!).
The VA notes, "Currently, Women Veterans Recognition Day is a state-recognized commemoration. This year, the states of Alaska, California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah... and Wisconsin will recognize" it, as will the Virgin Islands.
With that in mind, today and every day we salute women veterans, regardless of when, where, how or how long they served, or whether they reside in a state that recognizes the holiday. Thank you all.
