National Women Veterans Day

Fierce female veteran in camouflage uniform, saluting with American flag backdrop. Short hair, confident expression, military base setting..
National women veterans day illustration

Did you know that women veterans have their own special day? That's right, National Women Veterans Day is a time to honor and appreciate the brave women who have served in the military. Let's dive into the fascinating history of this important day!

When is Women Veterans Day?

It's national women veterans day on the 12th June.


What is National Women Veterans Day?

National Women Veterans Day is observed on every 12th of June to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women who have served in the armed forces. It acknowledges their sacrifices, bravery, and dedication to the nation's defense. This special day serves as a reminder that women have played crucial roles in the military throughout history.

The Internet Buzz

On 12th June 2020, countless discussions and tributes took place online to honor women veterans. People shared heartwarming stories, expressed gratitude, and spread awareness about the day. With 13 online mentions, the internet was buzzing with support and appreciation for these incredible women.

Why is National Women Veterans Day Important?

Women have served in various military capacities throughout history, yet their contributions have often gone overlooked or undervalued. National Women Veterans Day aims to change that by giving these heroes the recognition they deserve. By celebrating their courage, resilience, and service, we can inspire future generations of women to join the military and be proud of their accomplishments.

A Fun Fact to Brighten Your Day!

Did you know that the first female U.S. Army general was Anna Mae Hays? She broke barriers and made history in 1970 by becoming the first woman to achieve the rank of general in the United States military. This inspiring milestone opened doors for countless women to follow in her footsteps!



History behind the term 'Women Veterans'


1917

World War I - First Women to Serve

In 1917, during World War I, women first began to serve in the armed forces. However, during this time, they were primarily employed as nurses and support staff, rather than in combat roles.


1945

End of World War II

In 1945, World War II came to an end, and thousands of women who had served in various capacities in the armed forces began transitioning back to civilian life. These women, who had played a vital role in the war effort, became known as women veterans.


1948

Recognition of Women in Military Service

In 1948, the Women's Armed Services Integration Act was signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. This landmark legislation provided official recognition for women in the military and allowed them to serve as regular members of the armed forces. Prior to this act, women were only able to serve as auxiliary members during times of war.



1948

Women's Armed Services Integration Act

In the year 1948, the Women's Armed Services Integration Act was passed in the United States. This act allowed women to serve as regular members of the armed forces for the first time. Prior to this act, women had served in various auxiliary roles, such as nurses and secretaries, but were not recognized as official members of the military. The passage of this legislation marked an important milestone in the history of women's service in the military.


1948

The First Recognition

In 1948, the Women's Armed Services Integration Act was passed, officially recognizing women as a permanent part of the military. This was a significant milestone in the history of women veterans, as it marked the first time women were granted full military status. It paved the way for women to serve in various branches of the armed forces and opened opportunities for them to contribute their skills and expertise in service to their country.


1977

Formation of the Women Veterans Project

In 1977, the Women Veterans Project was established by the Vietnam Veterans of America Organization. This project aimed to raise awareness and advocate for the unique needs and challenges faced by women who had served in the military. It sought to address the historical lack of recognition and support for women veterans, and to promote their contributions and experiences.



1942

World War II - Expanding Roles

During World War II, the roles of women in the military expanded significantly. In 1942, the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) was established in the United States, allowing women to serve in non-combat positions within the army.


1977

Eligibility for Veterans Benefits

In 1977, the Veterans' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Act expanded the definition of a veteran to include women who served in the military. This meant that women veterans became eligible for various benefits, including educational assistance, loan guarantees, and medical care through the Department of Veterans Affairs. The recognition of women as veterans and their entitlement to benefits marked a significant step towards gender equality within the veteran community.


1948

Women's Armed Services Integration Act

In 1948, the Women's Armed Services Integration Act was signed into law, allowing women to serve as regular members of the United States military. This marked a significant milestone as it officially recognized and granted equal rights to women serving in the armed forces.



1977

Formation of the Women Veterans Project

In 1977, the Women Veterans Project was established. This initiative aimed to raise awareness about the contributions of women in the military and advocate for their rights and benefits as veterans. The Women Veterans Project played a crucial role in highlighting the unique experiences and challenges faced by women who served in the armed forces.


1992

The Women Veterans Program

In 1992, the Department of Veterans Affairs established the Women Veterans Program. This program was specifically designed to address the unique needs and challenges faced by women veterans. It aimed to ensure that women veterans received equal access to benefits and healthcare services. The Women Veterans Program provided support and resources for women veterans, highlighting the contributions and sacrifices they made in service to their country.


1983

Creation of the Women Veterans Health Program

The year 1983 saw the creation of the Women Veterans Health Program within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This program was specifically developed to provide comprehensive healthcare services tailored to the needs of women veterans. It recognized the importance of addressing gender-specific health issues and ensuring access to quality medical care for women who had served in the military.



1988

Creation of the Women Veterans' Program

In 1988, the Women Veterans' Program was established within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The program aimed to specifically address the unique needs and challenges faced by women veterans, including healthcare, benefits, and support services.


1983

Creation of the Vietnam Women's Memorial

The Vietnam Women's Memorial was unveiled in 1983. The monument, located in Washington D.C., honors the more than 265,000 women who served during the Vietnam War. This memorial served as a significant step in recognizing the sacrifices and contributions of women veterans, specifically those who served during one of the most divisive conflicts in American history.


1948

The Women's Armed Services Integration Act

In 1948, the Women's Armed Services Integration Act was passed in the United States. This act enabled women to serve as full and permanent members of the armed forces, granting them many of the same benefits and rights as their male counterparts.



1992

Presidential Proclamation

In 1992, President George H.W. Bush signed a proclamation designating the month of June as Women Veterans Recognition Month. This proclamation aimed to honor the sacrifices and contributions of women veterans throughout history.


1992

Establishment of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial

In 1992, the Women in Military Service for America Memorial was dedicated at the entrance of Arlington National Cemetery. This memorial serves as a tribute to all women who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. It houses a registry where women veterans can record their stories and experiences, ensuring that their contributions are preserved and celebrated for future generations.


2008

Recognition of Women in Combat

In 2008, the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women serving in combat roles, further recognizing the valuable contributions and capabilities of women in the military. This marked a significant milestone in women's military history, as it acknowledged their ability to serve in all aspects of military operations. The decision also expanded opportunities for women veterans to pursue careers in leadership positions and showcased their strength and dedication to national defense.



1994

Presidential Proclamation of Women Veterans' Day

In 1994, President Bill Clinton proclaimed June 12th as Women Veterans' Day, honoring the contributions and sacrifices made by women who have served in the military. This day serves as a reminder of the long-standing history of women's service in the armed forces.


2010

Establishment of the Center for Women Veterans

In 2010, the Center for Women Veterans was established within the Department of Veterans Affairs. This center serves as a central hub for coordinating and advancing policies, programs, and initiatives that support women veterans. It provides a platform for women veterans to voice their needs and concerns, as well as facilitates outreach and education efforts to raise awareness about the contributions and experiences of women in the military.


2019

National Women Veterans Day

In 2019, President Donald Trump signed the National Women Veterans Day Act, designating June 12th of each year as National Women Veterans Day. This special day honors and recognizes the invaluable contributions of women veterans throughout history. It serves as a reminder of their bravery, resilience, and commitment to serving their country. National Women Veterans Day also raises awareness about the unique challenges faced by women veterans and encourages support for their well-being.



2005

Recognition of Women in Combat

In 2005, the Department of Defense announced the Women in Service Review, which paved the way for women to serve in combat positions. This landmark decision recognized the bravery and capabilities of women in all military roles and marked another significant step forward for women veterans.


2005

Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act

In 2005, the Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act was passed in the United States. This legislation aimed to improve the quality of health care services available to women veterans, recognizing their unique needs and experiences.


Present

Continued Recognition and Support

Today, the term 'women veterans' continues to be widely used to refer to women who have served in the military. Efforts to recognize and support women veterans have grown, with increased focus on addressing issues such as healthcare, employment, and representation. Organizations and initiatives dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of women veterans have emerged, paving the way for greater gender equality and inclusion in the military community.



2005

Expansion of Benefits for Women Veterans

In 2005, significant strides were made in expanding benefits for women veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs implemented the Women Veterans Health Program to address the unique healthcare needs of women who have served. This program focuses on providing comprehensive medical services, mental health support, and reproductive care specifically tailored to women veterans.


2011

Women in Combat

In 2011, the United States military officially lifted the ban on women serving in combat roles. This decision marked a significant milestone in gender equality within the armed forces, allowing women to fully participate in all military occupational specialties.


2019

National Women Veterans Day

In 2019, National Women Veterans Day was established in the United States. Celebrated on June 12th each year, this day aims to recognize and honor the contributions and sacrifices of women veterans.



Did you know?

Anna Mae Hays was the first female U.S. Army general, paving the way for many more women to reach high ranks in the military!

Tagged

awareness fun loved ones

First identified

12th June 2017

Most mentioned on

12th June 2020

Total mentions

13

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