Moving Forward Together: Honoring Women in the U.S. Military
Women have been vital members of the U.S. military for over a century. Their journey from auxiliary positions to full integration into all branches of service is a story of perseverance, courage, and dedication. As we celebrate Women’s History Month with this year’s theme “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,” we honor the women who have paved the way for future generations.
The Early Years: Breaking Barriers
Women first served in the military in unofficial roles. During the Civil War, women like Harriet Tubman and Mary Walker served as nurses, spies, and even soldiers in disguise. However, it wasn’t until 1901 that the U.S. military formally recognized women’s contributions with the establishment of the Army Nurse Corps, followed by the Navy Nurse Corps in 1908.
World War II: Women Step Up
The need for military personnel during World War II led to a significant expansion of women’s roles. The Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC), later renamed the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), was created in 1942. That same year, the Navy established the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES), the Coast Guard formed the SPARS, and in 1943, the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve was introduced. These programs allowed women to serve in clerical, medical, and technical roles, freeing men for combat duty.
A Permanent Place in the Military
In 1948, President Harry Truman signed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act that officially granted women the right to serve as permanent members of the U.S. armed forces. Years later in 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Public Law 90-130, which expanded promotions for women and removed the cap on the number of women serving on active duty. These milestones recognized the immense contributions women had made during wartime and ensured their continued participation in military service. However, many barriers remained, as women were still largely restricted to support roles.
Expanding Opportunities
Over the following decades, women pushed for greater inclusion in leadership and combat roles. They became pilots, led majority-male units, and commanded missions. Captain Linda Bray became the first woman to lead U.S. troops in combat in 1989—a groundbreaking moment reflecting decades of progress. In 2005, Army Sergeant First Class Leigh Ann Hester became the first woman since World War II to receive the Silver Star for valor in combat. Just a few years later, in 2008, Ann E. Dunwoody made history as the first woman to achieve the rank of four-star general.
In 1993, the military lifted restrictions on female pilots flying in combat missions. This change allowed women to operate any aircraft, eliminating previous limitations on airframes and deployment locations. However, full access to all ground combat roles didn’t come until 2016.
Women had already demonstrated their effectiveness in combat during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, serving in roles such as Provincial Reconstruction Teams, Female Engagement Teams, and Cultural Support Teams. Recognizing their contributions, then-Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta announced in 2013 that the combat ban for women would be lifted. By 2016, all military positions were officially open to women.
Onward & Upward
After countless years of pushing for progress, women now serve in every military role, from infantry to special operations, proving their capabilities and leadership. Women’s contributions to the U.S. military have shaped its history and strengthened our nation’s defense. From nurses in the early 1900s to present-day combat leaders, they have inspired generations through their bravery and service.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s honor all female veterans—past, present, and future. Their sacrifices and achievements remind us that progress is possible when we move forward together.