About Women’s Veterans Recognition Day
Every year on June 12th, we take a moment to honor and celebrate a group of truly remarkable heroes: our women veterans.
While Veterans Day in November rightfully honors everyone who has worn the uniform, Women’s Veterans Recognition Day shines a specific light on the unique history, immense sacrifices, and groundbreaking achievements of women in the United States military.
It is a day to say thank you, to listen to their stories, and to recognize that women have always been an indispensable part of our nation's defense.
Currently, over twenty states officially recognize this day. It is a celebration filled with local ceremonies, resource fairs, and community gatherings.
For many, the day is also an important advocacy opportunity to address the unique challenges women veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life, particularly regarding access to dedicated healthcare and benefits.
The History of Women’s Veterans Recognition Day
Women have stepped up to serve in America's conflicts since the very beginning—sometimes even disguising themselves as men to fight on the front lines of the Revolutionary War. However, for generations, their service was officially restricted.
Historically, women were only permitted to serve in active military roles during times of war; when peace returned, only nurses were allowed to stay in the service, while all other military women were sent home.
Everything changed on June 12, 1948, when President Harry S. Truman signed the landmark Women's Armed Services Integration Act into law. This crucial piece of legislation finally granted women the legal right to serve as permanent, regular members of the U.S. Armed Forces, allowing them to build lifelong military careers.
Sixty years later, in 2008, the New York State Assembly officially declared the very first Women’s Veterans Recognition Day on June 12th to commemorate this turning point, sparking a movement that has spread across the country.
Did you know? Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, a Civil War surgeon, remains the only woman to have ever been awarded the prestigious Congressional Medal of Honor.
Did you know? The first combat ship named after a female member of the U.S. Navy was the USS Higbee, commissioned in 1945 in honor of pioneering World War I nurse Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee.
Did you know? During World War II, the legendary "Six-Triple Eight" (the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion) was formed as the only all-Black, all-female Army Corps unit deployed overseas, famously clearing millions of pieces of backlogged mail with the motto: "No Mail, Low Morale".
How to Get Involved and Celebrate
Honoring our women veterans is something we can all do, whether we have a military background or not. If you are looking for ways to show your appreciation and get involved this June 12th, here are a few great places to start:
Support woman-focused veteran charities: Consider donating your time or resources to organizations dedicated to helping female veterans, such as the Women Veterans Alliance or local shelter programs.
Attend a local ceremony: Many communities, veterans' associations, and historical memorials host special events, panel discussions, and breakfasts to honor local servicewomen.
Listen and share: Reach out to the women veterans in your life—your friends, family members, or colleagues. Ask them about their service, listen to their unique experiences, and thank them for their dedication.
Advocate for recognition: Since the day is not yet officially recognized as a federal holiday, you can write to your local representatives to encourage your state to formally adopt Women’s Veterans Recognition Day.
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