We're diving into the fascinating and tumultuous history of women in the U.S. military. Women have played a crucial role in military capacities since colonial times. They also navigated a complex journey toward inclusion, breaking down gender barriers. This blog highlights how women have reshaped the armed forces and created a rich and enduring legacy in U.S. military history.
The American Revolution
Remarkable Woman: Deborah Sampson
The U.S. gained independence in the Revolutionary War, with women serving as cooks, nurses, and spies alongside their male counterparts on the front lines. One well-known woman from this era is New England native Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a man to enlist in the Continental Army and fought in several major battles, including the siege of Yorktown.
The American Civil War
Remarkable Woman: Clara Barton
Clara Barton was an active nurse who provided medical care and supplies to soldiers during the American Civil War. Her compassion earned her the nickname “Angel of the Battlefield.” When the war was over, she sought new ways to support veterans and their families, opening an “Office of Missing Soldiers” under the purview of President Lincoln. She later founded the American Red Cross, an organization that carries on her tradition of compassion for people in conflict or disaster zones to this day.
World War I
Remarkable Woman: Edith Wharton
During World War I, Josephus Daniels, Secretary of the Navy, found a loophole in the Naval Act of 1916. Although it was standard practice that women were not allowed to enlist, it was never explicitly stated in this act. He opened the door to women – and more than 11,000 enlisted to serve their country. Women contributed in many fields, including how novelist and philanthropist Edith Wharton used her fame to assist the war effort. She raised funds for the French wounded and supported relief efforts. When the war ended, Daniels ensured that the women earned Veteran status and were included in opportunities for civil service jobs. Wharton embodied the spirit of resilience and dedication that characterized the wartime generation.
World War II
Remarkable Woman: Virginia Hall
The story of Virginia Hall, a courageous and resourceful spy, is a central part of World War II history. Hall, who worked behind enemy lines in France, gathered vital intelligence and assisted resistance movements. Like thousands of other women who contributed to the war effort, her work filled critical gaps in intelligence and helped strengthen the U.S. military's operations on the frontlines. Her dedication and bravery were crucial to the success of the Allies during the war.
The Korean and Vietnam Wars
Remarkable Woman: Jeanne (Hamby) Gang
While statistics are limited, women in the military continued to serve in crucial nursing and support roles in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. One such woman was Jeanne (Hamby) Gang, who served as a nurse during the Vietnam War, providing essential care to wounded soldiers under challenging and dangerous conditions. It’s estimated that 11,000 women acted as volunteers in the Vietnam War, including Gang, putting their lives at risk even though they were still excluded from direct combat positions.
The Gulf War and Beyond
Remarkable Woman: Major Marie T. Rossi
In 1991, more than 40,000 women were deployed for the Gulf War, and their performance led to further policy shifts. Among them was Major Marie T. Rossi, who served as a logistics officer during the conflict and demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication. Her contributions, along with those of many others, helped pave the way for future policy changes. Over the next few years, the Pentagon lifted the ban on women serving in combat aviation and naval positions. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan further accelerated changes in policy for women in the military. In 2013, the Department of Defense officially lifted the ban on women in direct ground combat, allowing them to serve in infantry and special operations roles.
Women in the military have played significant roles in all branches of the armed forces during peace and war times. In Lita & Jean: Memoirs of Two Generations of Military Women by Lita Tomas and Jean Marie McNamara, this mother-daughter duo chronicles their experiences as women in the military across two generations. Their personal narratives highlight the progress women have made and areas that still need to be addressed for full inclusion and equality.
We honor all women, past and present, who have dedicated part of their lives to U.S. military service. Their courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment have not only strengthened our military but have also inspired a legacy of progress and equality. From past pioneers to today's leaders, these women continue to redefine what it means to serve, leaving an indelible mark on both the armed forces and the United States as a whole.