By Nuirka Castaneda
March is Women’s History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the extraordinary contributions of women across history. In observance of this significant occasion, we pay tribute to exceptional female veterans who have profoundly influenced the U.S. armed forces and society at large. From the Civil War era to the present day, these women have shattered barriers, showcasing unparalleled courage and resilience. Their unwavering dedication to their country has served as an inspiration to over 2.5 million women who have bravely served in the U.S. military. Indeed, their patriotism and courage know no bounds, transcending gender barriers and leaving an enduring legacy for generations to come.
Harriet Tubman – Freedom Fighter and Union Spy
She is not only famous for escaping slavery and later rescuing over 70 other slaves as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, but also made significant contributions to the Union during the Civil War. Serving as a cook, nurse, and spy, Tubman played a pivotal role in planning and executing daring military operations. Her bravery and ingenuity saved countless lives and earned her recognition as the first woman to lead a military expedition in American history, resulting in the emancipation of over 750 slaves. Her legacy as a freedom fighter and patriot continues to inspire generations to strive for justice and equality.
Sarah Emma Edmonds – Civil War Heroine and Spy
A Canadian by birth, she emigrated to the US leaving an abusive family home under the alias of Franklin Flint Thompson. She enlisted on May 25, 1861 during the Civil War as a disguised Union soldier and spy participating in numerous battles and espionage missions, risking her life to support the Union cause. Her bravery and resourcefulness earned her the admiration of her comrades and secured her place in history as one of the few documented female soldiers of the Civil War.
Loretta Perfectus Walsh – First Female Enlistee
Following Navy Secretary Josephus Daniels’ decision to allow women to join the U.S. Naval Reserve Force to address the challenge of mobilizing forces, she promptly seized the opportunity. On March 21, 1917, only two days later, she enlisted as a Chief Yeoman, heralding a new era of women’s contributions to national defense beyond nursing roles. Her historic enlistment garnered extensive national attention and inspired a surge in enlistments, marking a significant milestone in gender equality in the military and recognizing the invaluable contributions of women to the war effort.
Colonel Ruby Bradley
A Symbol of Resilience and Fortitude
One of the most decorated women in military history, she endured 37 months as a Japanese prisoner during World War II, earning the title “Angels in Fatigues” alongside fellow imprisoned nurses. Despite enduring unimaginable hardships, she selflessly tended to the wounded, sacrificing her own well-being to alleviate the suffering of others. Bradley’s remarkable service, reflected in 34 decorations and medals, embodies the indomitable spirit of the American soldier.
Army Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody
Leading with Distinction
She made history as the first woman to achieve the rank of four-star general in the U.S. armed forces. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Women’s Army Corps in 1975, Dunwoody’s illustrious career spanned over three decades, culminating in her role as commander of the Army Materiel Command. Under her leadership, the AMC revolutionized global logistics, ensuring that the joint force remained ready and supplied. Dunwoody’s trailblazing career paved the way for future generations of women in the military, demonstrating excellence and leadership at the highest levels.
Army: Sgt. Leigh Ann Hester
A Trailblazer in Combat
She made history as the first woman to receive the Silver Star for her courageous actions in Iraq. Leading a counterattack against insurgents who ambushed her convoy, Hester displayed exceptional bravery under fire. Despite facing heavy machine-gun fire and mortar attacks, she fearlessly engaged the enemy. Her actions resulted in 27 insurgents killed, six wounded, one captured and every member of her unit surviving. Hester’s valor and leadership epitomize the resilience and dedication of women in combat.
Air Force Col. Merryl Tengesdal
She defied expectations by becoming the first Black woman to fly the U-2 Dragon Lady spy plane in the Air Force. Transitioning from the Navy to the Air Force, Tengesdal’s remarkable career exemplifies courage and perseverance. Flying missions in some of the world’s most challenging environments, including Afghanistan and Iraq, she logged over 3,400 flight hours and 330 combat hours. Tengesdal’s achievements highlight the importance of diversity and representation in military aviation.
Col. Eileen Collins
Her lifelong passion for aviation propelled her to become the first woman to command a space shuttle mission. Joining the Air Force in 1979, Collins’s exemplary career as a pilot and astronaut broke barriers and inspired generations of aspiring astronauts. Her historic command of Space Shuttle mission STS-93 in 1999 marked a milestone in space exploration and solidified her place in history as a pioneering figure in aerospace. Collins’s achievements exemplify courage, determination, and the boundless potential of women in STEM fields.
Coast Guard: Sara Faulkner
Sara Faulkner made history as the first female Coast Guard rescue swimmer, demonstrating unparalleled courage and skill in saving lives during Hurricane Katrina saving 48 lives in one night alongside her team. Faulkner’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and empowering women in the military.
An Emmy & Tony Award-winning actress, best known for her iconic roles in “Maude” and “The Golden Girls,” who also made her mark as a trailblazer in the Marine Corps during World War II. Enlisting at the age of 21, under her original name, Bernice Frankel, Arthur became one of the first members of the Women’s Reserve. Serving as a truck driver and typist, she rose through the ranks to become a staff sergeant before her honorable discharge in 1945. Arthur’s military service laid the foundation for her legendary career in entertainment, where she became a beloved figure and a celebrated advocate for veterans.
As we honor Women’s History Month, let us pay tribute to these courageous women who have paved the way for future generations. Their sacrifices, bravery, and unwavering dedication to duty embody the spirit of service and inspire us all to strive for excellence in every endeavor.
