Throughout the history of the United States, women have made immense contributions to the armed forces. From the American Revolution to present-day military engagements, women have served with courage and resilience, often overcoming significant barriers to pave the way for future generations. As we get ready to celebrate Veteran’s Day (November 11th) and honor our heroes, Women of Wisdom highlights some of the most notable women veterans whose legacies continue to inspire.
1. Deborah Sampson (1760–1827) – Revolutionary War Patriot
- One of the earliest known female veterans, Deborah Sampson disguised herself as a man to enlist in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Under the alias “Robert Shurtliff,” Sampson fought bravely and endured harsh conditions, even treating her own injuries to avoid discovery. When her true identity was revealed, she was honorably discharged and went on to advocate for women’s rights, including her own pension as a female soldier. Sampson’s story underscores the courage and determination of early women patriots.
2. Harriet Tubman (1822–1913) – Civil War Nurse and Spy
- Known primarily for her work as a conductor on the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman also served the Union Army during the Civil War. Tubman worked as a nurse, scout, and spy, leading multiple missions behind Confederate lines. Her efforts provided critical intelligence and support to the Union, and her legacy as a leader and advocate for freedom has made her one of America’s most revered figures. Tubman’s role as a woman of color in the military was both groundbreaking and inspiring, underscoring her courage and commitment to justice.
3. Opha May Johnson (1878–1955) – First Woman to Enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps
- In 1918, Opha May Johnson made history as the first woman to enlist in the United States Marine Corps. Johnson’s enlistment came during World War I when women were needed to fill roles on the home front, freeing up more men for combat. Though she served primarily in a clerical position, Johnson’s pioneering spirit opened the door for more women in the Marines and set the stage for women’s expanded roles in the military.
4. Colonel Oveta Culp Hobby (1905–1995) – Leader of the Women’s Army Corps
- During World War II, Oveta Culp Hobby led the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC), later renamed the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). Appointed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Hobby was instrumental in integrating women into the military, allowing them to serve in various non-combat roles. Under her leadership, thousands of women contributed to the war effort, changing public perception of women in the armed forces and setting a precedent for future service members.
5. Captain Rosemary Bryant Mariner (1953–2019) – Pioneering Naval Aviator
- Rosemary Bryant Mariner was one of the first women to earn her wings as a U.S. Navy pilot in 1974 and later became the Navy’s first female jet pilot. Throughout her career, Mariner broke down numerous barriers, advocating for women’s rights to serve in combat roles. Her legacy as a trailblazer for women in aviation endures, inspiring young female aviators to pursue their dreams in the skies.
6. Lieutenant General Patricia Horoho (b. 1960) – First Female Surgeon General of the Army
- Patricia Horoho made history in 2011 when she became the first woman and the first nurse to serve as the Surgeon General of the United States Army. Horoho’s service spanned several key assignments, including her work in the aftermath of the 9/11 Pentagon attack and Hurricane Katrina. Her leadership in military healthcare has paved the way for future generations of female medical professionals within the military.
7. Sergeant Leigh Ann Hester (b. 1982) – First Woman Awarded the Silver Star for Combat Action
- In 2005, Leigh Ann Hester became the first woman since World War II to receive the Silver Star for her bravery in direct combat. Serving in Iraq with the Kentucky Army National Guard, Hester led her squad in a firefight against insurgents, saving the lives of her fellow soldiers. Her actions shattered stereotypes about women’s abilities in combat and demonstrated the critical role women play in active military engagements.
8. Major General Jeanne Holm (1921–2010) – First Female General in the Air Force
- Jeanne Holm’s career spanned over three decades, beginning during World War II. She broke numerous barriers as she rose through the ranks, ultimately becoming the first woman to achieve the rank of General in the U.S. Air Force. Holm’s advocacy for gender equality in the armed forces influenced policies that expanded opportunities for women, leaving an indelible impact on the Air Force and beyond.
9. Brigadier General Wilma Vaught (b. 1930) – Advocate for Women’s Service in the Military
- Wilma Vaught was among the first women to hold a general officer rank in the U.S. Air Force. As a logistics officer, she served during the Vietnam War and worked tirelessly to improve the conditions and rights of women in the military. Vaught is also the driving force behind the Women in Military Service for America Memorial, the only national memorial honoring women who served in the armed forces. Her efforts have preserved the legacy of countless women veterans, ensuring their contributions are not forgotten.
10. Sergeant Lori Piestewa (1979–2003) – First Native American Woman Killed in Combat
- Lori Piestewa, a member of the Hopi tribe, was the first Native American woman to die in combat while serving in the U.S. military. Piestewa was deployed to Iraq with the U.S. Army and lost her life during a raid in 2003. Her bravery and sacrifice are honored annually by Native American communities, and her story serves as a testament to the contributions of Native Americans in the U.S. military.
Honoring Their Legacy and Inspiring the Future
These remarkable women veterans not only served their country with honor but also challenged traditional roles and broke new ground for future generations. Their stories remind us of the strength, resilience, and dedication of women in uniform, whose contributions often go unrecognized in the broader narrative of military history. As we continue to honor women veterans, let us remember these trailblazers whose sacrifices have shaped the military and inspired countless others to serve.
Women Veterans Today
Today, women make up about 17% of the active-duty military and serve in nearly every role. Organizations like the Women in Military Service for America Memorial Foundation and the VA Women Veterans Health Program support the unique needs of women veterans and continue to advocate for equality and recognition. As the military evolves, these efforts are essential to ensuring that women veterans receive the respect, care, and acknowledgment they deserve.
These ten women veterans, along with countless others, embody the courage, determination, and selflessness that define true patriotism. Let us celebrate their contributions and work to build a future where all veterans receive the honor and support they are due.
Note: this article was partially created using ChatGPT. The image was created using Dall-E3 by ChatGPT
