Historic Significance of Women Veterans Recognition Day

Women Veterans Recognition Day, observed annually on June 12, marks the anniversary of the 1948 Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which enabled women to serve as permanent members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Prior to this landmark legislation, women were largely restricted to auxiliary roles outside of wartime. The day honors over 3 million women who have served since the Revolutionary War, including trailblazers like Deborah Sampson (who disguised herself as a man to fight in 1782) and the WWII-era 6888th Battalion, the only all-Black Women’s Army Corps unit deployed overseas.

Despite these contributions, women veterans have historically faced systemic barriers to recognition and equitable care. Today, nearly 2 million women veterans navigate challenges such as higher rates of military sexual trauma (MST) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Recognition Day serves as both a tribute and a call to action, emphasizing the need for culturally competent healthcare, expanded benefits access, and public education about women’s military contributions.

Why All 50 States Should Formalize Recognition

While 20 states currently recognize June 12 as Women Veterans Day, federal legislation remains pending. State-level recognition amplifies awareness of critical issues, such as:

• Healthcare disparities: 1 in 3 women veterans experience MST or PTSD.

• Underrepresentation: Women constitute 10% of the veteran population but are often overlooked in policy and media.

• Historical erasure: Many pre-1948 servicewomen were denied veteran status until decades later.

Bipartisan efforts, including resolutions led by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), highlight growing momentum to institutionalize this commemoration nationally.

Invisible Warriors Gala to Host Alabama Proclamation Signing

The nonprofit Invisible Warriors will host a gala at the Holiday Inn Research Park, Huntsville, AL, featuring a proclamation signing by Governor Kay Ivey’s office. This event will designate Alabama as the21st state to formally recognize Women Veterans Recognition Day. Nancy Becher, President of Invisible Warriors, stated: “Alabama’s proclamation validates the sacrifices of our women veterans and reinforces our mission to combat MST and PTSD. With 1 in 3 women veterans affected, this is a vital step toward equity.” The gala will also spotlight Governor Ivey’s personal connection to military service, including her father’s WWII heroism, and showcase initiatives like Alabama’s first women-only PTSD support group.

For tickets, or sponsorship opportunities, check out: https://invisiblewarriors.org/events/silent-no-more-gala/

Media Contact: Invisible Warriors, (269) 319-6041

About Invisible Warriors A Huntsville-based nonprofit, Invisible Warriors provides advocacy, peer support, and resources to women veterans. Learn more at https://InvisibleWarriors.org