Women & US Military

[Gregory Matthews]

MVP Celebrates Women’s History Month

Women have participated in every major military action throughout American history. From unofficial or secret roles in the American Revolution to widespread nursing positions in World War I to the first large-scale integration of women across all military branches during World War II to the present day, where women make up 17.5% of America’s active-duty forces. Today, women are the fastest growing group in the Veteran population. To thank and celebrate all women who have served America’s military, here’s a look at the background of Women’s History Month: According to the National Women’s History Museum, Congress formally designating March as Women’s History Month in 1987. Each President since 1995 has also designated March as Women’s History Month. Every year, the National Women’s History Alliance sets a new theme, celebrating the efforts, experiences, influences, and contributions of women throughout American history. We celebrate women’s history in March because of International Women’s Day, March 8th, which has roots all the way back to 1908 in America. The United Nations (UN) first celebrated IWD in 1975 during International Women’s Year and made the celebration official two years later in 1977.