Next Wednesday, June 12, has been designated Women Veterans Recognition Day in several areas of the United States. The date was chosen to mark the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, signed into law by President Truman on June 12, 1948. The legislation enabled women to serve in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and the recently formed Air Force. Except for nurses, women had previously served only in times of war. 

Although the date is not set apart nationally, it has been recognized by a number of states, either through legislation or proclamation, and by organizations. The stated goal of acknowledging the date varies somewhat by state but can generally be acknowledged as an effort to honor the work of women in the military and recognize the unique challenges they have faced. The date was first recognized when the New York State Assembly declared June 12, 2008, to be Women Veterans’ Recognition Day. There is a current movement effort to have the day recognized on a national level.

In conjunction with Women Veterans Recognition Day, VA’s Office of Connected Care is co-hosting a Facebook Live social media event with Women Veterans Alliance on June 12 at 1:00pm Eastern Time. The event, entitled “Beyond Basics – Tools and Technology to Support Women Veterans,” will showcase how VA’s tools and resources can support and empower women veterans in their health and wellness journeys. Audience members will be able to ask questions and offer comments, with experts responding to them during the event and immediately following. Participating is simple for those with Facebook accounts. Register here and then visit the Women Veterans Alliance’s Facebook page here on June 12 shortly before 1:00pm. Visit the Facebook Event Page here and select “Going” to receive an automatic reminder.