red, white, and blue star with initials B V A

The month of March commemorates and encourages the study, observance, and celebration of the vital role of women in American history, including those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and later became veterans. Since 1995, presidents have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month” although the annual celebration had its beginnings in 1981 with an original Women’s History Week. 

These annual proclamations celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States and recognize the specific achievements women have made over the course of American history in a variety of fields.

Women have helped defend our country since the American Revolution. A few served in combat, disguised as men during the American Revolution and Civil War. Many served on the front lines during the World Wars. It took until 1919 for authorization to be granted for hospitalization and medical care for women who served as Army or Navy nurses during World War I.

In 2023, VA is celebrating 100 years of providing health care for women veterans with the first hospital spaces granted to them at the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers, the predecessor to the Veterans Health Administration.

For more about the century of VA women’s health care, including access to a Women’s History Month podcast, a historical timeline, a list of prominent women in VA health care, and a series of online video presentations, click here.