Honoring Her Service: Celebrating Women in the Military This Veterans Day

Today, as we honor the courage and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans, we celebrate the extraordinary women who have served, and continue to serve, with strength, vision, and unwavering commitment. These trailblazers have not only defended our freedoms but have also redefined what leadership looks like within the U.S. Armed Forces.

For generations, women have stood tall in the face of challenge, often serving without recognition, yet leaving an undeniable mark on history. Their service reminds us that patriotism, perseverance, and progress are not limited by gender, and that the future of leadership is diverse, inclusive, and limitless.

This Veterans Day, we honor ten remarkable women whose dedication has shaped the story of the United States military:

Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody: The first woman in U.S. military history to achieve the rank of four-star general, Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody led the Army Materiel Command and redefined leadership in logistics and global operations. Her rise marked a new chapter for women in command across the armed forces.

Gen. Janet C. Wolfenbarger: Breaking barriers in the skies, Gen. Janet C. Wolfenbarger became the first woman four-star general in the U.S. Air Force. As commander of the Air Force Materiel Command, she advanced women’s roles in aerospace, technology, and national defense innovation.

Brig. Gen. Coral Wong Pietsch: A true pioneer, Brig. Gen. Coral Wong Pietsch became the first Asian-American woman to achieve the rank of general officer in the U.S. Army. Her leadership in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps and her service as a federal judge for veterans’ appeals continue to influence generations of military professionals.

Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley: During World War II, Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley led the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit deployed overseas. As the highest-ranking Black woman officer in the Army at the time, her courage and determination broke through both racial and gender barriers.

Lt. Col. Aleda E. Lutz: One of the most decorated women in U.S. military history, Lt. Col. Aleda E. Lutz flew over 190 evacuation missions as a flight nurse during World War II. Her bravery and ultimate sacrifice remind us of the countless women who gave everything in service to others.

Lt. Gen. Gwen Bingham: Known for her trailblazing leadership and operational excellence, Lt. Gen. Gwen Bingham became the first African American woman to serve as Garrison Commander at Fort Lee. She later rose to the rank of three-star general in the U.S. Army. Her work transformed military logistics and strengthened leadership culture across commands.

Maj. Gen. Marcia Anderson: As the first African-American woman to attain the rank of major general in the U.S. Army Reserve, Maj. Gen. Marcia Anderson championed diversity, education, and readiness for service. Her legacy reflects the importance of representation and mentorship in shaping future leaders.

Brig. Gen. Irene M. Zoppi Rodríguez: A proud Puerto Rican and intelligence expert, Brig. Gen. Irene M. Zoppi Rodríguez made history as the first Puerto Rican woman to achieve the rank of general officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. Her service reflects a deep commitment to both national security and the empowerment of Hispanic women in the military.

Maj. Gen. Angela Salinas: Maj. Gen. Angela Salinas broke new ground as the first Hispanic woman to reach general officer rank in the U.S. Marine Corps and the first woman to command a Marine Corps Recruit Depot. Her example continues to inspire women to lead fearlessly and serve with honor.

Maj. Gen. Lorna M. Mahlock: A visionary leader in cyber operations, Maj. Gen. Lorna M. Mahlock became the first Black woman promoted to major general in the U.S. Marine Corps. Her leadership in technology and defense illustrates how the future of military excellence is both digital and diverse.

A Legacy of Strength and Service: Each of these women exemplifies the essence of courage and commitment. They remind us that authentic leadership is not defined by rank alone, but by the willingness to serve, to lead, and to lift others along the way. 

As we honor all veterans today, THIS IS IT NETWORK™ proudly recognizes the women who have turned perseverance into progress and who continue to inspire us to lead with purpose, passion, and pride. To all who have served, we extend our gratitude and thanks.