The Military Women’s Memorial stands as a testament to the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of the over 3 million women who have served in or alongside the U.S. Armed Forces since the American Revolution. Situated at the gateway to Arlington National Cemetery, this unique national memorial not only honors these women but also educates visitors about their invaluable contributions throughout history.
A Legacy of Service
From the days of the Revolutionary War to present missions, women have been integral to the defense and prosperity of the United States. Their roles have evolved from unofficial support positions to critical assignments across all military branches. As of 2023, women constitute approximately 11.3% of the veteran population, totaling around 2.1 million female veterans in the U.S.
The Military Women’s Memorial Register
Central to the Memorial’s mission is the Register, an interactive database that records and preserves the personal stories, service details, photographs, and memorable experiences of servicewomen. This repository ensures that each woman’s contributions are recognized and remembered. Currently, the Register includes nearly 308,500 profiles, yet with over 3 million women having served, many stories remain unrecorded.Why Participation Matters
Registering with the Military Women’s Memorial offers several benefits:
- Preservation of Legacy: Each registration contributes to a comprehensive historical record, ensuring future generations understand the pivotal roles women have played in the military.
- Educational Resource: The Register serves as an invaluable tool for researchers, educators, and the public, fostering a deeper appreciation of women’s military service.
- Community Building: Joining the Register connects servicewomen and their families to a broader community that honors and supports their experiences.
How to Register
Registration is free and accessible to all servicewomen, past and present. To add your story or that of a loved one:
- Visit the Military Women’s Memorial website womensmemorial.org/make-herstory/
- Create an account to access the registration portal.
- Provide service details, including dates of service, branch, awards, memorable experiences, and a photograph in uniform.
By contributing to the Register, you ensure that the narratives of servicewomen are not lost to history but are instead celebrated and preserved. As the Memorial emphasizes, “History is not complete until every military woman’s story is told.”
Conclusion
The Military Women’s Memorial serves as a beacon of recognition for the countless women who have defended the nation. Through the Register, each servicewoman has the opportunity to take her rightful and visible place in history. If you or someone you know is a woman veteran, consider registering today to honor and preserve this essential part of our nation’s heritage.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
