Bethesda, MD  –   Walter Reed National Military Medical Center began its observance of Women’s History Month with a proclamation signing Feb. 24 in the Tower’s rotunda at WRNMMC.

Since 1995, U.S. presidents have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.” These 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.

“I can think of no better place in the Military Health System to celebrate Women’s History Month than here at the flagship of military medicine,” said WRNMMC Director Army Col. (Dr.) Andrew Barr. He added WRNMMC is “a place where we train the future of military medicine in women’s health, where we advance the state of the arts in women’s health through academics and research, and where women in uniform and civilian women, honorable serve our nation through their expert skills and in the highest levels of leadership.” He said at WRNMMC, “we honor all women who served, currently serving, and those who will serve in the future. Women’s history is American history.”

Barr added that on June 12, 1948, the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act was enacted into law, enabling women to serve as permanent, regular members of the armed forces. He explained women honorably served the U.S. military at home and abroad, in combat and during peacetime, in support roles and fighting on the frontlines.

Approximately 350,000 American women served the nation in uniform during World War II, Barr continued. There have been 1.64 million female veterans to serve the nation. “Today, women make up a far greater share of the active-duty military than they have at any other time in U.S. history,” he furthered.

“The service, sacrifice and impact of women in uniform has paved the way for future generations guaranteeing a better and brighter future for all Americans and filled us with the promise of greater equality and opportunity,” said the WRNMMC director.
Hospitalman DeAnna Dyogi read the WRNMMC’s proclamation for Women’s History Month, and WRNMMC Senior Enlisted Leader Navy Command Master Chief Randy Swanson added, “Women have played in important role our nation’s history. They’ve served proudly and honorably in our nation’s military, as well as our civilians. I am honored and humbled every day to serve alongside such a diverse and amazing team.”