Happy Veterans Day 2024!

Celebrating the Contributions of All, with Special Recognition of Women in the Armed Forces

On Veterans Day 2024, we unite as a nation to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of all who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces. This day provides an opportunity to express gratitude to veterans and active duty members for their invaluable contributions to our nation’s safety and liberty. As we honor the achievements and resilience of all service members, we also take time to celebrate the unique contributions of women in the military—an essential and often under-recognized part of the armed forces.

The History of Veterans Day: A Day of Remembrance

Veterans Day has its roots in Armistice Day, which marked the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. Originally dedicated to honoring World War I veterans, the day evolved in 1954, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially renamed it “Veterans Day” to recognize veterans from all conflicts. Today, Veterans Day is observed every November 11, serving as a reminder of the bravery and commitment of those who defend our freedom.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) notes that Veterans Day differs from Memorial Day in that it honors both living and deceased veterans, celebrating all individuals who have served honorably in the military, whether during times of war or peace (https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/).

Women in the U.S. Armed Forces: A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice

Women have served in the U.S. military since the nation’s founding, though often in unofficial or supporting roles. During the American Revolutionary War, women worked as nurses, spies, and supporters. It was not until World War I that women began enlisting in formal roles within the armed forces. In 1917, the U.S. Navy enlisted women as Yeoman (F) — “yeomanettes” — marking the first time women officially served in a non-nursing military role (https://www.history.navy.mil).

Today, women are an integral part of the U.S. military, with more than 200,000 women serving on active duty, according to recent Department of Defense statistics. They make up roughly 17% of active duty personnel and have served in every combat zone since 9/11. Women now command at every level, breaking barriers across the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force (https://www.defense.gov).

Celebrating Milestones: Women’s Leadership in Combat and Beyond

The role of women in the military has expanded significantly in recent decades. In 2013, the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women in combat roles, allowing them to serve in positions like infantry and special operations that had previously been restricted. Since then, women have proven themselves in these challenging roles, leading to increased opportunities for advancement and leadership within the military structure.

The significance of these changes is evident in the stories of trailblazing women like General Lori Robinson, the first female combatant commander of a major Unified Combatant Command, and General Ann E. Dunwoody, who became the first woman in U.S. military history to achieve a four-star rank. Their achievements underscore the dedication and resilience of women in uniform and inspire future generations of female service members (https://www.army.mil/womenhistory/).

Supporting Veterans and Active Duty Service Members: A National Responsibility

On Veterans Day 2024, the nation recognizes the responsibility to support veterans and active duty personnel as they transition to civilian life. Many face challenges, including securing employment, accessing healthcare, and integrating back into their communities. Organizations like the Veterans Affairs Department, the American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars work tirelessly to ensure veterans receive the care and support they deserve.

Veterans’ mental health is also a key area of focus, with studies showing that veterans are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, veterans face unique stressors, and efforts to provide comprehensive mental health support continue to be critical (https://www.nami.org).

Honoring Their Legacy and Embracing the Future

This Veterans Day 2024, we celebrate the accomplishments and sacrifices of all who have served and also the progress made in fostering inclusivity within the armed forces. As more women take on leadership roles and break barriers, they enrich the military’s diversity, bringing new perspectives and strengths to the defense of our country.

Whether by attending parades, sharing stories of service, or reaching out to thank a veteran, Americans can find ways to honor veterans’ legacies and contributions. Veterans Day 2024 reminds us of our enduring debt of gratitude, and our commitment to uphold the principles they fought to protect.

For more information on supporting veterans, consider visiting resources like the Department of Veterans Affairs at https://www.va.gov or the Veterans of Foreign Wars at https://www.vfw.org. These organizations provide essential support to veterans and work to preserve the stories and contributions of those who have served. Another great Veterans organization is the American Legion.

Founded by an Act of Congress after World War I, The American Legion fiercely advocates for the unique needs of every generation of veterans, service members, and their families who pledge to protect our nation. Today, we are committed to destigmatizing mental health support, offering peer-to-peer resources, and empowering everyone to Be The One in the fight to end veteran suicide.

In unity and respect, let us honor all veterans and active duty service members this Veterans Day 2024, recognizing the resilience and courage that define their service.

Happy Veterans Day 2024!

Regards,

Keith Klein
Organizer, Wisconsin Business Owners
Founder & CEO, OnYourMark, LLC
Chief Blogger, Bloggey.com
Dealer, MainStreetOil.com

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This Veterans Day 2024 post was generated by Mark Mullarky and me with an AI assist.  Many thanks to Mark, CEO of Great Lakes Tech Services, for going out of his way to honor Vets year-round.  Please feel free to copy and share this post with attribution, including a link back to the original site it was posted on, a joint venture of Mark and me, Wisconsin Information Services eXchange.