06/12/2026
They served.
They led.
They changed history. 🇺🇸
On Women Veterans Recognition Day, the New York State Department of Veterans' Services proudly recognizes the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of women who have served our nation across generations!
Today’s observance marks the anniversary of the signing of the 1948 Women’s Armed Services Integration Act.
We pay tribute to extraordinary Women Veterans whose service helped open doors and shape history:
🇺🇸 Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, U.S. Army — the first woman in U.S. Armed Forces history to achieve the rank of four-star general.
🇺🇸 Col. Eileen Collins, United States Air Force — a Veteran, test pilot, NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration astronaut, and the first woman to command a Space Shuttle mission.
🇺🇸 Rear Adm. Grace Hopper, U.S. Navy — a pioneering computer scientist and naval officer whose work helped shape modern computing.
🇺🇸 Brig. Gen. Hazel W. Johnson-Brown, U.S. Army — the first Black woman to become a general officer in the U.S. Army and the first Black Chief of the Army Nurse Corps.
Their incredible achievements, and the contributions of all women who have worn the uniform, are an enduring part of our nation’s story.
DVS remains committed to ensuring Women Veterans know they are seen, valued, and connected to the benefits, services, and support they have earned.
