October 23, 2026 - VFW Post 8904 honored women in military service during a program held October 16, 2026, at the Shelby County Veterans Memorial.
The program was led by Mary Roberts, Post Quartermaster, shared that history of women in the armed forces began more than 229 years ago, with women who served during the American Revolution and continues through the present day.
"The women we honor today are a remarkable bunch. Think of it, in the Revolutionary and Civil War they wanted to serve so badly that they disguised themselves as men. In 1917, without the right to even vote, nurses answered the call to duty during World War I, and served everywhere, including near the front lines in France," said Roberts. "Not only were there long hours and tedious care for the wounded and maimed, but they also had to deal with a 1918 flu epidemic that killed millions worldwide, and many of the nurses themselves."
Again, answering the call of duty during World War II, when the armed forces opened up the ranks to women and freed up men for battle. 77 nurses in the Pacific were taken prisoners of war. At Anzio, Italy, six army nurses died during German bombardments.
"In the mud of Korea, 70% of the army nurses served in a mobile Army surgical hospital better known as a MASH unit (Mobile Army Surgical Hospital)," said Roberts. "7,500 Army military women served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. Army Nurse, Lieutenant Sharon Lane, age 25, was killed during a rocket attack in Chulai, Vietnam. Seven others died in accidents and illnesses."
In 1990, 30,000 American women deployed for Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield. According to the USO, more than 300,000 women have served during the post 9-11 war, including Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
"More than 9,000 have earned their combat action badge. 16% of our nations armed forces are made up of women, 152 have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan," said Roberts. "Today, women command Navy vessels and combat units. They wear general and admiral stars, they fly, fighters, bombers, you name it. We thank them all today."
Athena Ezernack, US Air Force Veteran and Life Member, placed the Memorial Wreath in honor of all women veterans.
Taps was then presented by Post Commander Derrick Roberts.
