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Women in Military Service for America Memorial Anniversary

Honor the brave women who have served our country on the anniversary of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial. Salute!

Saturday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEOctober 17

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYMilitary

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to honor the brave and courageous women who have served in the United States military on October 17 for Women in Military Service for America Memorial Anniversary! This day commemorates the establishment of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial, which opened its doors on Oct. 18, 1997. It serves as a tribute to all the women who have served or are currently serving in all branches of the U.S. armed forces. From nurses to pilots to combat soldiers, these women have made invaluable contributions and deserve to be recognized and celebrated. So let's take a moment to thank them and show our appreciation for their service and sacrifice.

TIMELINE

Women in Military Service for America Memorial Anniversary Timeline

Women's Armed Services Act

This act allowed women to become permanent, regular members of the armed services, acknowledging women's role in the military.

Women in Korean War

Over 50,000 women served in various roles during the Korean War, highlighting their contributions to war efforts.

Women Accepted into Service Academies

For the first time in history, women were accepted into the U.S. military academies marking a significant milestone.

Women in Gulf War

Almost 40,000 American military women served in Operation Desert Shield & Desert Storm, verifying women's crucial capacity in combat zones.

Inauguration of the Memorial

Women in Military Service for America Memorial was opened on October 18, 1997, honouring all the military women among every service branch.

Lifting of Combat Exclusion Policy

The U.S. Department of Defense lifted its ban on women in direct ground combat roles, underscoring the modern recognition of women’s capabilities in all areas of military service.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Women in Military Service for America Memorial Anniversary

Visit the memorial

The best way to honor the Women in Military Service for America is to visit the memorial in Washington D.C. and pay your respects to the brave women who have served our country.

ATTEND

Attend a commemorative event

Check for events happening on the anniversary and attend one to show your support and appreciation for women in the military.

WRITE

Write a thank-you letter

Take the time to write a thank-you letter or card to a woman who has served in the military. Let them know how much their sacrifice means to you and our country.

DONATE

Donate to a military charity

Support organizations that help women in the military by making a donation in their honor. It's a great way to give back and show your appreciation.

Share their stories

Take the time to learn about and share the stories of women in the military. This will help honor their service and raise awareness about their contributions to our country.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Women in Military Service for America Memorial Anniversary is Important

Inspires future generations of female service members

By commemorating the Women in Military Service for America Memorial Anniversary, we are also honoring the legacy of these women and inspiring future generations to continue their legacy of service. It serves as a reminder that women have always played an important role in the military and will continue to do so in the future.

Honors the sacrifices of women in the military

The Women in Military Service for America Memorial Anniversary is an important day to recognize and honor the sacrifices that women have made in service to their country. It is a reminder of the bravery and dedication of female service members, who have often faced unique challenges and discrimination in their roles.

Raises awareness of women's contributions in the military

This anniversary serves as a platform to educate and raise awareness about the significant contributions that women have made in the military throughout history. It highlights their bravery, leadership, and resilience, and promotes a more inclusive understanding of the military.

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