Governor Dunleavy proclaims Nov 9 as Women Veterans Day

Women have served honorably and courageously in all of America’s wars and conflicts since the American Revolution, but their service was traditionally left unrecognized.

As of 2022, there were approximately 1.67 million female veterans in the United States. Women make up the fastest growing group of veterans, and are projected to make up 18% of the veteran population by 2040.

In Alaska, which has the most veterans per capita, there are 13.3% female veterans, which is one of the highest percentages in the country. In 2022, there were 53,692 veterans in Alaska.

It is with those numbers in mind that Governor Mike Dunleavy proclaimed November 9 as Women Veterans Day.

“We are honored to pay tribute to and remember the American female veterans who have bravely and nobly served in the military in defense of our Nation, including all women veterans that call Alaska home, and we are proud of the contributions they make in our communities,” wrote the Governor in his proclamation.

Although women did not officially receive permanent military status until President Harry Truman signed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948, they have served and distinguished themselves in times of peace and war since the founding of the United States.

Here are some other facts about female veterans:

-The median age of female veterans is 51 years, which is 14 years younger than the median age of male veterans.

-In 2023, 68.6% of female veterans were White, 20.3% were Black or African American, and 10.3% were Hispanic or Latino.

-During World War II, Alaska women helped protect communities across the State, with some even flying aircraft for our Russian allies to use in the war effort.

-After September 11, 2001, more than 300,000 women deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan.

In 2000, the Alaska State Legislature officially recognized our Nation’s women veterans in Alaska Statute, declaring November 9 of each year to be Women Veterans Day, acknowledging women veterans’ countless contributions and increasing role in the military.

In his proclamation, Governor Dunleavy invited and encouraged all Alaskans to recognize and honor the valor and contributions of generations of American servicewomen and their families, who have proudly served our great State and Nation by safeguarding our land, people, freedoms, and legacy.

“We salute and remember the women who fearlessly served our Nation and honor them and their families for their service, sacrifice, and remarkable dedication to our Nation.”