Women’s History Month concludes

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Chase Hedrick
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  April has arrived, meaning the celebrations of the 2011 Women's History Month has ended.

Throughout March Columbus Air Force Base joined the rest of the nation in observing the Women's History Month "Our History is Our Strength."

The committee responsible for planning the month successfully executed many events for Team BLAZE to participate in.

Articles published in issues of the Silver Wings throughout the month featured remarkable women of the past, views on women's history, and celebrations of women in the military were written by several members of the committee: Tech. Sgt. Erica Solis, 14th Medical Support Squadron. Staff Sgt. Aubrey Durkin, 14th Medical Support Squadron. Staff Sgt. Kareema Palmer, 14th Medical Operations Squadron. Staff Sgt. Nathalie Moreano, 14th Medical Support Squadron.

Tales were told at a lunch and learn of women such as Molly Pitcher who participated in the Battle of Monmouth in 1778 when her husband was wounded and was granted the rank of sergeant by then Gen. George Washington.

A movie night gathered friends and families at the landings to learn about the battles fought by feminine activists to give women the right to vote.

Fairs were organized in front of the base's Exchange to spread awareness of women's health.

The month was capped by a standing room only Women's History Month Breakfast with guest speaker Senior Master Sgt. Veronica Spears, 14th Security Forces superintendent.

Sergeant Spears talked about the advancements made in women's involvement within the military and in particular the Air Force. She spoke in particular about women were heavily restricted to only serving in certain positions, and her own views on women in combat today.

"So as you can see women started paving the road a long time ago for other women in fighting for the limited roles in their professions," said Sergeant Spears.

She also talked about the first time opportunity she had as the first female assigned to flying on the Air Force One for presidential support. She went on to remind the audience of the possibility of a female president, and suggested the first female Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force could be in the room that day.

"So with the paths women have made and the doors of opportunity opening I'm sure a female will make one or more of the above positions."

While March may be over, the Women's History Month events at Columbus Air Force Base left something for it to be remembered by, by all.