The Meaning of Women’s Veterans Day
June 12 marks the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948. Having served for many years in the Army, I can attest to the great and profound impact women in our armed forces have had. Women Warriors have overcome much over the past 30 years, both in and out of the military. Thankfully, the Armed Services has recognized the power of female contribution and opened female opportunities to all MOSs.
Annie Get Your Guns
As of 2022, women account for 21% of all firearm sales nationally, up from 12% in 2005. Women are making an enormous impact on the sport shooting scene. A Girl & A Gun Women’s Shooting League, founder Julianna Crowder, firearms instructor and military spouse, has personally seen the incredible growth of women’s interest in firearms and competition shooting. The League, which began as three chapters in Texas back in 2011, is now a nationwide organization that generates opportunities for women and girls in shooting sports.
Female veterans have no doubt inspired a new generation of women with respect to firearms. Not only have sales of firearms to the female population grown but so has female attendance in gun safety classes and at firing ranges.
Female Veterans Making History
A U.S. Army Recruiting Command press release announced that Staff Sergeant Rachel Tozier of the U.S. Amry Marksmanship Unit has qualified in Olympic Trap for the 2024 Paris Games during the USA Shooting’s Shotgun Olympic Trials. Tozier beat 49 other competitors for her Olympic berth after winning the Olympic Trials Final.*1
