Assemblyman Lavine: Assembly Passes Resolutions Honoring Women Veterans

Assemblyman Charles D. Lavine (D-Glen Cove) announced the Assembly passed resolutions celebrating the distinguished service of New York's women veterans. One resolution declares June 12, 2008 as "Women Veterans' Recognition Day" and commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Women's Armed Service Integration Act (K.1957).

"Today, New York recognizes the brave women of our armed forces - the women who selflessly and repeatedly answered the nation's calls to action," Assemblyman Lavine said.

The ceremony, hosted at the State Capitol, honored women veterans from across New York State. Women veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan received special recognition.

"Women have played an invaluable and indispensable role in our nation's military campaigns," Assemblyman Lavine said. "These unsung heroes have valiantly fought for the freedom we take for granted - and often paid the price for it. New York is forever grateful for their contribution."

The Women's Armed Services Integration Act, enacted on June 12, 1948, radically changed the military outlook for women. For the first time, women could enlist as permanent, regular members of the armed forces. Prior to the groundbreaking legislation, nursing was the only full-time option for women seeking military careers. ¹

"New York will not forget these courageous women," Assemblyman Lavine said. "I will continue to work to ensure they receive all the help and recognition they deserve."

The Assembly also passed a resolution (K.1852) urging Congress to pass the Women Veterans Healthcare Improvement Act of 2008 - a measure to expand and improve health care services for women veterans, particularly those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Women currently make up 14 percent of U.S. troops.²