Patrick-Murray Administration Proclaims "Women Veterans Week"

BOSTON — The Patrick-Murray Administration today announced that November 1 – 7, 2009, will be "Women Veterans Week" in the Commonwealth. The proclamation, signed October 27, 2009 by Governor Deval Patrick and Secretary of the Commonwealth William Galvin, urges citizens of the Commonwealth to recognize the event and participate in honoring women veterans.

"This week we honor and salute those who have served our country throughout the generations with honor, patriotism and courage," said Governor Patrick in his proclamation. "It is appropriate that all Massachusetts citizens remember the bravery of those women who served their country so that their dedication and sacrifices serve as a reminder of the cost of our freedom."

The Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services works diligently everyday to honor women veterans in the Commonwealth through the great work of the Women Veterans' Network. There are over 28,000 women veterans in Massachusetts, from World War II veterans to the women serving today in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. The Network provides women veterans with information on federal, state and local benefits, while expanding awareness of the needs of women veterans and identifying available health and human resources to meet those needs. Massachusetts continues to be a leader in offering comprehensive benefits and services to its veterans and leads the nation in its service and advocacy on behalf of women veterans.

"I am honored to recognize our brave women veterans who have served so we can live in a greater and safer nation," said Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray, Chair of the Governor's Advisory Council on Veterans' Services. "I hope this proclamation increases awareness of the great sacrifice and service women of the armed forces make every day."

"Women have served our country honorably through their military service since the American Revolution," said Secretary of Veterans' Services Tom Kelley. "Today, women account for 15 percent of the armed forces, more than ever before, while playing increasingly significant roles in the Global War on Terror. Next week, we will honor veterans all over the world, this week we will give women veterans the appropriate, and overdue, recognition they deserve."

The proclamation of "Women Veterans Week" comes as the Department of Veterans' Services Women Veterans' Network readies to host its Fifth Annual "Women are Veterans Too!" event on Thursday, November 5, at the State House. The event celebrates women's service in the military and honors the "Outstanding Woman Veteran of the Year."

# # #