The Deborah Sampson Award honors a Massachusetts female veteran who has demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to supporting fellow women veterans. Presented annually by the Executive Office of Veterans Services Women Veterans Network, this award recognizes those who advocate for, uplift, and empower women in the veteran community.
2025 Deborah Sampson Award- Nominations Open Now!
Know a remarkable woman veteran making a difference? Nominate her today!
The deadline to submit a nomination is April 25, 2025.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, the nominee must:
- Be a women veteran residing in Massachusetts
- Have served on active duty in the U.S. Military, Reserves, or National Guard.
How to Nominate
When submitting a nomination, please include:
- Military Service Overview- Branch, years of service, awards, and contributions to advancing opportunities for women in the military.
- Personal Sacrifices and Challenges - Describe any personal sacrifices or adversity the nominee has had to overcome during her time in service.
- Impact on Women Veterans - Describe her mentorship, community service, veteran organization, and advocacy efforts.
- Why the candidate deserves special merit - What sets the nominee apart as a leader and role model? Please be specific.
Deborah Sampson: The Legacy Behind the Award
Deborah Sampson defied expectations and broke barriers as one of the first women to serve in the U.S. military—disguising herself as a man to fight in the Revolutionary War. Her courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to service set the stage for generations of women in uniform. Learn more about her incredible story and lasting legacy.
Past Honorees
These honorees have made lasting contributions to the veteran community, advocating for women in uniform and beyond. Their stories of resilience, leadership, and service continue to inspire and empower. Take a moment to learn about these remarkable women and their impact on the lives of female veterans across Massachusetts.