Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Merritt, Eighth Army Command Sergeant Major, delivers a speech during Women's History Month Observance at Dragon Hill Lodge, Yongsan Garrison. Merritt highlighted the importance of same military opportunities and women's cru...
U.S. ARMY GARRISON YONGSAN, South Korea - Eighth Army hosted a 2017 Women's History Month Observance on March 31, commemorating the long history of women's roles in the U.S. Army.
Women's History Month began in 1981 to highlight contributions of women in society. Today the month is marked by a Presidential proclamation and ceremonies held throughout the U.S. and military bases around the world.
In his official proclamation of Women's History Month, Commander-in-Chief Donald J. Trump highlighted the sacrifices of women. "We pause to pay tribute to the remarkable women who prevailed over enormous barriers, paving the way for women of today to not only participate in but to lead and shape every facet of American life."
The observance started with welcome remarks by Sgt.1st Class Shtina Love followed by the Korean and U.S. National Anthems performed by the Seoul American Middle School Choir.
Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Merritt, Eighth Army Command Sergeant Major, recognized the vital role of women in the history of Eighth Army such as female nurses during the Korean War.
The featured speaker of the USAG-Yongsan event was Maj. Lisa Jaster, an Army Reserve Soldier notable for being one of three female graduates of the U.S. Army Ranger School.
In her speech, Jaster urged the audience to look past gender stereotypes.
"I want to be recognized as a Ranger, not a female Ranger," said Jaster. "Delete the adjective and show the equal competence and capabilities of women in the military."
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