Letter to the Editor, submitted to Louisville’s Courier Journal, Nov 12, 2017
Unfair and Dismissive Treatment of Women Veterans
by Carol Trainer, Chapter 168
Veterans Day has come and gone once again, and once again I have had to continue the struggle and speak out to give female veterans equal recognition as their male counterparts. Since my USAF service from 1965-68, I have learned to speak out loudly against this discrimination and omission, and have had to do so too many times over the years. It angers and frustrates me. A few years ago on the Memorial Day celebration, an Army Lt. Col. guest speaker was waxing eloquent on the service of the men and boys. I raised my hand, and while pointing at him, I found a voice to say "Don't forget the women!" It surprised him to be interupted, but I could not remain silent about the omission of women's contributions. He later apologized to me. I hope he learned a lesson on inclusiveness.
Yesterday, while in the dining room on our last day of a cruise, in Puerto Rico, one of the employees reminded everyone that it was Veterans Day and that everyone should stop to remember the service of our fathers, brothers and sons..." I could not believe it. Once more, no mention of women. So being who I am, I stood up and in a loud, firm voice I said "...And the Mothers, Sisters, Daughters! We served too. Don't forget the women!"
During our travels yesterday, Harold and I saw thousands of people. He was wearing his Vietnam Vet hat and got quite a few recognitions of his service. Standing next to him wearing my Veterans For Peace visor, I received zero recognitions of my service. It's not that i want personal recognition for my service. I'd personally be happy if I never heard a 'thank you for your service' again. But, to totally omit and forget the service, dedication and contributions all the women who served beside the men, is morally wrong. I will continue to be angered and will continue to speak out. It is a long struggle.