Governor Lamont Signs Legislation Designating National Women Veterans Recognition Day

Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has signed into law legislation (Public Act 25-20) designating June 12 of each year in Connecticut as National Women Veterans Recognition Day to recognize the significant contributions of women who bravely and honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

June 12 was the date selected for this designation because it commemorates the anniversary of the signing by President Harry S. Truman of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948, which authorized the enlistment of women as permanent members of all branches of the military. Several other states across the U.S. have also recently adopted similar designations to recognize the importance of the anniversary.

“Women veterans have honorably served the United States for decades, and designating this day will serve as a strong reminder about the contributions of women in our Armed Forces and honor those who have so bravely served this country,” Governor Lamont said. “Any time that we can bring attention to veterans who have served our country and the issues they face is worth doing. It is an honor for me to sign this bill into law.”

“The service of women veterans has been overlooked, underrecognized, and too often forgotten,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “Public Act 25-20 takes one more step in helping change that, by telling women veterans across Connecticut that we see them, and we care. It’s a long overdue acknowledgement for women who have always answered the call to serve, sometimes without the same supports offered to their male counterparts. I look forward to future celebrations of National Women Veterans Recognition Day.”

“Thank you to our chief elected officials for passing Public Act 25-20 during this legislative session,” Connecticut Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ronald P. Welch said. “Sadly, our Connecticut women served in the shadows until the June 12, 1948, when the Women’s Armed Service Integration Act was signed enabling you to become permanent members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. This all after 350,000 women had joined and served in World War II, including service by Coast Guard members. The twelfth of June now recognizes our Connecticut women veterans who have made tremendous contributions and sacrifices in both peace and war in securing and defending our great State of Connecticut and country.”

“On National Women Veterans Recognition Day, we honor the generations of women who have worn our nation’s uniform with courage, distinction, and unwavering dedication,” Major General Fran Evon, adjutant general and commander of the Connecticut National Guard, said. “Their service has strengthened our military, inspired our communities, and paved the way for future leaders. The Connecticut National Guard is proud to stand on the shoulders of these trailblazers and remains committed to fostering a force that reflects their resilience, strength, and legacy.”

The legislation was approved by a vote of 146 to 2 in the House of Representatives and a vote of 35 to 0 in the Senate. It went into effect immediately upon receiving the governor’s signature.