# What This Bill Does

This is a symbolic resolution expressing the House of Representatives' support for designating June 12, 2024, as "Women Veterans Appreciation Day." It's important to understand what this actually means: this isn't a law that creates new programs, changes benefits, or requires any government action. It's essentially an official statement of recognition and respect for women who have served in the military.

The resolution highlights some important facts about women in the military. Women have served in the U.S. Armed Forces since before they were officially allowed to—some disguised as men during the Revolutionary War and Civil War, and later as nurses in the World Wars. Today, women make up about 17 percent of active-duty military personnel, with higher percentages in the Air Force and Navy (21 percent each). The resolution notes that there are now over 2 million women veterans in the country, making women the fastest-growing group in the veteran population. It also acknowledges a serious issue: about one in three women veterans who use VA healthcare report experiencing military sexual trauma during their service.

The resolution chose June 12 specifically because that's the anniversary of when President Truman signed the Women's Armed Services Integration Act in 1948, which for the first time allowed women to serve as permanent members of the Armed Forces. By designating this day for appreciation, Congress is essentially saying it wants to recognize women veterans' contributions and encourage them to share their stories through programs like the Veterans History Project.

In practical terms, this resolution doesn't change anything about veterans' benefits, healthcare, or services. It's a gesture of recognition that may raise awareness about women's military contributions, but it carries no legal force or funding requirements.

Expressing support for the designation of June 12, 2024, as "Women Veterans Appreciation Day".

Kiggans, Jennifer A.

<p>This resolution expresses support for the designation of Women Veterans Appreciation Day to recognize the service and sacrifices of women veterans.</p>