JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Joint Base Charleston celebrated Women’s History Month in March with a series of events designed to highlight not only the history of women, but their current contributions to both the military, the workforce and society.
Among the activities to honor women at Joint Base Charleston were an all-female retreat ceremony, a career day geared toward female high school students, a powerful guest speaker at a celebratory luncheon and a C-17 Globemaster III incentive flight with an all-female crew.
“Both JBC and the Air Force as a whole do an excellent job putting on events and tributes that celebrate us women who serve,” said Staff Sgt. Victoria Medina, 628th Force Support Squadron base honor guard assistant NCOIC. “To me, that shows that big Air Force recognizes us women as the valuable asset to the mission that we truly are. It’s especially humbling that I got the opportunity to not only be a part of the retreat ceremony this month, but to also serve alongside all of my fellow sisters every day.”
After being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, an American non-profit organization dedicated to honoring and preserving women’s history, Congress declared March as ‘National Women’s History Month’ in 1987.
“It’s really inspiring to learn about the history of the women of our past and present,” said Janiya Nowell, an R.B. Stall High School student who attended the career day March 19, 2019. “They’re the reason we are where we are today in the world, so it’s important we continue to celebrate and remember them.”
Women’s History Month is celebrated during March in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, corresponding with International Women’s Day on March 8, and during October in Canada, corresponding with the celebration of Persons Day on October 18.
"Male or female, understand and know your worth," said Col. Mary L. Martin, Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute commandant, speaking at a celebratory luncheon March 18, 2019, at the base chapel. "We need to make sure we're all looking out for each other because we do so much better, as men and women, standing together. Listening, lifting and loving are the true makings of good teamwork, partnerships and community involvement. Never forget to be appreciative of those in your circle, on your team, and especially your spouses or significant others. We've come a long way over the years and that's because of teamwork."