Often times we take for granted how far we have come as a nation when it comes to women and war. The very first woman on record that was injured during battle was Margaret Corbin who bravely took her husband's place at his cannon during the Battle of Monmouth in 1778. She was injured during battle and taken captive by the British in 1779 and sent home. She was the first woman to receive federal pension given to a woman wounded during battle.
Over 220 years ago women began to serve in the military. They were not entitled to the same benefits as the men. If they were killed there weren't eligible for a military burial. If they are taken by the enemy there was no negotiator there to fight for them.
We have come a long way, but we have a long way to go. For instance women continue to struggle with body armor designed for a man. Women experience chafing, bleeding and bruising and often loosen the armor to compensate for their breasts often leaving dangerous gaps. The Pentagon recently donated $15 million for the development of body armor designed for women. Seriously, 222 years to come to that conclusion?
I believe that we should all do our part to make a difference, supporting our military. These men and women are giving me the right today to speak my mind, go to church if I choose, get an education. They see everyday what happens to people that are being ruled by fear.
This blog is dedicated to Sgt. Donna Johnson a fallen heroine. Her life will be celebrated this weekend in Raeford, N.C. To her family we offer our sincere condolences.
