Governor Proclaims March 20-24 as Women`s Military History Week

The Vietnam Women's Memorial Photo Courtesy: www.vietvet.org

(Salem) - Governor Kulongoski has signed a proclamation designating the week of March 20th-24th, as Women`s Military History Week in Oregon.

The week is dedicated to recalling, celebrating and saluting the many contributions of American women serving their country in uniform. For well over two centuries, in times of peace and war, generations of women have answered the call of duty, service and country. Since the beginning of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, between 28,000 and 37,000 female American servicemembers have been deployed annually to serve in harm`s way.

"Women`s military history is a story of inspiration and hope�of courage and tenacity," said Jim Willis, Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans` Affairs. "Throughout our nation`s proud military history, courageous women of the American armed forces have served with honor and distinction. They have earned acclaim for their volunteer and honorable military service, often in extremely dangerous situations."

"Today`s military women make up about one-sixth of the force. They are flying nearly every aircraft, commanding ships, and leading the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines of today`s fighting forces. We must continue to honor their service and never forget their sacrifices," Willis added.

President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation, in 1980, calling on the American people to remember the contributions of women. By 1987, 14 governors had declared March as Women`s History Month, and that same year, Congress and the President followed by declaring March as National Women`s History Month. Governor Kulongoski has also declared March 2006 as Women`s History Month in Oregon.

On March 23rd, women veterans from every branch of the service and of all ages and backgrounds will gather in Albany at the Linn County Expo Center for the bi-annual Oregon Women Veterans Conference.

There is no charge for the Conference, but seating is limited to the first 400 who call and register. To register, call toll free within Oregon, (800) 828-8801, ext. 2384 or 2385 and 2389, or dial direct, (503) 373-2384.

Conference check-in will begin on site at 8:00 AM.

The conference runs between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM. The Expo Center is located off of Interstate 5 at exit 234A in Albany.