LARGO, Fla. — Dozens of women veterans gathered in Largo for the second annual Women Veterans Relaxation Day, an event designed to connect veterans from across Tampa Bay with each other and with local resources.
Connie White, an Army veteran from Dover, said this kind of event is needed.
“We don’t get to relax a lot. We don’t get to just think about ourselves and enjoy ourselves, and that’s what is important,” she said.
White served in the U.S. Army for 20 years and said she takes pride in her service, though her path was not always easy.
“When I was a first sergeant, I had to fight my way because the guys thought they should have had it other than I did,” White said.
Organizer Kelly James said the event is a collaboration between local VAs and Empath Health. She said bringing women veterans together helps reduce isolation and creates space for shared understanding.
“When you socialize veterans, it takes away from isolation, and it brings them united,” James said. “It’s somebody who will absolutely understand each other because of what they’ve been through and that they’ve served their country.”
The event drew about 200 people this year, up from 140 in its first year. Organizers said they hope to reach 300 attendees next year, when the event is planned for Tampa.
White said events like this help recognize the service and accomplishments of women veterans.
“The community is finally realizing we’re out there and we’re not going away,” White said.