Women Veterans Recognition Day is observed annually on June 12, and on Friday afternoon, the Erie VA Medical Center hosted a star-spangled celebration in honor of women who served.
Women from all branches of the U.S. Military, as well as their friends and family, came to this special gathering to recognize women’s continued contributions to the country.
EMTA celebrates 14th Fest, 60 years of service
Guests were able to enjoy food, drinks, and patriotic goodies before guest speakers made their remarks.
This date is significant because it commemorates the 1948 signing of the Women’s Armed Forces Integration Act, which allowed women to serve.
“We have some amazing trailblazers behind us who have really forged the way for our women today. And women are the fastest growing population in the veteran community; they’re serving in very high numbers,” said Maggie Westcott, a VA Medical Center Women’s Mental Health Champion.
“It is very nice to know that they celebrate women in the service,” said Mary Frisina, a U.S. Navy veteran.
Frisina said that when she started, women weren’t even allowed on the ships, and while she is happy to see the progress that was made, she stresses that new recruits are still blazing the trail.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.