Additional Coverage:
- Honoring women, the “forgotten” Vietnam veterans on Veterans Day (newsbreak.com)
Vietnam War’s “Forgotten Veterans”: Women Nurses
During the Vietnam War, around 7,000 American women served as nurses. Like soldier counterparts, they endured hardships and witnessed horrors, often working in understaffed hospitals.
Harrowing Experiences
Nancy Wells, an 85th and 71st Evacuation Hospital nurse, recalls endless streams of wounded soldiers and nightly red alerts. The constant threat of enemy fire and horrific injuries took a toll on her and her colleagues.
Limited Recognition
Upon returning home, these nurses faced a lack of recognition and support. They were excluded from veterans’ organizations like the VFW, and many struggled with PTSD and other war-related trauma.
Campaign for Recognition
In 1984, Diane Carlson Evans founded the Vietnam Women’s Memorial Foundation, advocating for a memorial to honor the nurses. The memorial was dedicated in 1993, recognizing their service and sacrifice.
Legacy and Healing
The Vietnam Women’s Memorial has become a symbol of healing and pride for these “forgotten veterans.” Today, they are celebrated in statewide events and annual gatherings at the memorial, marking a departure from the silence and shame they once endured.
Read More About This Story:
- Honoring women, the “forgotten” Vietnam veterans on Veterans Day (newsbreak.com)