George Herbert Walker Bush

“ During the half century since World War II, women have continued to be an invaluable part of our Nation's armed forces. From Korea and Vietnam to places such as Panama and the Persian Gulf, American service women have consistently demonstrated the extraordinary courage, patriotism, and skill that we have come to expect of this country's military personnel. ”

“ Earlier this year, some 35,000 American service women played highly visible roles in ensuring the success of our military operations in the Persian Gulf. While we celebrate their outstanding contributions—and those of their counterparts here at home and at bases around the world—we do well to remember that women have been an invaluable part of the United States Armed Forces for generations. ”

“ Over the years, the number of women in our armed forces has steadily increased. Today nearly one and one quarter million women stand among our Nation's veterans. This week, we proudly and gratefully salute each of them. ”