George W. Bush

“ Women today are following in the footsteps of pioneers such as Sarah Pierce, Emma Willard, Catherine Beecher, and Mary Lyon, who helped open the doors to higher education for women in our country. Their vision and determination changed America forever. Women today also join a long tradition of defending our Nation. During the Revolutionary War, Margaret Cochran Corbin fought as a gunner and was severely wounded at the battle of Fort Washington. Today, more than 200,000 women are serving in our Nation's Armed Forces and working to defend America and advance peace and freedom. ”

“ Women are leaders in American business, government, law, science, medicine, the arts, education, and many other fields. As mothers, sisters, and daughters, they bring compassion and integrity to our communities and help to teach our children the values that make our country great. ”