Sailors assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) celebrated Women’s History Month on the barge mess deck on March 26, 2019 in Mayport, Fla.

After many years of fighting for equal rights, Women’s History Month was founded in 1985. Although it was a big step for women everywhere, including the military, they are still progressing to this day.

“Women's History Month provides us the opportunity to highlight trailblazers who have achieved excellence in spite of discrimination and stereotypes,” said Personnel Specialist Senior Chief Errilyn S. Reaves “It teaches us that women have a long history of fighting for respect and equal rights, but there are still some challenges we need to overcome. It is important to celebrate Women's History Month in the military because we have amazing women in our military service that are hardworking, dedicated and make sacrifices each and every day in our line of work. Their accomplishments help transform how people view women.”

Katie Jeffries, an anchor at First Coast News, was a guest speaker at the celebration. She spoke about many women that have overcome obstacles and made a difference, such as Henrietta Dozier, the first female architect in Jacksonville, Fla. She also spoke about Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency, known as the WAVES, and their contributions in World War II. WAVES worked in the aviation community, and fields such as medical, science, technology, and communications. Their contributions proved that men and women could work together to win a war.

“I love being able to look out in the audience and see the faces of women and men getting along in a sense of community,” said Jeffries. “I always think it’s great to see people come together for the common good. I love that the Iwo Jima is profiling Women’s History Month and sharing those stories because I think it is very important for everyone to know that history.”

The Multicultural Heritage Committee on board USS Iwo Jima organized and brought the celebration to life. One of its primary duties is recognizing all of the different months of diversity.

 “I think it is important to pay attention to all the cultures that go into building this Naval vessel,” said Aviation Ordnance 1st Class Ralph Brooks, president of the Multicultural Heritage Committee. “People come from a whole bunch of different cultures, and we have to learn how to deal with the diversity. By bringing awareness to people’s cultures, it will give us a better understanding of how to adapt and how to work together in a peaceful environment.”

This event brought Sailors together to honor the hard working women who day to day serve our country all around the world.  

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