Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO) Adm. Michelle Howard spoke with members of the Women in Defense (WID), a national security organization, during a ceremony at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, June 18.

WID presents its "Service to the Flag Award" to members who have served national defense and security, military service members, and members who have facilitated partnerships between industry and the military.

The recipients are generally exemplary members of the organization who have had distinguished careers in their respective fields.

Howard recognized the accomplishments and difficulties of past women in service and the important role they have played in American history.

"Women have a rich and proud history of service," said Howard. "That service has been wrought with obstacles and sometimes outright opposition. Sometimes women have had to fight to be allowed to defend the nation -- they had to fight just to be able to fight."

Founded in 1979, WID serves as a network to assist women in expanding their knowledge of national security issues and the national defense community, providing women a formal environment for professional growth through networking, education, and career development.

Addressing an audience made up of defense and security professionals from across the nation, Howard noted the history of our nation is often told in men's voices, but that there is more to the story.

"We often hear of the 'Fathers of the Revolution,'" said Howard. "But those weren't the only voices present. Our mothers and sisters and aunts and daughters were just as vital to America's call to independence."

Howard went on to acknowledge some notable women who have had to overcome obstacles in their pursuit of service to the flag.

Capt. Heidi Berg, currently serving as a naval intelligence officer; Kady Brownell, one of about 250 women who fought during the Civil War; Lt. Susan Ahn, a Korean-American who would not be denied the opportunity to serve her nation during World War II despite opposition due to her race; and Rear Adm. Grace Hopper, who served as a mathematician, physicist, computer scientist, and innovator of her gender and generation.

"They represent a legacy that stretches back to the beginning of America," Howard said of these women. "I am honored to be a part of this heritage, women both in the military and women civilians in defense. They have contributed to a free America. Women throughout our history have endeavored to serve the flag, not looking for special treatment, prestigious awards, or financial wealth, but merely for the opportunity to serve the flag itself and the great nation it represents."