Osan Airmen, VFW dedicate wall to women's history

by 1st Lt. Kay M. Nissen
51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

3/24/2014 - OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Members of Osan Air Base teamed up with the local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post to make tribute to women in the military March 21.

The highest ranking military female in the Republic of Korea, Rear Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti, attended the event as the key note speaker and ceremoniously dedicated a wall to women in the service.

"In order for our military to attract and retain the best and brightest service members, the nation requires the contributions of both men and women in our ranks," said Franchetti, who also serves as commander of Naval Forces Korea. "When I reflect on this women's history month...I think about the men and women who fought for the right for every American to serve our nation in uniform."

VFW Post 10216 provided the means for Osan members to dedicate a wall to women in the service. Master Sgt. Karijean Hall, 51st Logistics Readiness Squadron Asset Management Section Chief, aided the VFW in completing the project.

"I was really excited when I was first approached about the subject of creating the wall," said Hall. "I think this was a great opportunity to highlight women's contributions to war effort and recognizing those women that also fought for freedom."

The central photo of the wall depicts President Harry Truman signing of the Women's Integration Act of 1948, which allowed women to permanently service in the armed forces. Other surrounding photos memorialize women that served in the Korean War.

"I also think about the women who served before me, those who mentored me and those I looked up to as role models because these women were the trailblazers on the long journey for more equality and expanded opportunities for women to serve in the U.S. military," said Franchetti. "All of us wearing the cloth of our nation today are benefactors of their service and their sacrifice. And through their contributions, we have become the strongest and the most capable military the world has ever known."

The wall dedication coincided with women's history month which is themed "Celebrating Women of Character, Courage and Commitment."