National Vet Girls RISE Day

National Vet Girls RISE Day is observed on February 19. This day serves to honor the nearly two million women who have served in the United States military, highlighting their unique experiences and the challenges they face when transitioning back to civilian life.

History of National Vet Girls RISE Day

The observance was founded in 2017 by Vet Girls RISE, an initiative under the organization Active Veterans With Answers. It was originally established as National Vet Girls ROCK Day before the name was updated to reflect a focus on the upward mobility and empowerment of female veterans. The day was created to address a specific void in the veteran community, as many women felt their military contributions were often overlooked or overshadowed by their male counterparts.

Historically, women have participated in American conflicts since the Revolutionary War, though they were often restricted to roles as nurses, cooks, or laundresses. It was not until the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948 that women were granted permanent status in the military. This holiday acknowledges that despite these centuries of service, female veterans frequently struggle with a lack of gender-specific resources and community support. By dedicating a specific day to these women, the founders aimed to build a professional and personal growth network that fosters lifelong camaraderie.

Why is National Vet Girls RISE Day important?

The primary importance of this day is the visibility it provides to a demographic that is often “invisible” in the public eye. Women veterans face distinct health and social issues, including higher rates of certain physical ailments and specific mental health triggers related to their service. By focusing on the “RISE” aspect—Resources, Insight, Support, and Empowerment—the day helps connect these women with the specialized benefits and care they earned through their dedication to national defense.

This day also emphasizes the power of collective experience. Many women veterans report a loss of sisterhood and identity upon leaving the armed forces. National Vet Girls RISE Day provides a structured opportunity for veterans to share their stories and mentor younger women who are currently serving or considering enlistment. It reinforces the idea that military service is a career path where women can lead, excel, and find permanent professional alliances that extend far beyond their time in uniform.

• It brings awareness to the specialized needs of nearly two million female veterans.
• The day provides a platform for women to share military-to-civilian transition resources.
• It celebrates the historical barriers women have broken in every branch of service.
• The observance fosters a sense of belonging and sisterhood among female service members.
• It encourages the public to recognize women as a vital part of the veteran community.

How to Celebrate National Vet Girls RISE Day

The most common way to participate is by attending a local meetup or social event specifically designed for women veterans. These gatherings are often hosted at restaurants or community centers to encourage relaxed conversation and the sharing of professional advice. If no local event is available, individuals can host virtual meetups or start local support groups to ensure that the female veterans in their area have a consistent network for peer-to-peer assistance.

For the general public, observing the day involves acknowledging the service of women in their lives and communities. This can be done by supporting veteran-owned businesses run by women or by donating to organizations that provide housing and healthcare for female veterans. Sharing educational information about the history of women in the military on social media using the official hashtag is another way to help spread the message and ensure these heroes receive the recognition they deserve.

• Attend an official meetup at a designated local restaurant or community hub.
• Post a tribute to a woman veteran you know to raise public awareness.
• Join an online forum or social media group dedicated to female veteran support.
• Donate to charities that provide gender-specific medical care for veterans.
• Wear items or colors that signify support for women in the armed forces.

National Vet Girls RISE Day Dates Table