Marcia Albright

The Women Marines, formally known as the United States Marine Corps Women's Reserve, was established in February 1943 during World War II to allow women to serve in non-combat roles and free men for combat duty. Over 20,000 women enlisted during the war, performing crucial tasks such as clerical work, communications, logistics, and more. After the war, the Women's Armed Services Integration Act of 1948 allowed women to serve as permanent, regular members of the Marine Corps. Since then, Women Marines have continued to break barriers, serving in an ever-expanding range of roles, including combat positions, and playing a vital part in the Corps' mission.