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Greetings! May is a time of reflection, gratitude, and recognition as we observe National Military Appreciation Month. Throughout the month, we honor the courage and sacrifice of those who have served and continue to serve our country.
Memorial Day reminds us of those who gave their lives in service, while Military Spouse Appreciation Day recognizes the strength and sacrifices of military families, and Armed Forces Day celebrates the unity and dedication of all branches serving our nation. To those currently serving—thank you for your commitment and service. To the loved ones of those who are serving – thank you for all your support and sacrifices.
May is also a time to celebrate the rich diversity within our communities, including Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, as well as Haitian American and Jewish American Heritage Month. Women veterans are an essential part of this story. Leaders such as Major General Lisa J. Hou, the first Asian American to lead the New Jersey National Guard; Christine Angel Hughes, a Haitian American U.S. Coast Guard pilot who pursued her dream of flight; and Marita Silverman, a proud Jewish American veteran, exemplify the strength, resilience, and contributions of women in the military.
In addition, May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a reminder that caring for ourselves is just as important as caring for others. Prioritizing mental health can be challenging, but support is always available. If you or someone you love needs help, please reach out. You can connect with the Women Veterans Network (WVN) or our SAVE Team at 617-210-5743 for guidance and resources.
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Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1 (no VA enrollment required)
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Women Veterans Call Center: 855-829-6636
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Mass. Behavioral Health Help Line (24/7): Call or text 833-773-2445
- Additional health and wellness resources are available in the resource section of the WVN website.
As we move through this meaningful month, may we carry forward a spirit of appreciation, inclusion, and care—for our service members, our communities, and ourselves. By honoring the stories and sacrifices that connect us, and by supporting one another with compassion and understanding, we strengthen the foundation of resilience that defines us all. Together, let’s continue to uplift every voice, celebrate every contribution, and ensure that no one walks their journey alone.
And this month, the WVN will also host its annual conference in Norwood. Recently, the WVN’s Peggy Duffy-Shea sat down with Keynote Speaker Zeneta Adams, JD (pictured, above) to learn more about background and her advocacy on behalf of women veterans. You can watch the interview on YouTube. Zaneta made history as the first woman veteran, first woman, and first person of color to serve in a cabinet-level position in Michigan and later served as a presidential appointee at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
There’s still time to register for the WVN Conference! Reserve your spot today by visiting https://form.jotform.com/253566143078158. If you can't attend in person, we encourage you to attend some of the sessions virtually via Zoom (listed below).
In Solidarity,
Jessica Frost
WVN Director
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