Women Veterans Recognition Day held at State House

State House – House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Samuel A. Azzinaro and Senate Special Legislation & Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Walter S. Felag yesterday hosted Women Veterans Recognition Day at the State House in conjunction with the Providence VA Offices and the Rhode Island Office of Veterans Services. The event was open to the public and held in the rotunda of the State House.

“The contributions and sacrifices women have made to our armed forces and the American citizenry is well documented and I am confident in stating that the history of our country would be far different, and not for the better, without the commitment, selflessness and bravery exhibited by our women veterans while they served our country and the world,” said Chairman Azzinaro (D-Dist. 37, Westerly).

“I want to recognize the brave women who have valiantly served this country in the all of the armed services. To the women of each era of military conflict represented here today: thank you for your service. Our nation owes you a debt of gratitude which words cannot adequately express,” said Chairman Felag (D-Dist. 10, Warren, Bristol, Tiverton).

“It’s an honor to recognize my sisters and fellow female veterans. Our dedication to serve our country burns just as bright as our enlisted men and our contributions to defending our country and the world are incalculable. To each of my fellow female veterans, thank you for your selflessness and thank you for your service,” said Rep. Camille Vella-Wilkinson (D-Dist. 21, Warwick).

Lt. Col. Erin K. Berard, USMC Commanding Officer from the Marine Detachment of Naval Station Newport delivered the keynote address at the event. Representative Vella-Wilkinson, a Navy veteran, delivered the closing remarks.