Press Release: 2025-03-13 00:00:00

Governor Healey Unveils Exhibition Celebrating Women Veterans and Legacy of Former Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers

 



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:



3/12/2025



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Karissa Hand, Press Secretary



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Call Karissa Hand, Press Secretary at 617-725-4025



Two easels with posters describing the exhibit and four mannequins with old military uniforms between the two posters on easels



BOSTON — In celebration of Women’s History Month, Governor Maura Healey unveiled an exhibition, in partnership with the Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) and 3-5-0 Girls, displaying uniforms of Women's Army Corps (WAC) from World War II through 1978 when the WAC was integrated into the Army. The uniforms represent veterans of the Women's Army Corps, first introduced and championed by former Massachusetts Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers. The exhibit also highlights many of the women stationed at Massachusetts military installations like Fort Devens, Bedford Army Air Field (now Hanscom Air Force base) and Westover Field.  



Former Congresswoman Rogers served in the U.S House of Representatives from 1925 to 1960 in what was Massachusetts’ 5th District stretching from Lowell to Groton to Ayer. Congresswoman Rogers was instrumental in shaping policies that provided veterans with essential support. Notably, she played a pivotal role in establishing the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (which became the WAC in 1943) and advocated for benefits for women veterans. Congresswoman Rogers’ advocacy for veterans and women's rights helped create a pathway for women to serve in the military while ensuring they receive the proper recognition and benefits for their service. 



“Here in Massachusetts, we are proud to honor the women who have served our country with honor, courage and distinction,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This exhibition will highlight their incredible service and the role of former Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers, who laid the foundation for a more inclusive military and for women veterans to get the recognition they deserve.”



“This exhibition is more than homage to the women veterans – it’s a celebration of the women who have served our country with bravery and honor,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “As we highlight their stories, we are reminded that their patriotism knows no bounds and, here in this state, we will honor and shine a light on their contributions to our history.



Since taking office, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has prioritized revitalizing veterans' services in Massachusetts. In March 2023, Governor Healey established the state’s Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) and appointed Jon Santiago as the Commonwealth’s first-ever Secretary of Veterans Services to spearhead the transformation of a cabinet-level secretariat focused on veteran care. Over the past two years, EOVS has overhauled operations and existing programs to redefine how veterans are cared for in Massachusetts, including expanding the Women Veterans Network (WVN)—a statewide initiative designed to connect, support, and uplift women veterans through tailored resources, outreach, and community-building.



“Women have stepped up to serve their country since the Revolutionary War, yet their contributions have often gone unrecognized. This exhibition is an important reminder of their service and sacrifice—but it’s also a call to action,” said Secretary Jon Santiago of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services. “At EOVS, we are committed to ensuring women veterans get the recognition, resources, and support they deserve—today and every day.”



3-5-0 Girls is a local women- and veteran-led organization based in the MetroWest area, named in honor of the 350,000 women who served during World War II. Their mission is to make women's military history visible and accessible through living history, their traveling exhibit, presentations and lectures, community outreach, and hosting public events.



“3-5-0 Girls’ mission is to make Women’s Military history visible and accessible and to give it context within the larger tale of history,” said Executive Director of the 3-5-0 Girls Mel Bloom. “Now, more than ever, it is important to remember that these women blazed a trail that thousands, including myself, have followed to proud military service."