EXHIBITIONS
The Military Women’s Memorial offers virtual experiences of select in-person exhibits, online versions of some of our special exhibits, as well as virtual-only content here.
VIRTUAL EXHIBITS
THE COLOR OF FREEDOM: HONORING THE DIVERSITY OF AMERICA’S SERVICEWOMEN
Born during a time when our country seeks healing amid persistent calls to dismantle systemic racism, this exhibit seeks to highlight the diversity of women of color in the nation’s defense.
NURSES IN THE SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR
This virtual exhibit illustrates the vital role of contract nurses in the Spanish-American War. These nurses laid the groundwork for the creation of the Army Nurse Corps which later paved the way for the full participation of servicewomen in the nation’s defense.
THE CHANGING FACE OF COURAGE
The Changing Face of Courage is a collection of watercolor paintings produced by artist Dave Rappaport that portray contemporary women serving in the U.S. military. Based on subjects found in photographs taken almost entirely from public domain sources, the portraits depict servicewomen working in a wide variety of occupations—from medic to aviator to mechanic.
50th Anniversary of Women at the Service Academies
In 2026, we commemorate the 50th anniversary of women’s admission to the United States military service academies—a pivotal moment in our Nation’s history. Established to develop leaders of character for the Armed Forces, the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy have long prepared cadets and midshipmen for lives of service and leadership. Although the 1948 Women’s Armed Services Integration Act secured women a permanent place in the military, it was not until October 7, 1975—when Public Law 94-106 was signed—that women were admitted to these academies, beginning with the Class of 1980. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy led the way, admitting 15 women in 1974. Over the past five decades, these trailblazers have forged a legacy of courage, excellence, and leadership that continues to shape our Armed Forces today.
52 Years of Women at USMMA
In 1974, the United States Merchant Marine Academy led the way in opening its doors to women, admitting 15 female midshipmen a full year before federal legislation mandated the change at other service academies. This milestone preceded the 1975 signing of Public Law 94-106, which extended eligibility to women at USMA, USNA, USAFA, and USCGA.
We honor USMMA’s historic leadership in admitting women in 1974, a milestone celebrated with the 50th anniversary of women at USMMA in 2024.
