Six local women who served their country in the military will be recognized later this week when the Progressive Women’s Association hosts its annual “Celebrate American Women of Distinction” luncheon.

The event is scheduled for noon on Friday, June 26, and will honor local female military veterans for their service and contributions to the community.

This year’s honorees represent generations of women who answered the call to serve, often in eras when female military service received less public recognition than it does today. Photographs provided by the association show six veterans whose military careers and personal stories will be highlighted during the luncheon.

Betty Waddy of the Progressive Women’s Association said the organization selected female veterans as the focus of this year’s event to recognize the sacrifices, dedication and leadership demonstrated by women in uniform.

“We normally celebrate American Women of Distinction in June, but in keeping with the city’s celebration of the 250th, we chose to collaborate with the city and integrate our event to honor women and veterans,” she said.

The luncheon is part of the association’s annual “Celebrate American Women of Distinction” program, which highlights women whose accomplishments have made a positive impact on their communities.

“The veterans were selected by nominations of the community and various local organizations as the VFW and others affiliated with the military,” Waddy said.

Waddy said honoring female veterans provides an opportunity to acknowledge a group whose military contributions have historically been overlooked, while also educating younger generations about the important roles women have played in defending the nation.

“It is important for the community to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of women who have served in the military. It revises historical blind spots, provides role models for future generations to come and allows communities to identify and address healthcare and any transitional needs of female veterans.”

The event is expected to feature tributes to each honoree, with attendees learning about their military service and personal journeys. Organizers hope the program will foster a deeper appreciation for the challenges and achievements of women veterans and inspire community members through their examples of service and perseverance.

“Our hope is the attendees will take home a deeper inspiration, expanded perspective, sense of gratitude, and a more community connection hearing firsthand accounts of the resilience, bravery, and leadership under pressure,” Waddy said.