Celebrating International Women’s Day!
Author: Julianna Cooper, Challenge America Program Coordinator
Today is a particularly special day for us here at Challenge America - International Women’s Day!
We are delighted to share in the celebration of the incredible, powerful, selfless women in the world and in the Challenge America community, specifically, who have served and sacrificed for us all. To the women in the Challenge America community, you amaze us in so many ways! Your dedication and service to this country and fellow men and women, your artistry and creativity, your ability to connect with each other and build camaraderie within this platform - the list is endless.
You inspire us daily, and for that, we are forever grateful.
In the spirit of empowering and celebrating women today, we want to share a few fun facts, spotlights, and resources centered around women Veterans. We hope you enjoy these tidbits, and then go forth to celebrate your fellow women Veterans today!
Famous Women Veteran Artists:
Did you know that actress and comedian Bea Arthur was also a Veteran?
Before she took to Broadway stages and became a beloved Golden Girl, Bernice Frankel, better known today as Bea Arthur, joined thousands of other women paving the way for women in the armed forces. On February 18, 1943, just five days after the Marine Corps began recruiting women, young Bernice Frankel went to enlist, and on February 20, 1943, Bernice Frankel joined the ranks of the Marine Corps as Private Frankel. She spent 1944 and 1945 at USMCAS (US Marine Corps Air Station) Cherry Point, North Carolina, where she worked as a driver and a dispatcher. Upon her discharge in September 1945, Arthur had reached the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Before she was a celebrity chef and Food Network host, Sunny Anderson served in the US Air Force
Anderson grew up as an Army brat, moving around the world as her parents actively served in the military. She states that this experience allowed her to sample many local cuisines with her parents who were enthusiastic in learning about international cuisines. After graduating high school, Anderson joined the Air Force in June 1993, serving as a military radio host in Seoul, South Korea. She then worked for Air Force News Agency radio and television in San Antonio from 1993 to 1997. Anderson was honorably discharged from the Air Force in June 1997 as a senior airman.
“Proudly She Served” - Portrait Collection of Women Veterans
We wanted to spotlight this beautiful collection of portraits of women Veterans, part of the “Proudly She Served” collection by artist Steve Alpert. His blog post shares the story behind his journey of painting these incredible women and learning about their stories.
Supporting Women Veterans with your Business!
We would like to spotlight two women Veteran owned businesses and would love for you to check them out!
⭐️ Honest Soul Yoga - This yoga studio is an online yoga studio that offers a variety of classes for all skill levels and needs. They have live and recorded classes and offer in person retreats! They also have studios in Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C. and San Antonio. Be sure to check them out here or on social media @honestsoul.online
⭐️ Elements By Bexa - This Etsy shop is owned by Rebecca, who specializes in lightweight, hypoallergenic aluminum for those with metal allergies & sensitivities. She has a shop full of beautiful pieces and even makes custom pieces. You can find her on Etsy or Facebook!
Military Sisterhood Initiative
The Military Sisterhood Initiative (MSI) is an online community created specifically for women Veterans who are interested in connecting with fellow sisters through workshops and clubs. In effect, it's a network built on the tried and true military concept of having your sister's "six.” If you are a woman Veteran, we encourage you to check out MSI and join here.
