The Pennsylvania Commission for Women hosted an event to honor Pennsylvania’s female veterans in celebration of Women’s History Month, reports the PA Governor’s Office.

The event honored 21 women from across the commonwealth representing every branch of the armed services for their brave service and selfless contributions to Pennsylvania and to the nation. 

“Tom and I are deeply grateful for and inspired by the strength, resilience, and pride, of the service of the women we are celebrating today,” said First Lady Wolf. “These valiant leaders have made great sacrifices to protect our commonwealth, our country, and our freedoms. It is important that we elevate their stories and accomplishments to express our appreciation and encourage the next generation of military women.” 

“On behalf of the Pennsylvania Commission for Women, we are honored to recognize the courageous and selfless women who keep Pennsylvania, and our nation, safe,” said Commission Chair Randi Teplitz. “Women who serve make tremendous personal sacrifices and deserve our endless gratitude. We are excited to share the unique stories and accomplishments of 21 women who have triumphed in both the public and private sectors.” 

The women who were honored included the following women from Montgomery County:

Veronica Hally joined the United States Army in 1996. She was deployed to Egypt in support of Operation Bright Star and to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2006, she left the United States Army and retired with the Federal Bureau of Investigation after 24 years of federal service.  

State Representative Tracy Pennycuick from Montgomery County joined the United States Army as an enlisted medic in 1984. Her combat tours include Desert Shield and Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan. She retired in 2010 after 26 years of both active and reserve service. 

Raquel Stewart from Montgomery County enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves in 1986. She fulfilled her 8-year military commitment and was honorable discharged in 1994. At the time of discharge, she received the Outstanding Service Women’s award from her Reserve Unit. 

“It is truly an honor to recognize these amazing military service women and celebrate their careers. Women in the military continue to push boundaries because of the service of the women we honor today and women that served in every generation,” said Maureen Weigl, Deputy Adjutant General for Veterans Affairs.

To learn more about the Pennsylvania Commission for Women, visit the Commission’s website here.

______