This week in honor of Women’s Military History week I was able to attend a couple of great events; first off, Latonia Dixon an Army veteran and artist put together a small art exhibit at the San Francisco VA. Six woman artists showcased their art pieces which included paintings, quilts and face masks. Many VA personnel and patients browsed the conference room lined with intriguing art. This is the second art show Latonia has organized and she is very passionate about bringing the veteran community together through art. She ultimately would like to see art gallery space dedicated year-round to showcase veteran art, preferably in a room in the War Memorial Veterans Building.

Secondly, the Cal Vet held the 2012 Women’s Military History Week reception at The California Museum in Sacramento where I had the great privilege to meet Bea Cohen; the oldest living veteran in California. Bea is a 102 year old World War II veteran and community volunteer. During her U.S. Army career Bea was stationed in England where she witnessed history in the making: American planes on their way to invade Normandy. She hopes people will remember the service of women veterans, who were pilots, doctors, dentists, clerks, nurses and much so more. She said that there isn’t anything women cannot do. She is a sharp, passionate woman who is a true inspiration.

Lastly, I will be attending the 4th Annual Women in Military Week event in Alameda which will be held on March 31st at the Twin Towers United Methodist Church. Barbara Ward, former Deputy Secretary for Women and Minority Veterans Affairs at the CA Department of Veterans Affairs, will be speaking at this event and the guest of honor will be Captain Rebecca Murga. The ceremony will conclude with special recognition of Patricia T. Ryan, a veteran, and all her work over the years for veteran causes.