Back in Time Today
The history of the United States Marine Corps is enriched by the contributions of extraordinary women who have broken barriers and set new standards.
This blog post celebrates 26 remarkable female Marines who have left indelible marks on military history.
Their stories, filled with bravery, perseverance, and groundbreaking achievements, serve as inspirations for future generations.
From the first woman to enlist to those who shattered glass ceilings in leadership roles, these trailblazers reflect the evolving role of women in the armed forces.
1. Opha May Johnson
Opha May Johnson was the pioneering woman who became the first female to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps on August 13, 1918. Her enlistment symbolized a significant step forward for women seeking roles in military service.
At that time, women were primarily involved in clerical work, and Johnson’s entry marked the beginning of a new chapter. Although her service was brief due to the end of World War I, her legacy paved the way for countless women to follow.
Her courage and determination remain celebrated as a hallmark of gender equality in the military.
2. Ruth Cheney Streeter
Ruth Cheney Streeter was the first Director of the USMC Women’s Reserve, holding the position during World War II from 1943 to 1945. Streeter’s leadership was instrumental in organizing and expanding the Women’s Reserve, allowing women to serve in various capacities.
Her efforts contributed significantly to the war effort, showing that women could perform admirably in military roles traditionally held by men.
Her vision and dedication helped transform societal perceptions about women’s capabilities and their place in the armed forces.
3. Margaret A. Brewer
Margaret A. Brewer became the first female general officer in the Marine Corps in 1978, a notable achievement that broke longstanding gender barriers within the military. Brewer’s career was marked by dedication, competence, and an unwavering commitment to her duties.
Her promotion to Brigadier General reflected the changing attitudes towards women in the military and inspired many women to pursue leadership roles.
Brewer’s legacy continues to inspire and encourage other female Marines to aim for high-ranking positions within the corps.
4. Angela Salinas
Angela Salinas made history as the first Hispanic woman to become a general officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. Her distinguished career spanned over 39 years, during which she broke numerous barriers and set new precedents for diversity.
Salinas’s leadership and mentorship have been instrumental in encouraging more diverse representation within the Marine Corps.
Her journey underscores the importance of inclusivity and represents a significant milestone in the history of Hispanic women in the military.
5. Carol A. Mutter
Carol A. Mutter achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first female Marine promoted to the rank of three-star general.
Her career was characterized by a series of groundbreaking achievements in various leadership roles. Mutter’s success demonstrated the potential for women to excel in high-ranking positions and paved the way for future generations of female Marines.
Her legacy continues to inspire women in all branches of the armed forces to aspire to top leadership roles.
6. Katherine Amelia Towle
Katherine Amelia Towle was the first Director of Women Marines, appointed in 1948. Her leadership and vision were critical in shaping the role of women within the United States Marine Corps.
During her tenure, Towle worked tirelessly to professionalize the Women’s Reserve and advocate for equal opportunities.
Her efforts laid the groundwork for future generations, ensuring that women could continue to contribute significantly to military service.
7. Gail M. Reals
Gail M. Reals became the first female brigadier general in a non-nursing role, setting a precedent for women in military leadership. Her career demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a trailblazing spirit.
Reals’s accomplishments challenged traditional gender roles within the military and opened doors for women aspiring to similar positions. Her success continues to inspire female Marines to pursue leadership roles without limitations.
8. Lorna Mahlock
Lorna Mahlock made history as the first Black woman nominated as a brigadier general in the Marine Corps. Her nomination marked a significant step forward in the Corps’ commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Mahlock’s career is a testament to perseverance and dedication, and her achievements continue to inspire women of color to pursue careers in the military. Her story exemplifies the progress being made toward a more inclusive and equitable armed forces.
9. Megan McClung
Megan McClung was the first female Marine officer killed in combat during the Iraq War. Her service, sacrifice, and dedication to her duty exemplified the courage and commitment of female Marines in combat roles.
McClung’s legacy is one of bravery and selflessness, and she remains an enduring symbol of the contributions of women in the military. Her story highlights the risks and responsibilities borne by female service members in combat zones.
10. Barbara O. Barnwell
Barbara O. Barnwell was the first female Marine awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for heroism. Her courageous actions set a standard for valor and dedication within the Corps.
Barnwell’s achievements highlighted the capabilities and bravery of female Marines, encouraging more women to take on challenging roles. Her legacy continues to inspire service members to act with honor and courage in the face of adversity.
11. Ruth Broe
Ruth Broe was among the first women to reach the rank of Colonel in the Marine Corps. Her career was marked by dedication, leadership, and a commitment to breaking barriers.
Broe’s accomplishments paved the way for future generations of female Marines, demonstrating that women could excel at the highest levels of military service. Her legacy inspires women to pursue leadership roles in the armed forces.
12. Rose Franco
Rose Franco was the first Hispanic woman to reach the rank of Chief Warrant Officer in the Marine Corps. Her career exemplified dedication, skill, and perseverance.
Franco’s accomplishments have inspired many Hispanic women to pursue military careers and achieve their goals.
Her story underscores the importance of diversity and representation within the armed forces, highlighting the contributions of Hispanic service members.
13. Sarah Deal
Sarah Deal was the first female Marine selected for Naval aviation training, a groundbreaking achievement that opened doors for women in aviation roles.
Her determination and skill demonstrated the potential for women to excel in fields traditionally dominated by men. Deal’s pioneering spirit continues to inspire female Marines to pursue careers in aviation and other challenging specialties within the military.
14. Angela Maness
Angela Maness became the first female commander of Marine Barracks Washington, a prestigious posting that highlighted her leadership and dedication.
Maness’s appointment challenged traditional gender roles and demonstrated the evolving opportunities for women within the Marine Corps. Her achievements inspire other women to seek command positions and influence change within the military.
15. Julia E. Hamblet
Julia E. Hamblet served as the Director of Women Marines from 1953 to 1959, guiding the organization through a period of growth and change.
Her leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping the role of women within the Marine Corps and ensuring their contributions were recognized. Hamblet’s legacy continues to inspire female Marines to strive for excellence and leadership positions.
16. Lillian Hartley
Lillian Hartley was one of the first Black women to enlist in the Marines in 1949. Her enlistment marked a significant step forward for racial and gender equality within the military.
Hartley’s service demonstrated the courage and determination required to break barriers and challenge societal norms. Her legacy continues to inspire women of color to pursue military careers and contribute to the armed forces.
17. Marilyn Koon
Marilyn Koon was among the first female Marine drill instructors, setting new standards for training and leadership. Her role demonstrated the capabilities and strengths of women in demanding and authoritative positions.
Koon’s legacy continues to inspire female Marines to pursue careers in training and leadership within the Corps.
18. Linda L. Bray
Linda L. Bray was the first woman to lead U.S. troops in battle during the 1989 Panama invasion. Her leadership and courage in combat were pivotal.
Bray’s actions challenged traditional gender roles and demonstrated the capabilities of women in leadership during conflict. Her story continues to inspire women to pursue military careers and leadership roles in combat settings.
19. Shannon Workman
Shannon Workman became the first woman to command a Marine F/A-18 squadron, a significant milestone in military aviation history.
Her leadership and expertise in aviation set new standards for female pilots and demonstrated the potential for women to excel in high-stakes roles. Workman’s legacy continues to inspire female aviators to pursue leadership positions in the military.
20. Amy Bauernschmidt
Amy Bauernschmidt was the first woman to serve as the executive officer of a nuclear carrier, showcasing her leadership and expertise.
Her role challenged traditional gender roles and highlighted the evolving opportunities for women in high-ranking positions. Bauernschmidt’s achievements inspire women to pursue leadership roles in the Navy and other branches of the military.
21. Michele A. Fitzpatrick
Michele A. Fitzpatrick was the first woman to command a Marine Recruit Depot battalion, a significant milestone in leadership. Her role demonstrated the capabilities of women to lead and train new generations of Marines.
Fitzpatrick’s legacy continues to inspire female Marines to pursue leadership roles within the Corps.
22. Janet R. Wolfenbarger
Janet R. Wolfenbarger became the first female four-star general in the Air Force, but her journey began in the Marines. Her career highlights the interconnectedness of military branches and the opportunities available to women seeking leadership roles.
Wolfenbarger’s legacy continues to inspire women across all military services to aim for high-ranking positions.
23. Loretta Walsh
Loretta Walsh was the first woman to enlist in the Navy, paving the way for future female Marines. Her enlistment in 1917 marked a significant milestone in military history.
Walsh’s service demonstrated the potential for women to contribute to the armed forces and inspired other women to enlist. Her legacy continues to inspire women to pursue military careers and challenge traditional gender roles.
24. Lucy Brewer
Lucy Brewer is a legendary figure said to have disguised herself as a male Marine to fight in the War of 1812. Although her story is debated, it symbolizes the courage and desire of women to serve.
Brewer’s tale is an inspiring legend that highlights the lengths to which women have gone to participate in military service. Her legacy continues to inspire women to pursue their dreams in the armed forces despite traditional barriers.
25. Martha McSally
Martha McSally became the first female fighter pilot in combat, initially beginning her career in the Marines. Her groundbreaking achievements in aviation demonstrated the capabilities of women in combat roles.
McSally’s legacy continues to inspire female service members to pursue careers in aviation and other challenging fields within the military.
26. Nicole Aunapu Mann
Nicole Aunapu Mann made history as the first Native American woman in space, following a distinguished career as a Marine Corps test pilot. Her achievements highlight the diverse opportunities available to women in the military and beyond.
Mann’s story continues to inspire women to pursue careers in STEM fields and reach for the stars.