ALCOAST 081/18 - MAR 2018 WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

R 011132 MAR 18
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC//CG-00H//
TO ALCOAST
UNCLAS //N05350//
ALCOAST 081/18
COMDTNOTE 5350
SUBJ:  WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
1.  “Look closely at the present you are constructing; it should look like the
future you are dreaming.” These powerful words from author and activist Alice
Walker have been embraced by women around the world.  This is apparent as the
political landscape has shifted to include millions of courageous women
who step forward to inform, support, serve and protect as change agents in
communities large and small, within the national arena.  Often, these women
stand resolute in the face of adversity and barriers to realize their dreams
and those they hold for their daughters and sons.  Therefore, the Coast Guard’s
theme for the March celebration of Women’s History Month is: “Women as Game
Changers: Honoring Women Who Protect the Homeland.” 
2.  Women are making significant changes in virtually every aspect of American
life including politics, business, civic and community affairs.  Throughout our
Nation’s history, women from all cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds have
worked together to improve opportunities and to encourage female leaders across
all professions to garner understanding that women’s empowerment will lead
to equal opportunities and reduced injustices against women and girls worldwide.
3.  Many women within the Coast Guard serve in key leadership positions and are
widening opportunities for others in civilian and military careers.  The first
woman to command a U.S. military service academy was Vice Admiral Sandra Stosz
who served as the Superintendent of the Coast Guard Academy and later assumed
her current duties as Coast Guard Deputy Commandant for Mission Support.  Other
game changers include: Rear Admiral Erica Schwartz, Director of Health, Safety
and Work-Life; Dr. Gladys Brignoni, Deputy Commander, Force Readiness Command;
and CAPT (sel) Judy Malana, Deputy Chaplain of the Coast Guard.
4.  All Coast Guard units and commands are encouraged to take time this month to
honor the accomplishments and contributions that women have made and continue to
make to our Service, our Nation and the world.
5.  Ms. Terri A. Dickerson, Director, Civil Rights Directorate, sends.
6.  Internet release authorized.