In 1987, the U.S. Congress passed legislation designating March as Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the countless contributions women have made to our nation’s history.

At Wreaths Across America, we proudly uphold this tradition by honoring the stories of women who have shaped our country and by providing educational resources that help teach the next generation about their service, courage and leadership.

Through the Wreaths Across America TEACH program, educators and families have access to free, age-appropriate lesson plans for grades K–12 that encourage meaningful conversations about women’s roles in U.S. history. These resources include books, discussion prompts, and creative activities designed to inspire students to learn about the women who helped shape our nation.

Throughout history, women have stepped forward in extraordinary ways.

Dr. Mary Edwards Walker

Dr. Mary Edwards Walker served as a surgeon on the front lines during the Civil War and was captured as a prisoner of war while caring for the wounded. For her bravery and dedication, she was awarded the Medal of Honor.

In 1917, the medal was rescinded when eligibility rules were changed to require direct combat service. Dr. Walker refused to return her medal and wore it proudly until her death in 1919. In 1977, her Medal of Honor was restored, and she remains the only woman to have received it.

Rosie the Riveter

During World War II, as millions of men left their jobs to serve in the military, women stepped into the industrial workforce in unprecedented numbers. They built aircraft, produced weapons, and manufactured the supplies needed to support the war effort.

The iconic “We Can Do It!” poster came to symbolize the strength and determination of these women. Known collectively as Rosie the Riveter, they challenged traditional gender roles and paved the way for future generations of women in the workforce.

Sojourner Truth

After escaping slavery, Sojourner Truth became a powerful advocate for abolition and women’s rights. Her famous speech, “Ain’t I A Woman?”, challenged both racial injustice and gender inequality.

During the Civil War, Truth helped recruit Black soldiers for the Union Army and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of freedmen and women. Her voice and advocacy helped lay the foundation for future civil rights movements.

Sharing Women’s Stories All Year Long

Wreaths Across America continues to highlight the stories of women who serve through Women’s Wednesday: Sharing Strength in Every Story on Wreaths Across America Radio. This weekly program line-up features powerful stories from women within the military community.

Listeners can also tune in to the “HERstory Podcast: 3 Million Servicewomen’s Stories,” hosted by Phyllis Wilson, President of the Military Women’s Memorial. Airing Wednesdays at 8 a.m. EST, the program shares the inspiring experiences of the more than three million women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Women’s History Month reminds us that the courage, leadership, and service of women have shaped our nation’s past, and continue to inspire its future.

To explore the Wreaths Across America TEACH program and download free lesson plans, visit our curriculum page here.

You can also listen to Women’s Wednesday: Sharing Strength in Every Story each week on Wreaths Across America Radio or on demand on SoundCloud.