Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham marked Women Veterans Day on Thursday by honoring the state’s 207,500 female veterans, the nation’s highest population of women veterans.
The day commemorates the signing of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which allowed women to serve permanently in the regular armed forces.
“As Chairwoman of the VLB, it is my honor to advocate for our Veterans every single day. There is no greater act of service than pledging to fight for your country,” Buckingham said. “On this day, we are proud to recognize the service and sacrifices of our women Veterans.”
The recognition comes as Texas continues to expand support services for its growing female veteran population. Still, many women veterans face unique challenges accessing benefits and healthcare designed primarily for male service members.
The Veterans Land Board recently partnered with several organizations to host an East Texas Women Veterans Celebration. The event featured a resource fair with over 20 vendors providing services to women veterans and their families.
This year’s theme, “You Can’t Spell Hero Without Her,” highlighted women’s contributions to military service. Country artist and Army veteran Jenn Ford performed the national anthem at the celebration, including the theme song by Coffey Anderson. Ford served six years with the U.S. Army band during her active duty.
Buckingham, who made history in 2022 as Texas’ first female Land Commissioner, urged Texans to thank women veterans for their service.
“So, today, please join me in thanking all of our women Veterans for their courage and service to our great nation,” she said.
The Veterans Land Board offers various benefits to Texas veterans, including home loans, land loans, and long-term care. However, advocates note that more targeted programs for women veterans are necessary as their numbers continue to grow nationwide.