GROTON, Conn. - Today more than 350,000 women serve in the United States armed forces, and there are 1.2 million women veterans in America. Currently, one in every seven troops in Iraq is a woman. Prior to World War I this would have been unheard of, but thanks to a brave young woman who enlisted in the Navy back in 1917, women are now allowed to serve their country alongside the men. It is because of the accomplishments of brave women throughout our country's history that women are now allowed to serve in all branches of the military and even on the Supreme Court.
Years before women were permitted to enlist in the military the United States Navy was drastically transformed with the invention of the submarine. An Irish immigrant designed and built what became the first United States submarine, as well as the world's first submarine. Nations all over the world have followed in these footsteps and now have a submarine force of their own. Because of determination of dedication of this brilliant Irish-American, the face of warfare was changed forever.
This month we celebrate the accomplishments of these amazing people who opened so many doors for future generations. In honor of Irish-American Heritage and Women's History Month, we highlight the lives and accomplishments of some very important Irish-Americans and brave women who will be remembered for their accomplishments throughout history.