DVIDS – News – We celebrate Women’s Equality Day 2024

FORT BLISS, Texas — On Aug. 26, the 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade celebrated Women’s Equality Day, joining the nation in recognizing the ratification of the 19th Amendment. This historic event, which granted women the right to vote, served as a reminder of progress made in gender equality and the ongoing commitment to a more inclusive future.

“As we celebrate Women’s Equality Day, it is important for every young woman pursuing a military career to know that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to leadership,” said Maj. Michelle HartbergerSolano, battalion commander of the 1st Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment. “What we bring to the table – our character, charisma and empathy – is more than enough to make a meaningful impact.”

Sgt. Maj. Crystal Ramirez, operations sergeant major of the 11th ADA Brigade, emphasized the importance of recognizing the journey women have taken to date. “It’s important to recognize Women’s Equality Day because many women from the past, present and future are creating the change we need to see in the Army,” Ramirez said.

Sergeant Lamesha Louza, CBRN specialist with the 11th ADA Brigade, explained that Women’s Equality Day is about more than just the right to vote. “It’s about having the courage and determination to break with tradition and show resilience, just as the women before us paved the way to where we are today,” she said.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrea LaSan, brigade senior nutritionist, emphasized the importance of mentoring and leadership in promoting equality. “As women in the military, we have a unique opportunity to mentor and support one another and find positive role models to help us achieve our goals. Women’s Equality Day allows us to recognize the years of perseverance of the women who have served before us and honor their contributions,” said LaSan.