In brief
A group of retired military nurses and supporters are advocating for the Congressional Gold Medal to be awarded to all World War II nurses, many of whom served heroically under dangerous conditions. With only a few surviving nurses left, the coalition fears time is running out to acknowledge their contributions to healthcare and military service. Prominent lawmakers are backing the effort despite challenges in garnering the necessary congressional support.
DANVILLE, Calif. (AP) — At the age of 106, Alice Darrow has not forgotten her days as a nurse during World War II, enduring dangerous conditions to care for wounded soldiers.
Many nurses faced peril; some were killed or imprisoned, while most returned home unnoticed. Now, an effort is underway to award the Congressional Gold Medal to all nurses who served during this transformative period in history.
Darrow reflects on the intense moments treating patients, including a soldier who came in with a bullet lodged in his heart. To them, you’re everything because you’re taking care of them, she recalls.
Despite the historic roles played by these nurses, recognition remains limited. Advocates, including retired military nurses and lawmakers like U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin and U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik, are calling for action to honor those who sacrificed so much.
Statistics illustrate their impact: the survival rate for U.S. soldiers receiving medical care in the field was remarkably high, a testament to the nurses' skill and dedication.
Although there are significant legislative hurdles to pass the proposed medal in Congress, the call for recognition of their contributions continues to grow. The need to honor these trailblazers is pressing, with only a handful remaining, including Elsie Chin Yuen Seetoo, who broke racial barriers in her service.
The longstanding history of nurses in military service includes harrowing tales of bravery and resolve amidst adversity, illustrating their crucial role in military health care.
As advocates work tirelessly for the nurses' recognition, Darrow and others are hopeful this honor will arrive in their lifetime, a long-awaited appreciation for their invaluable service in the line of duty.
