In Recognition of Women’s History Month
By Erika Zobel, 1st VP, American Legion Auxiliary, Greece Post 468
Fun facts: Did you know that March was once the first month, but became the third when January and February were added to the Roman Calendar sometime around 700 BC? It was named after the Roman god of war, Mars. March also signifies new beginnings and the transition from winter to spring. In 1987, Congress recognized March as Women’s History Month. What an incredible recognition to be bestowed upon the women in the 20th century. Just three centuries ago, life for women was not easy. If you’re a Bridgerton fan like I am, you know that a woman’s existence in society was solely based on whom they married and which social class they were born into. Women had no identity other than through their spouse. They could not vote, hold professional positions, own land, or even have access to an education. Women were simply put on this earth to provide children and marry rich.
Women’s roles have evolved a lot over the centuries and continue to evolve today. In contrast to the traditional roles women had in the 19th century, I want to share the untraditional role of Greece Post 468 Legion member Donna (Ford) Shulenburg. Donna has had an incredible journey, and she is an inspiration for all women today.
While many women married, got full-time jobs, or headed off to college after high school, Donna’s path was different; she chose the military. Her career spanned 20 years, ending with her retirement in 1995. Donna knew she wanted to join the military when she was still a child, influenced by growing up in a military family. Donna describes herself as having been an “Army Brat” and is part of a proud family legacy. Her grandfather served in World War I, her mother served in the U.S. Army, and her father, who served for 20 years as a Chief Warrant Officer, now resides in the Town of Greece as well.
After thoughtful consideration of her family members, Donna researched other branches, spoke with recruiters, and ultimately chose to take a different path than her family’s history with the Army. Donna chose the U.S. Navy. She started her career in Pensacola, Florida, and trained as a Cryptologic Technician Operator (CTO). She reached the rank of Petty Officer First Class (E6).
When Donna started her military career, the U.S. was ending its involvement in the Vietnam War, Gerald Ford was president, and women’s roles were continuing to expand in the workforce and higher education. Civil rights and protest continued throughout our land, and in the military, women were making history.
It was during this time that Donna’s company and a “sister company” became the first female companies to accompany the men through chemical, biological, and marksmanship training. It had also been about one year since the military began accepting women to train as Cryptologic Technician Operators.
Donna completed her training and was assigned to her first command. She was just 19 years old and only the third female to be assigned to the command. She was placed among nine other sailors.
During her tenure, Donna witnessed major policy changes regarding women in the military. One of the major changes was permitting women to be designated from non-combatant ships and admitted onboard combatant ships. With these changes, Donna was deployed overseas to Guam, Rota, Spain, and Terrace Island in the Azores. She met different people from different cultures and religions, making her journey in the Navy worthwhile.
The Navy gave Donna direction, purpose, empowerment, strength, and growth. She and other women helped forge a path, making great strides for women in the armed services. Donna said, “It was the best decision of my life, and I would recommend the military to anyone.”
I’d like to end this article with a shout-out to Donna and all other military brothers and sisters: Thank you for your service and for the sacrifices you and your families have made in defense of our country. I sincerely appreciate your time and dedication to protecting our freedoms. God Bless America
Greece Post 468 accepts new members year-round, with membership based on meeting requirements. Members work to support veterans, active-duty service members, families, and local communities. The Post is located at 344 Dorsey Road, Rochester, NY 14616.
Visit online at: https://greeceny468legionpost.com
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