My Soldier: Her Story

March is a time for the nation to recognize women as a force in history. This year, Manhattanville My Soldier is paying special attention to the women serving in the armed forces. Congress declared the month of March, Women’s History Month in order to promote the teaching of women's history and recognize the role of American women in transforming culture, history and politics. 

In observance of Women’s History Month, Manhattanville My Soldier has created My Soldier: Her Story, a program that encourages Americans to honor deployed female soldiers by sending letters and care packages in appreciation of their service to our country. The new initiative aims to spotlight women serving in all branches of the military.

Since the Revolutionary War, American women have served with honor and distinction in every military conflict. According to US Department of Veteran’s Affairs, there are approximately 1.7 million women veterans. Currently, women make up 15 percent of the active duty force and approximately 23 percent of the reserve force. 

“The military women I met while serving in Iraq were courageous and kind,” said My Soldier co-founder Juan Salas, active duty army sergeant and Manhattanville College student. “We are asking civilians to pay respect to these brave women during Women’s History Month. Please, send a letter to let a female soldier know that you are thinking of her, or to thank her for all she is sacrificing to make the world a safer place.”

While the traditional My Soldier program attempts to foster an ongoing pen-pal relationship with an individual soldier, My Soldier: Her-Story is tailored to those groups or individuals who want to send some support without making a continuing commitment. Suggested support consists of handwritten letters, thank-you cards and perhaps children’s artwork. Participants may also choose to send care packages, which are greatly appreciated (but not expected) by the soldiers.

Those interested in participating in My Soldier: Her Story can contact the Manhattanville My Soldier project coordinator at (914) 323-5172 or email mysoldier@mville.edu (please remember to include the phrase women’s history month in the subject line). Within a few days of registering all participants will receive the name and address of a platoon contact. The platoon contact will distribute your letter or package to a female soldier in their unit. 

To sign up for the traditional adopt-a-soldier program please click here.

Additional Women’s History Month Links:

Women's Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery
The Women's Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery is the only major national memorial honoring women who have served in our nation's defense during all eras and in all services. Their website offers an extensive collection of historical and educational resources.