You Can’t Spell Hero Without Her: Texas Salutes Women Who Served

On Women’s Veterans Day, Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D., paid tribute to the courageous women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. The day marks the anniversary of the signing of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which granted women the right to serve as permanent, regular members of the military.

“As Chairwoman of the VLB, it is my honor to advocate for our Veterans every single day,” said Commissioner Buckingham. “There is no greater act of service than pledging to fight for your country. On this day, we are proud to recognize the service and sacrifices of our women Veterans. Texas has the highest women Veteran population in the nation, with over 207,500 women Veterans. So, today, please join me in thanking all of our women Veterans for their courage and service to our great nation.”

In a video message, Commissioner Buckingham called on all Texans to reflect on the invaluable contributions of women in uniform and to recognize the unique challenges they have faced — and continue to face — during and after their military service.

The state’s celebration extended beyond Austin to East Texas, where the VLB partnered with Camp V’s Women’s Center, the Texas Veterans Commission Women’s Program, and the Military and Veterans Success Center at UT Tyler to host the East Texas Women Veterans Celebration. This community event brought together women Veterans and their families for a day of connection, recognition, and resources.

This year’s theme, “You Can’t Spell Hero Without Her,” set the tone for an uplifting event that featured more than 20 vendors providing services for women Veterans. Attendees also heard powerful keynote remarks from Dr. Shirley McKeller, a U.S. Army Veteran and Tyler City Councilwoman, as well as from Tiffany Rivers, also an Army Veteran and Camp V’s MST Facilitator and Peer Groups Coordinator. Both speakers emphasized the strength of sisterhood in service and encouraged continued support among women Veterans.

Country music artist and fellow U.S. Army Veteran Jenn Ford performed the National Anthem and several moving songs, including Coffey Anderson’s tribute, “You Can’t Spell Hero Without Her.” Ford, who served with the U.S. Army band during her active-duty years, brought the crowd to its feet with her performance honoring the bravery and resilience of women in uniform.

To learn more about the Veterans Land Board’s benefits and resources available to Texas Veterans, visit vlb.texas.gov.

Watch Commissioner Buckingham’s message HERE: