March is Women’s History Month, and during this time of the year, the contributions of women to events in history are highlighted. On March 28, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Sailors gathered at Huntington Hall in Newport News to honor women’s heritage and history.

The celebration in honor of female service members was organized and facilitated by a group of volunteer Sailors from the ship’s American Heritage Observance Committee (AHOC). The committee promotes diversity and American heritage activities for crew members stationed on board the USS Carl Vinson.

The observance highlighted the significant contributions women have made as members of the Armed Forces, as well as to the nation. AHOC committee members also displayed uniforms worn by female Sailors through the years while reciting milestones and advances in women’s history.

Lynn Ruehlmann, an actress who creates and performs her own storytelling programs, was guest speaker. Said Ruehlmann, “I really enjoyed participating in the ceremony today. It’s wonderful to see the Navy honoring women like they are doing now. Women’s history is important. Unless you know where you’ve been, you don’t know where you want to go. It’s all about opportunity, education, and respect.”

Many crew members stated that the celebration helped them better appreciate the broadened opportunities available today for women serving in the military.

Yeoman 2nd Class (SW) Tina Johnson said, “Today, women can do pretty much every job in the Navy across the board. When we highlight women’s history, we learn how important these advances are for our Navy and our country.”