On 12 Aug 1918 women were first called into service to answer the call of a nation at war. They volunteered under the recruiting posters of, "Free A Man to Fight" Opha Mae Johnson was the first official recruit to heed the call and enlisted in Washington DC., on 13 Aug 1918. 305 women joined the rank of marine during the period of Aug 1918 to July 1919 when they were formally disbanded. It is said that Lucy Brewer, disguised as a man, served on the USS Constitution, in the Marine Detachment during the War of 1812.

    On November 7, 1942 the formation of the United States Marine Corps Reserves was approved. It was on 13 February 1943 that the Reserves were formed.

    Colonel Waller, Director of the Reserves, recommended to the Commandant that the Women Reservists would not have a special name designated for them as in the case of the Navy's WAVES and the Coast Guards SPARS.

    General Holcomb declared, "They (Women Marines) don't have a nickname, and they don't need one. They get their basic training in a Marine atmosphere, at a Marine Post. They inherit the traditions of the Marines. They are Marines." He also stated, "There's hardly any work at our Marine stations that women can't do as well as men. Some work they do far better than men... What is more, they're real Marines." While BGen L.W.T. Waller, Jr stated in 1944 on the first anniversary, "Frankly, a year ago you were not wanted. Today, a year later, you are not only wanted but are needed, and the Marine Corps could not do without you."

    To this day women join the elite ranks of Marine with the same determination and love of Corps as those from our past. The legacy lives on in the spirit and Corps values that were instilled as we became Marines. Being a Marine is not something that one did for a few years. Marine is who we became the day we earned our title and is never taken lightly, never forgotten and never set aside. The Corps values that were passed on from our past of honor, courage and commitment is an integrated part of our lives today and will continue to be the foundation we build upon for our future generations.

    The Women Marines Association, formed in 1960, is the only non-profit, nationally sanctioned veterans organization for women who have or are currently serving in the United States Marine Corps. Marines, known for taking care of their own, work to promote the welfare of our fellow veterans within our own communities and where ever help is needed.

    Active locally WMA Motor City MI-2, works to preserve the history and heritage of women in the Corps. Within the community we participate in events such as school programs on veterans, working with the area recruiters to promote women in the military, and conducting events for other charitable and educational purposes. Such programs as veterans outreach, volunteering at John Dingell VA Hospital, and Toys for Tots, are all part of helping to serve and honor those who have fought to keep our country free.

    Our Chapter includes WWII women veteran,  several Korean War vets and a good assortment of Vietnam veterans to active duty Marines.

    We are looking for our fellow Woman Marines. The camaraderie and "esprit de corps"  still burns as strong as the first day that it was emblazoned on our souls.

    For more information on the Woman Marines Association please contact: Mary Merritt at merrittone@comcast.net  or visit us on the web.