Women Veterans Honored

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners proclaimed June 12th 2025 as Women Veterans Day. Lincoln County Honors Unsung Heroes highlighting the critical contributions of women in military service. During the proclamation, county officials recognized the often-overlooked sacrifices of women veterans. Lincoln County's recent proclamation of Women Veterans Day has shed light on a critical issue: the vast array of benefits many women veterans unknowingly leave unclaimed. Key Overlooked Benefits for Women Veterans include healthcare services, mental health support, educational benefits, and much more.

Local Veterans Service Officer Keith Barnes highlighted a stark statistic: while women comprise nearly 20% of the veteran population by 2045, only 3% actively seek VA services. "Many women veterans don't realize the extensive support available," Barnes explained. "Our goal is to bridge this information gap." The upcoming Women Veterans Luncheon aims to educate participants about these critical resources. Local veterans are encouraged to contact the Lincoln County Veterans Service Office for personalized benefit guidance.

Keith Barnes, Lincoln County Veterans Service Officer, shared a poignant tribute by naming this year's women veterans luncheon after Eileen Irene Wilder, a World War II Coast Guard veteran whose unclaimed remains symbolize the broader challenges faced by women veterans. "We want to ensure women veterans are aware of and access their benefits," Barnes emphasized. The upcoming luncheon, expected to draw around 60 attendees, will feature Dr. Daniel from ODVA as a keynote speaker. The second annual

Women Veterans Luncheon will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 12 in the Best Western Plus Agate Beach Inn ballroom.

The proclamation celebrated women's military service from the American Revolution to modern times, recognizing their roles in safeguarding national freedom and driving social progress. Commissioners stressed the importance of supporting veterans, with one noting the value of simply asking veterans to share their stories. The event underscores Lincoln County's commitment to honoring and supporting women who have served their country. For more information, to RSVP for the luncheon, or to learn more about veterans' benefits, contact the Veterans Service Office at 541-265-0570.