Political Quotes

“August 13, 2018, marked the centennial of women serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. I am proud that Indiana was home to the first woman to serve in the Marine Corps, Opha May Johnson. Mrs. Johnson was born in Kokomo, IN, on May 4, 1878. Before becoming a marine at the age of 39, she graduated from Wood's Commercial Business College and worked diligently for 14 years in the Interstate Commerce Department. Like many Americans during WWI, Mrs. Johnson heeded the Nation's call and took the oath without hesitation on August 13, 1918. She was the first of 300 women who worked at the Marine Corps headquarters in Virginia. After 5 weeks in the service, she was promoted to the rank of sergeant and remained on Active Duty until February 1919, 3 months after the end of WWI. Mrs. Johnson remained in civil service until her retirement in 1943. Mrs. Johnson was the first of a group of trailblazing women in the Marine Corps, and it is with overwhelming pride that I recognize her service to this country. As a marine and Hoosier, I ask that you join me today in honoring Opha May Johnson and all of the courageous marines following in her footsteps. ____________________”