She became the Navy’s first female line officer on 3 August 1942. Commissioned a Lieutenant Commander in the Naval Reserve, she simultaneously undertook the demanding task of Director of the Navy’s newly-established Women’s Reserve. In November 1943, following the passage of new legislation by the Congress, she was promoted to the rank of Captain.
In January 1911, she became the second Superintendent of the Nurse Corps. For her achievements in leading the Corps through the First World War, Chief Nurse Higbee was awarded the Navy Cross, the first woman to receive that medal.
Legendary oceanographer Commander Mary Sears was a member of nine scientific and honorary societies and was a longtime member of the WHOI governing board. Throughout her career, she provided leadership across many oceanographic disciplines and mentored generations of young scientists.
In 1908, she joined the newly-established U.S. Navy Nurse Corps as one of its first twenty members. She was promoted to Chief Nurse in 1911. In 1919, she became the first Navy women to serve at sea.
One of six Native American women who enlisted in the US Coast Guard SPARS during World War II
Corrine Koshiway Goslin Mzhickteno (Otoe) dedicated her life to serving her tribal nation and the United States, including by serving in the Coast Guard during World War II.
Putting on the dress of a sailor, she joined the crew of a fine ship, commanded by one of her brothers; and in an engagement with the French, she fought most gallantly for upwards of six hours.
Australian marine biologist, particularly renowned as a pioneer of coral reef biology.
American journalist, author, and social reformer, who achieved widespread recognition for her diverse career and her survival of the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912.
The first woman in the Navy to be promoted to the rank of three-star admiral.