County Veteran Services to Host Women Veterans Recognition Day Celebration on June 12

Durham, N.C. – Durham County Veteran Services invites the community to its annual Women Veterans Recognition Day Celebration at 11 a.m., on Friday, June 12, 2026. The event, honoring the service and contributions of women who have served in the United States Armed Forces, will be held in the second‑floor conference rooms of the Durham County Human Services Building at 414 E. Main Street.

This marks the second year Veteran Services has formally recognized Women Veterans Recognition Day. Observed each year on June 12, the day commemorates the anniversary of President Harry S. Truman signing the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act into law on June 12, 1948, allowing women to serve as permanent, regular members of the U.S. Armed Forces. This year’s theme, “A Sisterhood of Service since 1775,” highlights the more than 250-year legacy of women who have stepped forward to serve our nation, from the American Revolutionary War to today. Honoring generations of women whose service has shaped our country as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence.

The program will feature guest speaker retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Traci Goodwin, who will share stories and personal reflections from her military career. Attendees will also have opportunities to network with fellow veterans and connect with local vendors offering information about community resources and support services.

“Durham County Veteran Services is honored to celebrate the strength and resilience of women in our military,” says Durham County Veteran Service Officer Hellen W. Juarez Ruiz. “We proudly stand with women veterans in our community to raise awareness, foster solidarity, and remind everyone we are stronger together.”

More than 2,000 known female veterans call Durham County home. Community members are encouraged to join in recognizing their service. The event is free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be provided. Registration is required due to limited space. Those who plan to attend should RSVP using the provided link.

Parking is available on surrounding streets and in nearby garages. Free parking is available in the 500 E. Main Street Parking Deck (114 S. Elizabeth Street), adjacent to the Human Services Building. Paid parking is available in the Queen Street Parking Deck (115 N. Queen Street) above the first level, with additional paid options on surrounding streets and at the Church Street Parking Deck between Main and Ramseur Streets.

For more information about this event in observance of Women Veterans Recognition Day, call 919-560-8387 or email veteranservices@dconc.gov.

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