In the annals of World War II history, a group of extraordinary women have long been overlooked: the military nurses who served on the front lines, saving lives while dodging bullets and facing unimaginable challenges.

Alice Darrow, now 106 years old, is one of the few remaining nurses from that era who can still recount her incredible experiences. At just 20 years old, she served as an Army nurse, treating wounded soldiers with remarkable courage and compassion. Her story, like many of her fellow nurses, reveals a profound commitment to care that transcended the brutal realities of war.

During World War II, the number of military nurses dramatically expanded from fewer than 2,300 to over 73,000. These women were not just medical professionals; they were trailblazers who broke racial barriers and challenged societal norms. Black nurses and nurses of color, who initially faced strict quotas and discrimination, fought to serve their country, ultimately proving their immense value and resilience.

The challenges these nurses faced were extraordinary. Some served on hospital ships under enemy fire, while others landed in war zones to establish medical facilities amid active combat. Nearly 80 military nurses were even captured as prisoners of war in the Philippines, enduring three years of harsh captivity while continuing to provide medical care.

Today, a coalition of veterans and advocates is pushing for these nurses to receive the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s highest civilian honor. With only a handful of World War II nurses still alive, including Elsie Chin Yuen Seetoo, the first Chinese American nurse in the Army Nurse Corps, time is running out to recognize their incredible contributions.

Statistics reveal the profound impact of these nurses: fewer than 4% of soldiers who received medical care during World War II died from wounds or disease, a testament to their skill and dedication. As retired Colonel Edward Yackel notes, these nurses laid the groundwork for modern military medical practices.

Their stories are not just historical footnotes but powerful reminders of courage, sacrifice, and the often-overlooked role of women in wartime. As we remember their service, we honor not just their medical expertise, but their unwavering spirit in the face of unimaginable challenges.