Airport plaque honors women service members Published Dec. 9, 2011 By Staff Sgt. William Banton 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Members of Hurlburt Field honored the patriotism of women who have served as members of the armed forces by attending a plaque unveiling ceremony at the Northwest Florida Regional Airport in Valparaiso, Fla., Dec. 7. The event brought together active duty and retired service members from multiple branches to show their respect and appreciation to the sacrifices women have made for their country, while coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. "It was such an amazing experience," said Maj. Barbara Cain, chief nurse for the 1st Special Operations Medical Group. "There were women in attendance who were instrumental in helping to make this country, with its freedoms, the land of opportunity. It was such an honor to be around them, speak with them and hear their fascinating stories." Nearly 2 million women, 14.6 percent of all Armed Forces, are currently serving on active duty, said U.S. Coast Guard Cmdr. Martha LaGuardia-Kotite. "It's a subject that needs much more attention," LaGuardia-Kotite said in her dedication speech. "I thank each of you for paying attention to the services of women veterans. Serving in the military today is everything: It's exciting, it's rewarding, it's meaningful and, for me, also a blessing." The bronze 30" by 24" plaque depicts a few of the many contributions women provide the Armed Forces. It reads: "In honor of all women who served in the Armed Forces to preserve America's freedom. To preserve America's freedom this plaque is a testament to the spirit of patriotism inherent in all of the courageous women who volunteered to boldly defend, loyally uphold and valiantly preserve the liberties and freedoms of this great land through their service in the armed forces of the United States of America."