As March marks Women’s History Month, communities across the country are recognizing the achievements and sacrifices of women who have shaped history — including those who served in the United States Armed Forces. In Rockland County, several female veterans have been honored for their exemplary military service and continued dedication to their community.

🇺🇸 Major Mattie Moore (U.S. Army Reserve, Ret.)

Among those recognized is retired U.S. Army Reserve Major Mattie Moore, who served during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm in 1991.

Following her deployment, Major Moore continued her commitment to service through a 30-year career at Keller Army Community Hospital at West Point. Her military and civic contributions earned her the prestigious Rockland County Freedom Award, which recognizes veterans who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to both country and community.

🇺🇸 Mary Contreras (U.S. Army, Vietnam Era)

The late Mary Contreras also stands among Rockland’s honored veterans. Serving as an Army nurse during the Vietnam War era, she provided critical medical care during a turbulent period in U.S. history.

Contreras was posthumously awarded the Rockland County Freedom Award in recognition of her service, compassion, and lasting legacy.

🇺🇸 Staff Sergeant Elizabeth Rubio (U.S. Marine Corps, Ret.)

Another local honoree is retired U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Elizabeth “Lisa” Rubio, who served from 2011 to 2019. During her military career, Rubio held leadership roles within Marine Corps Recruiting Command and Special Operations Command, earning multiple commendations, including two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals.

After her military service, Rubio continued advocating for fellow veterans in Rockland County, working to ensure they receive the benefits and support they have earned.

Breaking Barriers in Combat

In recent decades, expanded roles for women in the armed forces have placed them directly in combat operations. Female soldiers have led patrols, flown fighter jets, defused explosive devices, and commanded units under fire.

Nationally recognized examples include:

• Tammy Duckworth, a U.S. Army helicopter pilot who lost both legs when her aircraft was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade in Iraq and later became a leading advocate for veterans.

• Leigh Ann Hester, who became the first woman since World War II to receive the Silver Star for direct combat action after engaging insurgents during a 2005 ambush in Iraq.

A Legacy of Service

These women represent the courage, resilience, and leadership that define both military service and Women’s History Month. Their stories reflect not only battlefield dedication, but also a lifelong commitment to strengthening their communities.