On March 6, 2020, the U.S. Embassy in Kolonia organized a lunch event to celebrate International Women’s Day. The event honored women from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The embassy staff expressed gratitude to these veterans for their roles as models of commitment to peace, security, and humanitarian efforts globally.
Among the attendees was Ms. Merins Hadley Race, a National Guard medic and one of the first women from FSM to enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces. Reflecting on her decision made over three decades ago, she stated, “Thirty-three years ago, I enlisted because I wanted to show the world that Pacific women can join the military, too.” Other veterans highlighted how their service has helped them achieve educational goals through programs like the GI Bill.
The United States remains dedicated to promoting empowerment for women and girls across FSM.