Patton Township supervisor among 22 female vets honored by PA Commission for Women

A Patton Township supervisor was recognized and honored this week by the Pennsylvania Commission for Women as part of its celebration of Women’s History Month.

Pamela Robb, who joined the United States Army in 1976 and served for six years, was among 22 female veterans from across Pennsylvania who were honored Wednesday by the Pennsylvania Commission for Women. Robb’s service medals include the Good Conduct Medal and the Army Occupation Medal, according to a press release. As a civilian, she also received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Medal, which instills her military values of honor, truth, and service, the release states.

Commission Executive Director Moriah Hathaway said the Commission was honored to recognize “outstanding” female veterans.

“Women who serve often go unnoticed and deserve our endless gratitude. We are excited to share the accomplishments of 22 women who have dedicated their time and talents to protect Pennsylvania and our nation,” Hathaway said in a release.

Governor Josh Shapiro said veterans deserve “our greatest thanks and respect for their service.”

“Today, we celebrate the leadership and accomplishments of women across Pennsylvania who served our Commonwealth and our nation with distinction. I’m proud to celebrate Pennsylvania’s female veterans — and I vow that as Governor, I will always have our veterans’ backs,” Shapiro said at the ceremony.

Women have played a “significant role” in America’s military history, Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and acting head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, said, and their roles and contributions have evolved over time.

“Women have played a significant role in American military history dating back to the Revolutionary War, serving in many roles including as nurses and spies. Their contributions have evolved to now serving in combat as aviators, commanders and even members of the special forces,” Schindler said in a release. “America would not be the country it is today, without the contributions of women in our military. We are proud to recognize these exceptional honorees as well as nearly 64,000 women veterans who live in Pennsylvania.”

Pennsylvania’s first lady, Lori Shaprio, said the ceremony held earlier this week was a celebration of the women who choose to serve in the armed forces.

“Especially during Women’s History Month, it’s a privilege to welcome these incredible women to Harrisburg and offer our gratitude in honor of their many accomplishments in service to Pennsylvania,” she said in a release.