Opha mae johnson biography and factsheet

In the spirit of the value the Marine Corps places on its history, we wanted to give you, Marine families and supporters, an opportunity to embrace and learn about this part of Marine Corps legacy as well. Inas World War I was coming to an end, the number of male Marines deployed overseas led to the Marine Corps allowing women to enlist for the first time, filling the vacancies primarily administrative left by the deployed Marines.

On August 13,approximately women enlisted in the Marine Corps reserves, with Opha May Johnson being the first. References [ edit ]. August 13, Retrieved September 2, Retrieved December 31, Evening Star Washington D. June 4, Retrieved January 2, The Washington Times Washington D. June 5, December 24, August 28, Retrieved January 6, August 14, Quantico Sentry Online.

Richmond Times Dispatch. September 1, Archived from the original on May 23, Opha was very supportive of women getting more involved and higher-ranking roles in the military. As ofthe US Marine Corps had over 12, enlisted women and 1, female officers in their ranks. Likewise, they received the same pay as men of equal rank. They earned respect—and promotions.

For her part, Opha May Johnson had attained the rank of sergeant by the end of the war.

Opha mae johnson biography and factsheet

Semper Fi, Marines. Enjoyed this post? More stories of American. Primary Sources:. World War One Centennial Commission website. Captain Linda L. Marine Corps; Olivia B.