The United States Marine Corps, founded in 1775, has long been synonymous with grit, honor, and elite military prowess. For much of its history, however, it was an institution closed to women. Yet over the past century, women have not only entered the Corps, they’ve transformed it.
From the first enlistment of Opha May Johnson in 1918 to today’s female generals and combat leaders, the journey of women in the Marine Corps is one of resilience, transformation, and trailblazing leadership.
Early Barriers and First Breakthroughs (1775–1918)
For nearly 150 years after its founding, the Marine Corps remained an all-male institution. During the Revolutionary War, women served in support roles, such as nurses, cooks, and laundresses, but were not formally recognized as Marines. It wasn’t until World War I that the tide began to shift.
In 1918, as the war strained manpower, the Marine Corps opened its doors to women for the first time. Opha May Johnson became the first woman to enlist, joining the ranks as a clerk at Marine Corps Headquarters. Though her role was administrative, her enlistment marked a seismic shift: women could now wear the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.
World War II and the Rise of the Women’s Reserve (1943–1945)
The outbreak of World War II created an unprecedented demand for military personnel across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Faced with the urgent need to bolster manpower while maintaining combat readiness, the Marine Corps took a historic step: in February 1943, it established the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve (USMCWR or WR).
This new branch was led by Colonel Ruth Cheney Streeter, a formidable leader who had never served in the military before but quickly earned respect for her organizational acumen and unwavering commitment to the mission. Under her leadership, the Women’s Reserve expanded rapidly, and by the end of the war, more than 18,000 women had joined its ranks.
Women Marines, then referred to as WRs, were assigned to over 200 occupational specialties, ranging from radio operators and cryptographers to mechanics, control tower operators, and parachute riggers. Their versatility and competence shattered long-held assumptions about gender roles in the military. By 1944, WRs made up 85% of the enlisted personnel at Marine Corps Headquarters, a staggering figure that underscored their indispensability.
The contributions of these women were not merely symbolic. By assuming critical support roles, WRs freed thousands of male Marines for combat duty, directly enhancing the Corps’ operational capacity in theaters across the globe. Their service proved beyond doubt that women could meet the rigorous standards of the Marine Corps and serve capably, honorably, and with distinction.
This era marked a turning point, not just for the Marine Corps, but for the broader movement toward gender integration in the U.S. military. The success of the Women’s Reserve laid the groundwork for future legislation and cultural shifts that would eventually make women a permanent part of the Corps.
Integration and Institutional Change (1948–1975)
In 1948, Congress passed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, making women a permanent part of the regular Marine Corps. This landmark legislation ended the temporary status of the Women’s Reserve and opened the door to career service for women.
The post-war years saw steady progress. In 1950, women were mobilized for the Korean War, and Chief Warrant Officer Rose Franco became the first Hispanic woman to achieve that rank. In 1952, Annie E. Graham became the first Black woman to serve in the Corps, breaking racial and gender barriers simultaneously.
Building on Graham’s legacy, Annie L. Grimes emerged as a trailblazer in Marine Corps leadership. Enlisting in 1950, Grimes steadily rose through the ranks, serving in procurement and supply roles before being appointed a Warrant Officer in 1968—making her the first African American woman to achieve that rank. She continued her ascent, becoming a Chief Warrant Officer in 1969, and ultimately the first Black woman Marine officer to retire after a full 20-year career. Her service exemplified professionalism, perseverance, and the breaking of institutional barriers.
During the Vietnam War era, women served in increasing numbers, though still barred from combat roles. The push for equality gained momentum in the 1970s, culminating in the phasing out of women-only organizations. Brigadier General Margaret A. Brewer, the last Director of Women Marines, oversaw this transition and became the first woman general in the Corps in 1978.
Breaking the Combat Barrier (1975–2016)
The post-Vietnam era ushered in a new phase of integration. Women began attending the same training as men, and restrictions on occupational specialties slowly lifted. By the 1990s, women Marines were serving in aviation, logistics, and intelligence roles.
The most significant breakthrough came in 2016, when the Department of Defense lifted the ban on women in combat roles. That same year, a female lance corporal became the first woman to sign up for the infantry in Marine Corps history. This decision marked the culmination of decades of advocacy and proved that women could meet the Corps’ rigorous physical and mental standards.
Leadership and Legacy (2016–Present)
Today, women comprise approximately 5.1% of the active-duty enlisted force and 4.3% of officers in the Marine Corps. While still a minority, their impact is outsized.
Women now serve in every branch of the Corps, from infantry units to cyber operations. They command battalions, fly fighter jets, and lead strategic planning at the Pentagon. Their presence has reshaped Marine culture, emphasizing inclusivity, professionalism, and merit.
Notable leaders include:
- Lt. Gen. Lori Reynolds: The first woman to serve as Deputy Commandant for Information.
- Maj. Gen. Tracy King: A trailblazer in logistics and operations.
- Sgt. Maj. Robin Fortner: One of the highest-ranking enlisted women in Marine history.
These leaders not only represent progress but also serve as mentors and role models for the next generation of Marines.
Cultural Shifts and Momentum Toward Inclusion
As women have become an integral part of the Marine Corps, the institution has embraced a period of meaningful transformation. The Corps has taken proactive steps to foster a culture rooted in respect, professionalism, and opportunity for all Marines, regardless of gender.
Recognizing the importance of continuous improvement, the Marine Corps has implemented reforms that strengthen its core values. These include enhanced training programs, rigorous enforcement of conduct standards, and expanded support systems that ensure every Marine can thrive in a safe and empowering environment.
Cultural evolution is not just underway, it’s accelerating. The Corps has launched dynamic initiatives that reinforce its commitment to building a force that reflects the strength and character of the nation it serves. Recruitment campaigns now proudly showcase the achievements of women Marines, inspiring future generations to see the Corps as a place where excellence knows no boundaries.
Through these efforts, the Marine Corps continues to honor its legacy while shaping a future where every Marine, regardless of background, can serve with pride, purpose, and the full recognition of their potential.
The Bond of Sisterhood
One of the most enduring aspects of women in the Corps is their camaraderie. Organizations like the Women Marines Association preserve history, foster mentorship, and advocate for veterans. Their motto, “Keep Our Mission In Motion” reflects a commitment to service that transcends generations.
From Opha May Johnson to today’s female infantry officers, women Marines share a bond forged in discipline, sacrifice, and pride. Their stories are not just military history—they are American history.
Final Thoughts
The journey of women in the Marine Corps is a testament to perseverance and patriotism. Over 250 years, they’ve gone from being excluded to becoming indispensable. They’ve shattered ceilings, redefined roles, and led with valor.
As the Corps continues to evolve, the promise of women Marines remains bright. They are not just part of the legacy; they are shaping its future.
