SALEM, Ore. – As communities recognize Women’s History Month and Women’s Military History Month in March, Oregon Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is highlighting three Oregon National Guard service members who are also leading nonprofit organizations that support veterans.
The recognition coincides with Women’s Military History Week, observed March 16–20 as part of the national monthlong recognition of women’s contributions to the armed forces.
The service members include Oregon Air National Guard Chief Master Sgt. Amy Almond-Schmid, executive director of the Returning Veterans Project, and Army National Guard Capt. Dakota Olson-Harris, co-founder of the Reveille and Retreat Project. Both organizations offer programs and support for veterans, including services for women veterans.
Leanne Babcock, Oregon ESGR employer outreach director and Oregon Air National Guard director of logistics, said Guard members often serve their communities in multiple ways.
“It’s pretty incredible that the Oregon Military Department has drilling service members in leadership positions who are also nonprofit leaders serving the veteran community,” Babcock said. “They’re actively serving while building programs that connect and support veterans.”
Babcock is also involved in nonprofit work supporting veterans through the Dauntless Veteran Foundation. This organization helps veterans transition their leadership and teamwork skills into careers in agriculture and winemaking.
Olson-Harris said creating community for women veterans remains an important part of the work.
“Women who have served deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated,” she said. “Many continue to serve as pillars for their families, their communities, and as advocates for other women.”