LANSING – State Representative Pam Faris (D-Clio) introduced a bill today to update the war monuments at the Capitol Building. This bill would provide for construction that updates the current memorials and the addition of a new memorial honoring the contributions of Michigan women.

“The participation of women in war has increased significantly and their efforts should not go unnoticed. Women have been nurses, soldiers, journalists, diplomats and spies in all branches of the armed forces and their efforts have been very beneficial to our country,” said Faris.

With the fourth of July upon us, it is important to honor our nation’s independence and freedoms. However, these freedoms could not be possible without our nation’s heroes, including the women that served. Women like Sarah Edmonds of Flint, Michigan, who served in Michigan’s 2nd Infantry during the Battle of Bull Run, and Julia Stimson of the American Army Nurse Corps, who was the first female major of the United States Army, have made history while serving in American war efforts.

“Although it is common for women to serve in the military today, their contributions during earlier conflicts are less recognized. This does not make them any less important,” said Faris.