OCTOBER 3, 2022 – Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday and his wife Linda Gilday attended a National Women’s Soccer League game at Audi Field where the Washington Spirit highlighted Women in the Navy (WIN), Oct. 1.
During the game, between the Washington Spirit and the Houston Dash, Navy women, which included Sailors and civilians, were recognized on the field for their service.
“I am grateful to the Washington Spirit for helping us honor the Navy and, even more importantly, all of the incredible accomplishments of women in the Navy,” said Gilday. “Women have and continue to serve with honor and distinction, often overcoming overwhelming odds, challenges and bias. It’s important we continue to share the legacies of these trailblazers, innovators and leaders who continue to inspire.”
Some of the women featured in the book attended the game and walked in the parade at halftime, including Ms. Giao Phan (Executive Director, Naval Sea Systems Command) and Ms. Jennifer LaTorre (Executive Director, Naval Facilities Engineering Command).
Since being allowed to join the U.S. Navy more than a century ago in 1917, women have profoundly impacted the Navy and created enduring legacies. To honor those trailblazers who have led the way, along with the more than 60,000 women who serve today, the Gildays’, in coordination with Naval History and Heritage Command, created a Women in the Navy e-book, available online at www.navy.mil/win, as well as a display at their residence on the Washington Navy Yard, Tingey House.
“This WIN display and book has two purposes: it is a way to recognize those ‘first’ women who served – both in and out of uniform – with honor, humility, fortitude and sacrifice; and second, it is a way to inspire both men and women alike,” said Linda.
“This soccer game is such an appropriate and amazing way for us to celebrate the many accomplishments that women have achieved through hard work, grit and determination,” added the CNO.
This was the first time the WIN initiative has been recognized at a public event.
You can visit the WIN website at: www.navy.mil/win and view the WIN book at: https://go.usa.gov/xzv8P
Chief of Naval Operations