The Women’s Overseas Service League is a nonprofit organization established in 1921 by women who had served abroad during World War I. At the time, female veterans were often excluded from traditional veterans’ organizations and denied equal recognition and benefits. In response, these women formed their own network to maintain connections, support one another, and advocate for their rights.
The organization’s mission is to promote the welfare of women veterans, advocate for equal access to benefits and recognition, and preserve the history of women’s overseas service. Early members included nurses, telephone operators, relief workers, and other volunteers who contributed to the war effort overseas. Over time, WOSL has developed programs such as scholarships for women pursuing careers in public service, oral history projects documenting veterans’ experiences, and outreach efforts to raise awareness about women’s contributions.
Originally limited to World War I veterans, membership later expanded to include women who served in World War II and subsequent conflicts, as well as those working overseas in government or support roles. Today, the Women’s Overseas Service League continues to support women who served abroad and ensure their roles are remembered and valued.
The Women’s Overseas Service League is a nonprofit organization established in 1921 by women who had served abroad during World War I. At the time, female veterans were often excluded from traditional veterans’ organizations and denied equal recognition and benefits. In response, these women formed their own network to maintain connections, support one another, and advocate for their rights.
The organization’s mission is to promote the welfare of women veterans, advocate for equal access to benefits and recognition, and preserve the history of women’s overseas service. Early members included nurses, telephone operators, relief workers, and other volunteers who contributed to the war effort overseas. Over time, WOSL has developed programs such as scholarships for women pursuing careers in public service, oral history projects documenting veterans’ experiences, and outreach efforts to raise awareness about women’s contributions.
Originally limited to World War I veterans, membership later expanded to include women who served in World War II and subsequent conflicts, as well as those working overseas in government or support roles. Today, the Women’s Overseas Service League continues to support women who served abroad and ensure their roles are remembered and valued.