Women veterans remembered in Rehoboth Beach

The Gay Women of Rehoboth held its second annual Memorial Day event May 27, honoring women service members, first responders, and military and service dogs who gave their lives for their country.

A list of the fallen service members was read aloud as taps played.

“At times, we feel like women veterans have been forgotten, as well as the military dogs and service dogs,” said Lisa Sowens of the Gay Women of Rehoboth.

Retired Cmdr. Dr. Jeanette Shimkus, U.S. Navy, was the emcee for the ceremony. She spent 38 years in the military, including tours as medical officer on the USS Eisenhower and USS Wasp.

“We all lost somebody who has touched us all. The military has always recognized women, but it’s more so today because the roles of women in combat are more accepted,” Shimkus said. “To represent the glass ceilings that have been broken, and to be comrades side-by-side with our fellow men, is an amazing dream.”

Shimkus encouraged the younger generation to join the military, Peace Corps or work in public health. “They can serve, learn to get along with each other, and respect each other and move forward,” she said.

Retired Col. Deb Harrington, U.S. Army, and retired Maj. Dana Paskins, USAF, laid wreaths in honor of women and first responders.

Paskins told the story of a woman she knew who died in combat in Afghanistan.

“When I laid that wreath, I laid it for Master Sgt. Tara Brown. I worked with Tara before April 27, 2011, when we had the shootout at the airport. I begged her not to take that assignment. She was only going over there to teach them how to use computers. She came back in a box,” Paskins said.

A vest was laid in honor of military and service dogs that have died.

Members of the Seaford High School Navy JROTC served as honor guard for the event.