Women's History Month: Recalling women in uniform Published March 31, 2009 By Capt. Jennifer Pearson 380th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Members of the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing women's history committee hosted a lunch symposium March 28 here to highlight the contributions of female servicemembers both past and present. A panel consisting of senior leaders, squadron commanders and functional specialists shared their experiences and thoughts on the contributions of their predecessors and where they see the future opportunities of females to excel for Women's History Month. "We wanted an opportunity to recognize those who paved the way for us to come into the service," said Capt. Sherry Souriolle, the 380th AEW Sexual Assault Response Coordinator and symposium coordinator. "What a great way to highlight the contributions of females but in a deployed environment." Brig. Gen. H. D. Polumbo Jr., the 380th AEW commander, provided the opening remarks and stated that "women have always made significant contributions to the military." General Polumbo is a 1981 U.S. Air Force Academy graduate, the second Academy class that included women cadets, and the first to be trained by female upper classmen. The panel answered questions ranging from women serving in combat, personal hurdles experienced in their career, and key factors to their individual successes. Members of the panel said staying true to self, commitment to what you do, family, identifying mentors and setting goals were integral to their success and a rewarding career. "I am a first generation immigrant to the United States," said Army 1st Lt. Catalina Rosales. "After graduating high school, getting my bachelor's and then master's degree I wanted to give back to this country for all I was given. I decided a great way for me to give back is by serving in the Army." Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) View the comments/letters page