Rep. Linda Dean Campbell. (WHAV News photograph.)
A new state law designates July 1 every year as “United States Cadet Nurse Corps Day,” honoring and recognizing women who trained as nurses and served in hospitals on the home front beginning during World War II.
Championing the law in the House was Rep. Linda Dean Campbell, chair of the Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs. She said in a statement, the women who provided “dedicated service prevented the collapse of the health care industry, ensuring that both civilians and soldiers returning home could receive the care they needed.”
The legislature passed the bill and Gov. Charlie Baker signed it on the eve of the 77th anniversary of the founding of the Corps in 1943. The law also allows a plaque to be installed at the State House to recognize the 9,000 Cadet Nurse Corps members from Massachusetts. Campbell said it is the first plaque of its kind in a government building to commemorate the Corps, and it will be funded by the Friends of the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps WWII.
“I am proud to have worked with the Friends of the United States Cadet Nurse Corps World War II on this legislation, and I am even prouder that the service of these incredible women will be recognized here in Massachusetts,” Campbell said.
The bill was filed in the Senate by Sen. Bruce Tarr.