Virginia Wimmer will be the keynote speaker on March 2.
In celebration of Women’s History Month, the American Legion will host an event for women veterans called “Challenges and Opportunities.”
This free event, which is open to the community, will take place on March 2, starting at 10 a.m. at Ronald Reagan-Palisades Post 283, 15247 La Cruz Drive.
Event organizer Joe Ramirez said, “We encourage attendees to visit vendor booths that support women veteran interests. There will be raffle prizes, and a fun activity area designed for kids by the Mindful Veteran Project.”
Keynote Speaker Virginia Wimmer, Deputy Secretary, Women Veterans Affairs at the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet), will be addressing the attendees. Wimmer was appointed on August 24, 2021, by Governor Gavin Newsom as Deputy Secretary.
Wimmer served 26 years in the U.S. Air Force as Security Forces, cross-trained to Health Care Services Manager, and finally retired as a Senior Master Sergeant (E-8) in 2012. She did tours in South Korea and Italy and deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
She earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California. She has been the education and training chair at the California Association of County Veterans Services Officers. She currently resides in Vacaville with her husband, Mike, and two dogs. She has two children.
Ranee Rubio, a retired U.S. Army major and Post 283 member, will emcee. Rubio, a 17-year veteran, began her career at West Point. She had deployments in the Balkans, Middle East and South Asia. In a story on Linkedin, she shared the top three most valuable takeaways from her military career: “if I could get through West Point, then I can get through anything; the importance of teamwork; and the importance of diverse teams.”
Her family immigrated to the United States from the Philippines. Ranee said that the Army gave her a chance see the world and pursue ambitious academic goals and allowed her to tap into her full potential – something she describes as a dream come true.
Participants will have the opportunity to connect with professionals and have questions answered on medical care, employment, educational opportunities, and other veteran benefits including a one-year free membership to the American Legion for those eligible.
Ramierz said, “Help us in recognizing and supporting the incredible women who have served our country. We look forward to seeing you there!”
There is limited seating available and those interested are encouraged to register click here.