Anna Mae Hays

Anna Mae Hays

Anna Mae Hays was born on February 16th, 1920

Full Name: Anna Mae Violet Hays
Place of Birth: Buffalo, New York, USA
Nationality: American
Occupation: Army General
Rank: Brigadier General
Notable: First female general in US Army
Education: Allentown Hospital School of Nursing
Awards: Distinguished Service Medal

First female general in the US Army, breaking the glass ceiling for women in the military, and paving the way for future generations of female leaders.

Written by: Thomas Blackwood Thomas Blackwood

Anna Mae Hays: The Trailblazing General Who Shattered Glass Ceilings

Breaking Barriers in the Military

Anna Mae Hays, a pioneering military officer, made history in 1970 by becoming the first woman in the United States Armed Forces to attain a general officer rank. Her trailblazing career paved the way for equal treatment of women in the military, challenging occupational sexism and securing a permanent place for women in the armed services.

Early Life and Education

Born on February 16, 1920, in Buffalo, New York, Anna Mae Violet McCabe was the middle child of three siblings to parents Daniel Joseph McCabe and Matie Florence Humphrey, both officers of The Salvation Army. Her family moved frequently during her childhood, eventually settling in Allentown, Pennsylvania, where she developed a passion for music and attended Allentown High School.

From Music to Nursing

Hays' childhood dreams of attending the Juilliard School to study music were derailed due to financial constraints. Instead, she pursued a career in nursing, enrolling at the Allentown General Hospital School of Nursing in 1939. She graduated with a diploma in nursing in 1941, later earning a Bachelor's degree in nursing education from Columbia University in 1958 and a Master's degree in Nursing from The Catholic University of America in 1968.

A Career of Service and Distinction

In May 1942, Hays joined the Army Nurse Corps and was deployed to India in January 1943 during World War II, serving with the 20th Field Hospital in Ledo. Throughout her remarkable career, she made numerous recommendations that were incorporated into military policy, paving the way for future generations of women in the armed forces.

Rise to General Officer Rank

Hays' exceptional leadership and dedication led to her promotion to brigadier general in 1970, a milestone that shattered glass ceilings and cemented her place in history. She went on to serve as the 13th chief of the United States Army Nurse Corps, leaving an indelible mark on the military and beyond.

Legacy and Impact

Anna Mae Hays' trailblazing career has inspired countless women to pursue careers in the military and beyond. Her tireless advocacy for equal treatment and opportunities has secured a lasting legacy, paving the way for future generations of women to serve with distinction.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her illustrious career, Hays received numerous awards and honors, including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Army Commendation Medal.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

Influence on Modern Society

Anna Mae Hays' groundbreaking achievements have had a profound impact on modern society, inspiring generations of women to pursue careers in the military and other male-dominated fields. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of determination, perseverance, and trailblazing spirit.
Timeline
1920
Born in Buffalo, New York
Anna Mae Hays was born on February 16, 1920, in Buffalo, New York, USA.
1942
Joined Army Nurse Corps
Hays joined the Army Nurse Corps, serving during World War II and later in the Korean War.
1954
Became Chief of Army Nurse Corps
Hays became the Chief of the Army Nurse Corps, the first woman to hold the position.
1960
Promoted to Brigadier General
Hays was promoted to Brigadier General, becoming the first woman to achieve the rank in the US Army.
1971
Retired from Army
Hays retired from the Army, after a distinguished career spanning nearly three decades.
Anna Mae Hays

Anna Mae Hays Quiz

What was Anna Mae Hays' historic achievement in the US Army?

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FAQ
What was Anna Mae Hays historic achievement in the US Army?
Anna Mae Hays became the first female brigadier general in the US Army in 1970, breaking down barriers for women in the military.
How did Anna Mae Hays early life influence her military career?
Anna Mae Hays family moved frequently during her childhood, instilling in her a sense of adaptability and independence that served her well in her military career.
What was Anna Mae Hays role in the Army Nurse Corps?
Anna Mae Hays served as the chief of the Army Nurse Corps, overseeing the corps during a period of significant expansion and modernization.
What awards did Anna Mae Hays receive for her military service?
Anna Mae Hays received the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Army Commendation Medal, among other honors, for her exceptional service.
What is Anna Mae Hays legacy in the history of women in the military?
Anna Mae Hays pioneering achievements have paved the way for future generations of women in the military, solidifying her place as a trailblazer in the history of womens military service.

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