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Blazing Trails and Leaving Legacies: Celebrating the 35th Anniversary of Proclamation 5606

February 3, 2021 | Story by Megan Trexler | Commander, Navy Installations Command

WASHINGTON -- February 3, 2021, marks the 35th annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day, a day for recognizing the role athletics play in lifting voices, breaking down barriers, honoring the progress, and continuing the struggle for equality for women in sports.

"Every year, this celebration inspires girls and women to play and be active, to realize their full power," said the Women's Sports Foundation.

In 1987, President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5606 - National Women in Sports Day, recognizing that the history of women in sports is rich and long, as well as acknowledging that sports has provided millions with an opportunity for growth, development and the pursuit of challenging goals.

"Participation in sports contributes to the emotional, physical and intellectual development of women of all ages. Through individual and team activities, young girls develop self-discipline, initiative, respect for fair play and cooperation, and communication and leadership skills that will help them succeed throughout their lives. Early positive experiences strongly influence wholesome lifelong habits of physical fitness, and thus have a direct bearing on the health and well-being of this Nation," said President Reagan.

In the 35 years since Proclamation 5606 was signed, the day of observance has evolved to recognize all women athletes, their past and present sports achievements, the positive influence of sports participation for women, girls and society.

We are proud of our female Navy Wounded Warrior athletes for continuing to push boundaries and defying the odds.

Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Lauren Gonzales participates in a Team Navy swim practice during training camp for the 2019 Department of Defense Warrior Games.

Photo Credit: Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tyrell K. Morris

Retired Yeoman 3rd Class Alexis King competes in a tennis match during the 2019 Navy tennis trials at Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., March 18, 2019.

Photo Credit: Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Arthurgwain L. Marquez

Hospitalman Kayla Williams participates in an archery training competition during a Navy Wounded Warrior program introductory sports camp.

Photo Credit: Mass Communication 2nd Class Justin R. Pacheco

Chief Quartermaster Angela Everett shows off her medals at the 2019 Warrior Games as a member of Team Navy.

Photo Credit: Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tyrell K. Morris

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