10/05/2026
October is Women's History Month — and Canada's military history was never just a men's story
For more than 140 years, Canadian women have answered the call to serve. Many did it before they could even vote. ��
�� Why October?
On October 18, 1929, the Persons Case ruled that women were legally "persons" under Canadian law. That's why Canada celebrates Women's History Month every October.
Here's the story of the women who served ��
�� 1885 — Where it began
During the North-West Resistance, volunteer nurses cared for wounded soldiers in Saskatchewan. It was the first time Canadian women served alongside the military.
�� First World War — The "Bluebirds"
About 3,000 Canadian Nursing Sisters served, nicknamed "Bluebirds" for their blue uniforms. They worked close to the front lines, and dozens gave their lives, some when hospitals and a hospital ship came under attack.
��️ Second World War — 50,000 strong
Around 50,000 women served as Nursing Sisters or in the Canadian Women's Army Corps, the RCAF Women's Division, and the Navy's "Wrens." They were nurses, mechanics, drivers, radio operators, clerks and much more. Every job they took on freed up another soldier for the fight.
⚓ Cold War — Called back to duty
Most women's services were disbanded after 1945. In the early 1950s, Canada needed them again. The Wrens returned to the Royal Canadian Navy and played an important role in anti-submarine operations.
�� 1989 — A turning point
A Canadian Human Rights Tribunal ruling opened combat roles to women, putting Canada ahead of many of its allies. In 2001, the last door opened when women became eligible to serve on submarines.
���� Today
Women serve in every role in the Canadian Armed Forces: infantry, pilots, engineers, sailors, commanders.
From field hospitals in 1885 to the front lines today, these women helped shape the country we live in. Their stories deserve to be told. ��
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