Women Reserves Monument

​ Women Reserves Monument – Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego


The Women Marines Association, CA-2 San Diego County is on a mission. It is only with your help that they can bring this monument into reality.

They are providing a memorial monument to honor the World War II Women Reserves on Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego.

In 1945, there were 18,000 women serving in the Women Reserves, 690 of these women were stationed at Marine Corps Base, San Diego from 1943 through 1946. Not many people realize just how many women were serving on the base at that time. WMA San Diego feels it is important to recognize this unique time in the base’s history.

Capt. Lillian Daly, who been enlisted since World War I, was the first WR to come aboard the base. Daly reported to Camp Pendleton on March 5,1943 and the first contingent of 95 female Marines arrived at Camp Pendleton in October that year. The group was welcomed by Maj. Gen. Joseph C. Fegan, the base’s first commanding general and other high ranking officers. The women became part of the Women Marine Reserve, which was formed Feb. 13, 1943, under Col. Ruth Cheney Streeter.

Sgt. (Shaw) Ghio holds a flag during a Colors Ceremony she led at Camp Pendleton circa 1944.
(Courtesy of Phyllis Ghio)

Read the personal story of Phyllis Ghio as she recounts being one of the first WR’s aboard the base.

In order to have this monument on the base, CA-2 essentially offered a gift that was approved and accepted by the Commanding General. This gift, by law, has to be at no cost to the government. This means that we must pay for everything to include the installation. The monument will be placed in front of the building that served as the barracks, quarters for the officers, and other Battalion facilities for these women.

Your support is crucial to our efforts to preserve this history. If able, we would appreciate a donation of any amount, to help us achieve our mission.

Donate today. Help us recognize our past warriors

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The Monument will be similar to the one above. Cost is $8,000

WMA San Diego County Chapter CA2 with a reference to WR Monument on the Memo Line. Mail to:

Women Marines Association San Diego County Chapter CA2 . P.O. Box. 87089 . San Diego, CA 92138

The Association is a non- profit organization and your donation will be tax deductible as allowable by law. You shall receive a receipt with the Tax ID information.

For more information you can contact WMA CA-2 San Diego County at CA2@womenmarines.org