Barbara J. Dulinsky was the first female marine to serve for the Marine Corps in a combat zone. Serving at the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam headquarters in Saigon, Dulinsky received the opportunity to be the first women marine to enter a combat zone. On March 18th, 1967 Dulinsky landed in Saigon to begin her work of the Marine Corps Personnel Section on the staff of the commander, naval forces, and Vietnam to provide administrative support to Marines. The few women who were serving in combat zones had volunteered for the job and were verified by many men to be sent over. These women were very brave and had to demonstrate maturity, stability, and the willingness to adapt to different situations. Dulinsky who’s credited to be the first women to take a major step in promoting Women’s duty in the Marines created a legacy to live on. Her leadership showed courageous volunteering that helped evolve Women Marines to take more responsibility when serving.
In a letter she wrote, “Right now, most of us don’t look the picture of ‘the New Image.’ Whew! Hardly! I can’t determine at night, if I’m pooped from the work day or from carrying around these anvils tied to my feet called combat boots. Our Young-uns (and me too inside) were scared, but you’d have been proud of them. They turned to in the mess, cashiering, washing dishes, serving and clearing tables.”
Dulinsky’s words showed that the situation wasn’t an easy transition, but she’s also showing that they should be proud of the women because they are trying their best to prove that women are capable of this work.
We honor you, Barbara Dulinsky.
