Loretta Perfectus Walsh

“The First Enlisted Navy Woman”

In March of 1917, just weeks before the United States entered World War I, a 29-year-old woman walked into a Navy recruiting office in Philadelphia. Her name was Loretta Perfectus Walsh.

She did not disguise herself. She did not petition Congress. She did not ask permission to serve quietly. She raised her right hand and enlisted.

On March 21, 1917, Loretta Walsh became the first woman to officially enlist in the United States Navy. She joined as a Yeoman — part of a new category known as “Yeoman (F)” for female.

The Navy faced an urgent need for clerical and administrative personnel as war loomed. Congress had authorized the enlistment of “persons” qualified for service — and the Navy interpreted that word literally. Women could now serve in uniform.

Walsh’s enlistment was not symbolic. She wore the uniform. She received the same pay as male sailors in her rating. She took the oath. And she became part of the United States Armed Forces.

More than 11,000 women would follow her into Navy service during World War I. They worked as yeomen, radio operators, translators, and clerks — freeing male sailors for sea duty. Their service proved something important.

Women were not only supporting the war effort from home. They were capable of serving in uniform — under military discipline — as members of the armed forces.

After the war, most women were released from active duty.  The door that had opened did not stay fully open. But it had been opened.

Loretta Walsh’s decision in 1917 marked a turning point. She demonstrated that enlisted service was not limited by gender. She showed that women could take the oath — and fulfill it.

At the Armed Forces Heritage Museum, we honor enlisted service because it is the backbone of every branch.

Loretta Walsh was not a general. She was not an admiral. She was an enlisted sailor. And she changed the Navy.

Today, women serve at sea, in aviation squadrons, in submarines, and in leadership positions throughout the fleet. That progression traces back to a recruiting office in Philadelphia — and a woman willing to step forward.

Service takes many forms. Opportunity begins with one step. Chief Yeoman Walsh.