The end of Women’s History Month may be approaching, but the American Legion Auxiliary’s commitment to the spirit this special month celebrates marches on.

After all, history’s trailblazing women are famous for many different causes and accomplishments — but they’ve all believed in embracing something bigger than themselves.

At the ALA, that same type of commitment — to Service Not Self — is the cornerstone of all that we do.

So, we’re celebrating the many women who have made an impact, just as the ALA has been making an impact for 100 years. We are proud of the ALA members whose work has benefited veterans, servicemembers, and their families.

We’re inspired by all the notable women in American history. Women like Susan B. Anthony, who worked tirelessly in pursuit of women’s right to vote.

And Nellie Bly, who uncovered corruption and injustice and took an around-the-world trip that shattered ideas about what women could accomplish.

We’re recognizing Sandra Day O’Connor, our nation’s first woman to be named to the U.S. Supreme Court.

And Rosa Parks, whose refusal to surrender her seat sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott in Alabama and fueled the civil rights movement in America.

We’re remembering Sally Ride, who was the first American woman in space.

And Eleanor Roosevelt, the First Lady who became a leading voice on political, racial, and social justice issues — including those of importance to American troops.

The work of these pioneering women and countless others continues to make a difference. So do the efforts of the women who, in less than a year, built the American Legion Auxiliary from the ground up to establish 1,342 local units in more than 45 states.

Today, a century later, the more than 600,000 members of the American Legion Auxiliary are still making impressive strides. From volunteering and raising funds, to providing scholarships and youth programs, the ALA continues to advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, and security.

Be on the lookout for the May 2019 issue of Auxiliary magazine, where you’ll learn about the pioneering women who founded the American Legion Auxiliary. If you’re looking for more inspiration from other notable women in American history, www.biography.com and www.history.com are great places to start.

Which notable women in American history have inspired you? Why? Let us know in the comments below.