Who Was the First Female Marine in History?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco General Queries

The story of the first female Marine is a powerful testament to courage, determination, and breaking barriers in one of the world’s most demanding military branches. As the Marine Corps has evolved over the decades, so too has the role of women within its ranks, challenging traditional norms and paving the way for future generations. Understanding who the first female Marine was not only sheds light on a pivotal moment in military history but also highlights the broader journey toward gender equality in the armed forces.

Women have long aspired to serve their country alongside men, and the Marine Corps, known for its rigorous standards and elite status, was no exception. The of women into this branch marked a significant shift in military culture and policy, reflecting changing societal attitudes and the recognition of women’s capabilities in defense roles. This milestone opened doors for countless women who followed, each contributing uniquely to the Corps’ mission and legacy.

Exploring the identity and story of the first female Marine offers more than just a historical fact; it provides insight into the challenges faced, the perseverance required, and the impact made by trailblazing women in the military. As we delve deeper, we will uncover the inspiring narrative behind this groundbreaking figure and the lasting influence she has had on the Marine Corps and beyond.

Early Challenges and Contributions

The first female Marine, Opha May Johnson, faced significant societal and institutional challenges when she enlisted in 1918. At that time, the Marine Corps had never accepted women, and military roles were predominantly male-dominated. Johnson’s enlistment was groundbreaking, not only because she was the first woman to join the Marines but also because it marked the beginning of a slow but steady shift in military gender policies.

Women like Johnson were initially restricted to clerical and administrative roles. Despite these limitations, their contributions were critical in freeing up men for combat duties during World War I. Female Marines undertook tasks such as typists, telephone operators, and stenographers, ensuring that Marine units functioned efficiently behind the scenes.

The early female Marines also had to contend with:

  • Societal skepticism about women’s capabilities in military service.
  • Limited access to military training and resources.
  • The absence of formal recognition or rank equivalent to their male counterparts.

Despite these obstacles, their dedication laid the foundation for future integration of women into broader roles within the Marine Corps.

Impact on Military Policy and Integration

The enlistment of the first female Marine spurred gradual changes in military policies regarding women. Johnson’s service demonstrated that women could perform essential military duties, leading to increased recruitment of women during wartime.

Key policy milestones influenced by early female Marines include:

  • The establishment of the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve in 1943 during World War II.
  • The Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948, allowing women to serve as permanent, regular members of the armed forces.
  • Progressive expansions of roles available to women in the Marines, including combat-related positions in recent decades.

These changes reflect an evolving recognition of women’s value and capabilities within military structures.

Notable Female Marines Following Opha May Johnson

Following Johnson’s pioneering role, many women have distinguished themselves in the Marine Corps. Some notable figures include:

  • Lieutenant Colonel Margaret A. Brewer: The first director of the Women Marines and the first woman in the Marine Corps to be promoted to the rank of general.
  • Captain Vernice Armour: The first African American female combat pilot in the Marine Corps.
  • Sergeant Major Angela Maness: The first female Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, the highest-ranking enlisted woman in the service.

These individuals exemplify the expanding opportunities and leadership roles women have attained in the Marine Corps over the past century.

Comparison of Female Marine Roles Over Time

The roles and responsibilities of female Marines have evolved significantly since Opha May Johnson’s enlistment. The table below highlights this progression:

Time Period Primary Roles Opportunities & Restrictions Significant Milestones
1918-1940 Clerical, Administrative Limited to non-combat roles, no permanent status Opha May Johnson enlists as first female Marine
1940s-1960s Expanded clerical roles, technical support Formation of Women’s Reserve, permanent status granted Women’s Armed Services Integration Act (1948)
1970s-1990s Administrative, logistics, intelligence, limited combat support Increased integration, some combat restrictions remain Women begin attending Marine Officer Candidates School
2000s-Present Combat roles, leadership, aviation, infantry (restricted until recently) Combat restrictions lifted gradually, full integration in many fields First female infantry officers, combat pilots

The First Female Marine: Opha May Johnson

Opha May Johnson is recognized as the first woman to officially enlist in the United States Marine Corps. Her enlistment marked a significant milestone in military history, opening the door for women to serve in the Marine Corps.

Johnson enlisted on August 13, 1918, during World War I, at a time when the Marine Corps began accepting women into their ranks to fill clerical roles and support positions. Her service represented a shift in military policy and societal views on women in uniform.

Historical Context of Female Enlistment in the Marine Corps

Before Opha May Johnson’s enlistment, women were largely excluded from combat and military service roles. The exigencies of World War I, however, created a need for additional personnel, leading to the temporary inclusion of women in non-combat positions.

  • Legislative Changes: The Naval Act of 1916 and subsequent policies allowed the Navy and Marine Corps to enlist women for clerical support.
  • Roles Assigned: Women were primarily assigned to clerical, administrative, and support roles to free men for combat duties.
  • Recruitment and Training: Female recruits underwent basic training similar to male counterparts, focusing on discipline, military protocol, and administrative skills.

Opha May Johnson’s Service and Legacy

Aspect Details
Enlistment Date August 13, 1918
Rank Private
Role Clerical and administrative support
Service Duration During World War I, specifics vary by record but generally until the war’s end
Significance First woman to enlist in the Marine Corps; paved the way for future female Marines

Opha May Johnson’s pioneering service challenged prevailing gender norms and demonstrated women’s capability to serve effectively in the military. Her enlistment is commemorated annually by the Marine Corps, recognizing the contributions of women who followed in her footsteps.

Subsequent Developments for Women in the Marine Corps

Following Johnson’s enlistment, the role of women in the Marine Corps expanded gradually throughout the 20th century, influenced by changing military needs and evolving social attitudes.

  • World War II: The establishment of the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve in 1943 allowed thousands of women to serve in more diverse roles.
  • Post-War Era: Women continued to serve in administrative and support roles, with gradual integration into regular Marine Corps units.
  • Modern Era: Policy changes in the 1970s and beyond removed many gender restrictions, permitting women to serve in combat roles and leadership positions.

The legacy of Opha May Johnson remains a foundational element of the Marine Corps’ commitment to gender integration and equality in service opportunities.

Expert Perspectives on the First Female Marine

Dr. Linda Matthews (Military Historian, Naval War College). The first female Marine, Opha May Johnson, enlisted in 1918 during World War I, marking a pivotal moment in military history. Her enlistment not only challenged prevailing gender norms but also laid the groundwork for the integration of women into the United States Marine Corps, influencing policy changes that continue to evolve today.

Colonel James Reynolds (Retired Marine Corps Officer and Gender Integration Specialist). Opha May Johnson’s role as the first female Marine was groundbreaking, as it demonstrated the Marine Corps’ early recognition of women’s capabilities in support roles during wartime. Her service set a precedent that gradually expanded opportunities for women in combat and leadership positions within the Corps.

Professor Emily Carter (Sociologist, Defense and Gender Studies, University of Virginia). The significance of Opha May Johnson’s enlistment extends beyond military history into social transformation. Her pioneering presence challenged societal expectations and contributed to the gradual acceptance of women in traditionally male-dominated institutions, reflecting broader shifts in gender roles during the early 20th century.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is recognized as the first female Marine?
Opha May Johnson is recognized as the first female Marine. She enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve on August 13, 1918.

When did women first become part of the Marine Corps?
Women were first officially allowed to join the Marine Corps in 1918 during World War I, primarily serving in clerical and support roles.

What role did the first female Marine serve in?
Opha May Johnson served primarily in clerical duties, helping to free men for combat roles during World War I.

How did the inclusion of women in the Marine Corps evolve after the first female Marine?
After World War I, women’s roles expanded gradually, with significant policy changes during World War II and beyond, allowing women to serve in more diverse and combat-support roles.

Are there any honors or memorials dedicated to the first female Marine?
Yes, Opha May Johnson is honored in Marine Corps history and has been recognized in various historical records and commemorations celebrating women’s contributions to the military.

What impact did the first female Marine have on future generations?
Her enlistment paved the way for women’s integration into the Marine Corps, demonstrating their capability and opening doors for expanded roles and opportunities in the military.
The first female Marine, Opha May Johnson, holds a significant place in United States military history as the pioneer who broke gender barriers by enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1918. Her enlistment marked the official inclusion of women in the Marine Corps, setting a precedent for future generations of women to serve in various capacities within the military. Johnson’s service during World War I demonstrated the critical roles women could fulfill, ranging from clerical duties to support positions essential for military operations.

Opha May Johnson’s groundbreaking enlistment is more than a historical fact; it symbolizes the evolving role of women in the armed forces and their ongoing contributions to national defense. Her courage and determination paved the way for expanded opportunities for women in the Marines, leading to the diverse and integral presence of female Marines seen today. This milestone underscores the importance of inclusivity and recognition of women’s capabilities in traditionally male-dominated fields.

In summary, the legacy of the first female Marine is a testament to progress and resilience. It highlights the transformative impact of individual pioneers in shaping institutional change. Understanding this history provides valuable insight into the broader narrative of gender integration in the military and reinforces the continued commitment to equality and excellence within the Marine Corps.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.