Under perfect blue skies at the Mt. Soledad Veterans National Memorial, we recently hosted our Women’s History Tribute Brunch to honor Lieutenant Colonel Evelyn ‘Jean’ Wright (Ret.), a trailblazing figure in military nursing whose 20-year Air Force career changed the landscape of military medicine.
The ceremony opened with a presentation of colors by the United States Air Force ROTC Detachment 075 from San Diego State University, followed by a moving performance of the National Anthem by Coronado Police Officer Grace Del Bagno. This powerful opening set the tone for a day of recognition and gratitude.
LtCol Wright (Ret.) began her extraordinary career after receiving her nursing training at Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in San Diego in 1951. Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, she was initially attached to the 2796th Medical Group where she worked in surgical wards. Her dedication to serving those in need led her to Flight Nurse training, earning her wings in 1954.
After completing her Master’s Degree in Maternal/Child Nursing, LtCol Wright (Ret.) was assigned to the 1453rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron in Tachikawa, Japan. As a flight nurse, she transported patients across the Pacific to Travis AFB in C-135 aircraft, providing critical care during these long journeys.
One of her most significant contributions came through developing and teaching an advanced obstetrical nursing course—the first of its kind in the military. This pioneering work led to her appointment as a Consultant in Maternal Nursing to the Surgeon General, shaping military healthcare practices for generations to come.
LtCol Wright (Ret.) attended the University of Kansas Medical Center to become a Nurse Practitioner before retiring from the military in 1973. Even in retirement, her spirit of service continued as she volunteered with hospice patients. She also became an accomplished glider pilot, demonstrating that her adventurous spirit remained undimmed.
Our event was enhanced by keynote speaker Amanda Huffman, an Air Force veteran who continues to advocate for women in the military through her writing and podcast work. Her insights on the evolution of opportunities for women in service provided valuable context for appreciating the path that pioneers like LtCol Wright (Ret.) helped forge.
This special tribute would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors and donors:
The event also featured a special plaque dedication and Quilts of Valor presentation to honor LtCol Wright’s service, followed by an Armed Services Medley and “God Bless America” performed by trumpeter Corey Wickline.
This event marks the continuation of our annual tradition honoring women veterans. Previous honorees include:
We are deeply grateful to all who attended and supported this important recognition of LtCol Wright’s (Ret.) contributions. Through events like these, we fulfill our mission of honoring veterans and preserving their legacies for future generations.
The Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial is 100% privately funded. If you’d like to support our mission of honoring veterans and preserving their legacy, please consider making a donation
Photos Credit In Order Of Appearance: Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Flight Nurse, credit US Air Force Museum, 2024 Women’s History Tribute Group Photo, , LtCol Evenlyn Jean King
