In the past decade, the number of female veterans in public service has grown significantly. These women, once celebrated for their battlefield bravery, are now gaining recognition for reshaping civic systems, running for office, and crafting community solutions. Their transition from the military to leadership roles in government brings unmatched resilience, discipline, and commitment—qualities deeply needed in modern governance.
But this shift isn’t just a personal journey—it’s a national transformation. Veterans are trained to serve, and many women continue that mission beyond the uniform.
Why Female Veterans Make Exceptional Public Servants
Women in government roles who come from a military background bring something unique to the table: lived experience in high-pressure decision-making, teamwork, and crisis response. Unlike civilian leaders who climb through academic or political ladders, female veterans arrive with hands-on leadership credentials and public trust.
Strategic problem-solving
Experience under extreme pressure
Understanding of national defense and policy dynamics
Their leadership is action-based, not just theoretical. And that’s what our institutions need.
Breaking Barriers: From Combat Zones to Council Chambers
Transitioning from active duty to public office is not always smooth for women veterans. They often face a double challenge: adjusting to civilian life and overcoming systemic gender biases in politics.
Common obstacles include:
- Gender stereotypes in electoral campaigns
- Minimal media coverage of female military leaders
- Limited access to campaign funding and support networks
Despite the odds, their impact is growing—across city councils, public health departments, state legislatures, and national leadership.
Mattese Lecque: A Shining Example of Service and Civic Leadership
One exceptional example is Mattese Lecque, a retired Major (O-4) in the U.S. Army Reserves and a former Executive Staff Member at the U.S. Department of Justice. With degrees from the College of Allied Health Sciences at MUSC and St. Joseph’s College, Mattese exemplifies how military excellence can lead to meaningful civic change.
Her post-service journey includes advocating for healthcare access, mentoring young professionals, and empowering underrepresented communities. Mattese’s life story demonstrates how veterans in leadership can uplift systems with honor, purpose, and wisdom. She continues to be a beacon of what’s possible for women who want to serve their nation on new frontlines.
Spotlight: Other Female Veterans Making an Impact
1. Rep. Mikie Sherrill (Navy Veteran)
Former Navy pilot, federal prosecutor, and now Congresswoman driving policy on national security and education.
2. Senator Joni Ernst (Iraq War Veteran)
First woman combat veteran in the U.S. Senate. Advocates for veterans’ healthcare, rural development, and defense reform.
3. Deshauna Barber (Army Reserve Captain)
Miss USA 2016, military logistics commander, and advocate for mental health in the veteran community.
These women prove that the same qualities that lead soldiers can also lead cities, states, and nations.
Programs That Empower Female Veterans in Civil Leadership
To ease the transition from military to politics, many organizations provide training, mentorship, and resources specifically for women veterans in public service.
She Should Run
Equips women—especially veterans—with tools to run for office.
Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship (V-WISE)
Focuses on business leadership but fosters civic responsibility and initiative.
New Politics Leadership Academy
Trains veterans and service-oriented individuals for political campaigns.
These resources recognize that leadership doesn’t end at discharge—it evolves into civic power.
The Local Impact: Female Veterans in Community Governance
Many female veterans make change at the grassroots level, leading city projects, health boards, disaster response programs, and education reform initiatives.
They bring:
- Practical emergency planning
- Inclusive leadership for underserved groups
- Veteran-focused healthcare advocacy
- Community trust through ethical leadership
Whether running a school board or a mayor’s office, they champion policies based on fairness, service, and real-life experience.
Future Trends: A Growing Force in Politics and Policy
As more women leave the armed forces with tech fluency, strategic knowledge, and service-minded values, the future of public service is female and veteran-led.
Expect to see:
- More diverse veteran candidates in state and federal elections
- Veteran-led reform in healthcare, cyber security, and justice
- Intersectional advocacy rooted in service-based ethics
The public is ready—and hungry—for leaders who’ve already proven they can put others before themselves.
Service Never Stops for Female Veterans
From boots to ballots, female veterans are not just transitioning—they’re transforming America’s leadership. Their journeys from military ranks to government roles redefine what it means to serve a country.
Through the work of pioneers like Mattese Lecque and countless others, it’s clear: service doesn’t stop at retirement—it just takes on a new mission.
Support the legacy of female veterans in public service. Share their stories, vote for them, and contribute to the organizations helping them lead. Their service continues—and your support helps fuel it.
