The 21st Century Army Gallery explores the Army’s remarkable transformation as more than two million Soldiers—255,000 of them women—deployed overseas, many for multiple tours. Visitors learn the reality of nonlinear battlefields and the cultural conditions in Iraq and Afghanistan that resulted in a profound transformation of roles for Army women. Artifacts in this gallery illustrate the Army’s measured and deliberate movement towards a standards-based system and the parallel effort to rescind other exclusionary policies while caring for and retaining its premier twenty-first century fighting force.

Patrick Head Scarf and Shirt

Purchased in Afghanistan, this head scarf and shirt were worn by Chief Warrant Officer 4 Raquel Patrick when she served as Maintenance Chief on a Cultural Support Team that supported Special Forces missions in Afghanistan from 2011-2012.

Bidwell Hat

This dress cap was worn by Captain Marjana Bidwell when she served with the 3d Infantry Regiment at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in 2015.

Dunwoody Service Coat

General Ann E. Dunwoody, the first woman in the history of the United States Armed Forces to achieve the rank of full (4-star) general wore this jacket during her last assignment before retiring.