PURCHASE, NY: March has become a time for the nation to recognize women as a force in history and this year Manhattanville My Soldier is paying special attention to the women serving in the armed forces. Congress declared the month of March "Women's History Month" to promote the teaching of women's history and to recognize the role American women played in transforming culture, history and politics.

 In observance of this annual event, and to spotlight women in the branches of the military services, Manhattanville My Soldier has created My Soldier: Her-Story a program that encourages Americans to honor and thank deployed female soldiers for their patriotic service by sending letters and care packages. Since the Revolutionary War, American women have served with honor and distinction in every military conflict. According to US Department of Veteran's Affairs there are approximately 1.7 million women veterans; currently women make up 15 percent of the active duty force and approximately 23 percent of the reserve force.

 "The military women I met while serving in Iraq were courageous and kind" said My Soldier co-founder, active duty army sergeant and Manhattanville College student Juan Salas. "We are asking civilians to pay respect to these brave women during Women's History Month. Please, send a letter to let a female soldier know that you are thinking of her, or to thank her for all she is sacrificing to make the world a safer place."

While the traditional My Soldier program attempts to foster an ongoing pen-pal relationship with an individual soldier, My Soldier: Her-Story is tailored to those groups or individuals who want to send some support without making a continuing commitment. Suggested support consists of handwritten letters, thank you cards and perhaps children's artwork. Participants may also choose to send care packages, which are greatly appreciated (but not expected) by the soldiers.