Vietnam War combat nurse and Legionnaire Diane Carlson Evans spearheaded the creation of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C., to provide healing, honor, and recognition to the women who served and the lives they saved. Carlson Evans of Helena, Mont., is a 41-year member of The American Legion who received The American Legion’s Distinguished Service Medal and Patriot Award and served on the Legion’s 100th Anniversary Honorary Committee. In recognition of her veteran advocacy efforts, the National Executive Committee of The American Legion passed Resolution No.14 during its 2024 Spring Meetings in May that supports and encourages awarding the Presidential Medal of Freedom – the nation’s highest civilian honor – to Carlson Evans.

Sen. Jon Tester of Montana, a longtime supporter of The American Legion, sent a letter of endorsement to President Biden for Carlson Evans to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. American Legion National Commander Daniel Seehafer joined Sen. Tester by sending a letter of support to the President. 

Commander Seehafer is calling on you to write to President Biden to show your support for Carlson Evans' receipt of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Carlson Evans said she would only accept the award if it were to honor all women who served during the Vietnam War. Send your message to the White House today!