Sisters In Service Event - Operation Rose Garden hosted by the Women Marines Association

West Valley Women Veterans invites the community to attend the Women Marines Association AZ-1 Roadrunner Chapter’s Annual Operation Rose Garden Ceremony, a moving tribute honoring the legacy of Women Marines laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.

Each year, the WMA AZ-1 Chapter commemorates the historic day when women were first authorized to serve in the United States Marine Corps. Through extensive research of more than 78,000 graves, the Chapter has identified over 150 Women Marines buried at the cemetery. After the ceremony, one long-stem red rose is placed at each grave by volunteers in remembrance of their service, sacrifice, and trailblazing legacy.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Please arrive by 8:45 AM

Location: National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona

2929 E Pinnacle Peak Road, Phoenix, AZ

Meet at the Visitor’s Center

What to Expect

• Opening ceremony with remarks from Women Marines
• Community members and volunteers laying red roses at each Woman Marine’s grave
• A meaningful opportunity to honor and remember those who paved the way

Who Can Attend

This event is open to the public and family-friendly.

You do not need to be a Marine to attend.

All eras. All branches. All are welcome.

Call to Action: Community Sponsors Needed

The Women Marines Association AZ-1 Chapter is seeking community sponsors to help support the purchase of 150 long-stem red roses for this ceremony.

To donate or learn more, please email:

[email protected]

Women Marines Association is a nonprofit organization

EIN: 23-7097763

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Host or Publisher West Valley Women Veterans