Bipartisan Lawmakers Honor 125th Anniversary of Army Nurse Corps

Resolution recognizes the corps' service in every major U.S. conflict since 1901.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Bipartisan lawmakers in the Senate and House introduced a resolution honoring the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps, recognizing its service in every major U.S. conflict since its founding in 1901. The resolution was led by Sens. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., and Reps. David Joyce, R-Ohio, and Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore.

Why it matters

The Army Nurse Corps has played a vital role in providing critical care to U.S. service members throughout history, and this resolution recognizes their dedication and sacrifice. It also comes after the introduction of the Bipartisan Nurse Corps Tax Parity Act in 2025, which aims to support nursing professionals.

The details

The resolution marks the 125th anniversary of the Army Nurse Corps, which was established on February 2, 1901 and marked the entry of the first nurses and women into the U.S. military. The corps has served in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Balkans conflicts, and the War on Terror.

  • The Army Nurse Corps was established on February 2, 1901.
  • Bipartisan lawmakers introduced the resolution honoring the 125th anniversary on Thursday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Roger Wicker

A Republican senator from Mississippi and co-chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus.

Jeff Merkley

A Democratic senator from Oregon and co-chair of the Senate Nursing Caucus.

David Joyce

A Republican representative from Ohio.

Suzanne Bonamici

A Democratic representative from Oregon.

American College of Nurse-Midwives

A nursing organization that praised the 125th anniversary as a testament to the courage, skill, compassion, and pride of Army nurses.

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What they’re saying

“The Army Nurse Corps have been essential to our defense personnel and U.S. health care system. I commend the commitment, skill, and sacrifice of Army nurses throughout history and their continuous vital contributions to our service members.”

— Roger Wicker, Co-chair of the Congressional Nursing Caucus (darkhorsepressnow.com)

“With our bipartisan resolution, we honor these heroes for their dedication to making the world a better place and commit to ensuring they can continue this essential work for future generations of brave servicemembers.”

— Jeff Merkley, Co-chair of the Senate Nursing Caucus (darkhorsepressnow.com)

“This anniversary is a testament to the courage, skill, compassion, and pride that Army nurses bring to every mission.”

— Michelle Munroe, CEO of the American College of Nurse-Midwives and retired Army colonel (darkhorsepressnow.com)

What’s next

The resolution will now go through the legislative process in Congress.

The takeaway

The bipartisan recognition of the Army Nurse Corps' 125-year history of service and sacrifice highlights the vital role nurses play in supporting U.S. troops and the broader health care system. This anniversary underscores the ongoing need to support and honor nursing professionals.