Although it is not intended as an analysis of historical events, it highlights the major milestones in the evolution of the Corps. The notable contributions of Corps members and their colleagues to military and civilian nursing practice, education, administration, and research are recorded. Legislation and other significant events that effected changes in the history of the Corps are mentioned. Emphasis is placed on the continuing efforts of the Corps to provide high-quality nursing care to soldiers, their families, and retired military and their dependents in time of peace and war and in the carrying out of humanitarian missions. Although not every Corps member is mentioned, all the entries reflect the proud heritage of the Corps and provide ideas for scholarly historical research.
History provides a basis for the present and direction for the future.
At the present time, numerous changes in the military and the worldwide community are creating new and complex challenges for the Corps. Chiefs of the Army Nurse Corps, past and present, have provided professional and committed leadership to prepare us for these challenges. However, this booklet cannot include every change, issue, award, or outstanding Army nurse by name. If specific information is needed in more detail, the Army Nurse Corps Historian can be contacted in writing or by phone, fax, or e-mail. The authors remain responsible for errors and omissions.