Anna Mae Virginia McCabe Hays (February 16, 1920 – January 7, 2018) was an American military nurse who served during both World War II and the Korean War. Born in Buffalo, New York, she rose through the U.S. Army's nursing ranks and, in 1970, became the first woman in the United States Armed Forces to be advanced to a general officer grade.
Career overview
Hays spent her professional life in military nursing. She led the U.S. Army Nurse Corps as its chief from 1967 until 1971, guiding the corps through a period that included changes in military medicine and personnel policies. Her promotion to brigadier general in 1970 marked a historic milestone for women in the armed services.
Awards and recognition
- Two awards of the Legion of Merit
- Historic distinction as the first female general officer in the U.S. Armed Forces
Later life and death
After retiring from active duty, Hays remained a notable figure in the history of military nursing. She died in Washington, D.C. on January 7, 2018, at the age of 97, from complications related to a heart attack.