ANNIE GAYTON FOX

First Lieutenant Annie Gayton Fox, a pioneering Army veteran and the first woman to receive the Purple Heart and Bronze Star, will forever be remembered by many for her accomplishments, selflessness, and heroism through her service in the Attack on Pearl Harbor. Fox was born on August 4, 1893, in Pubnico, Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia. She was a chief nurse stationed at Hickam Field, where the Attack on Pearl Harbor occurred. The Attack on Pearl Harbor was what led to the United States’ entry into World War II, commencing at 7:48 am, it resulted in the devastating loss of more than 2,400 deaths, with an additional 1,178 wounded soldiers. During the attack, Fox was responsible for administering anesthesia, dressing wounds, and teaching others to do their jobs, but what truly made her stand out among others was her calm yet efficient style of work in this intense and devastating attack. On October 26, 1942, Fox was noticed for “her outstanding performance of duty and meritorious acts of extraordinary essential service,” being awarded the Purple Heart award and becoming the first woman to receive this prestigious award. However, as the requirements changed, Fox was also the first woman to have the Purple Heart revoked. The War Department board met and reviewed the changed criteria which stated that only those killed or wounded in battle qualified for this award, they decided that she no longer met the criteria. Instead, on October 26, 1944, they recommended that she receive a Bronze Star for her loyalty and devotion to duty that reflected great credit upon herself and the military service. Fox broke down and forever changed the stigma surrounding not only the Purple Heart as it used to be only awarded to men, but First Lieutenant Annie Gayton Fox changed the face of this as well as the Bronze Star award when given it for her sacrificial and courageous service. Annie Gayton Fox's dedication to the U.S. Army can be seen through her service and her recognition of her undying commitment including times when she kept her composure under pressure and taught other nurses below her. Her legacy and service will live on.