The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) and VetFund Foundation join the family of Shirley Shaw in mourning her passing.

In 1965, Shaw graduated from St. Margaret’s School of Nursing in Montgomery, Alabama. Shaw was then commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

She did one tour in Vietnam where she helped set up the 12th Evacuation Hospital at the Headquarters for the 25th Infantry Division. Shaw described her time there as the most tiring, saddest, but most rewarding time of her life.

After leaving the Army to begin her family, she pursued a nursing career in oncology. Shaw was the first female to be admitted to her local VFW Post and was soon involved in running the organization. Later, she became the first female elected VFW Commander in the State of California and the first female nationally to win “All American” status at Post, District and State level.

This year, Shaw was honored by CalVet at the March 20th Women’s Military History Week Reception as a true trailblazer for women in the military and veteran community.

During her lifetime, Shaw distinguished herself as a strong advocate for veterans and was a role model for women veterans as well.

“On behalf of the Department, I offer my sincere condolences and prayers to the family and friends of Shirley Shaw,” said CalVet Secretary Peter J. Gravett. “We are saddened by her passing, but grateful for her service to our nation. She will be greatly missed by her colleagues, friends and family. God rest her soul.”

Shaw served as past chair of the VetFund Foundation and continued to serve on its board until her death.

“The VetFund Foundation Board of Directors is saddened by Shirley’s passing,” said Chair Philip Brozenick. “We remember her as a strong and courageous woman whose contributions helped lead the Board since its inception.”