Diane Carlson Evans, a former Army nurse and tireless advocate for women in the military, has died at the age of 79 from a rare cancer linked to exposure to Agent Orange during her service.Evans was the driving force behind the creation of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C., a project she initially believed would take only two years but ultimately required nearly a decade of relentless effort.

She spent years fundraising, delivering speeches, and campaigning at the grassroots level to gain support from both skeptical government officials and the public.

Her dedication not only honored the contributions and sacrifices of female service members during the Vietnam War but also helped raise broader awareness of their vital role in military history.Evans' work leaves a lasting legacy, ensuring that the bravery and service of countless women are remembered and respected.Her passing marks the loss of a pioneer who championed recognition and equality for military women.