The National Council for Women mourned with deep sadness on Monday the passing of Ibtisamat Mohamed Abdullah, the first female officer in the Egyptian army.

‘The National Council for Women expressed profound sorrow over the loss of a courageous and persevering Egyptian woman who did not fear bearing arms to defend her beloved homeland, Egypt. She always volunteered in military nursing out of love for her country, serving as an exemplary figure for every Egyptian woman,’ the council said about the late officer who died at 97 years old in Cairo earlier Monday.

National Council for Women honoured Ibtisamat Abdallah in 2016 by awarding her the council’s shield and a certificate of appreciation, in recognition of her role during the 1948 Palestine War and her service in the Egyptian army.

Source: State Information Service Egypt