The group, Pin Ups for Vets, was scheduled to visit patients at the San Diego Veterans Affairs facility later this month, but the appointment was canceled over fears that the women would prompt "catcalling" from male veterans.
"After taking a closer look at this request, VA San Diego Healthcare System welcomes a visit from this group, just as the department does for many other groups throughout the year at VA facilities across the country," Christopher Menzie, spokesman for the San Diego VA healthcare system, told the Washington Examiner in a statement.
The initial cancellation came as a shock to Pin Ups for Vets, which previously visited the San Diego facility. Group members, who predominantly are female veterans, said they never have experienced harassment from patients since the group was started 14 years ago. The organization’s founder, Gina Elise, told the Washington Examiner she was glad to hear the VA reversed the decision.
"I feel so happy that they re-evaluated their decision and are going to allow our female veterans to visit their fellow veterans at the hospital," Elise said. "We are so excited for the visit, and we’re just so thankful and grateful to the hospital for allowing us to visit with the patients, and we hope to bring some joy and appreciation."
Pin Ups for Vets is a veteran support group that raises money for veterans causes, primarily through the sale of a calendar featuring female veterans in 1940s-style clothing. Elise came up with the idea by combining her interest in fashion from the era and her desire to help veterans like her late grandfather who served in World War II.