I've met thousands of strong and inspirational women and read many biographies. Who is your greatest female influence?

In my lifetime, set aside family, there would be no doubt it was Margaret Thatcher. She had power and grace, she was decisive, loved freedom and saw the best in western civilization. She was the Iron Lady. Great example for anyone.

I tagged you on a few already in another thread, Maj Kim Patterson. However, l would have to agree with LTC Tom Jones, in that my mother was the greatest single female influence in my life, with my wife pulling in a close second. My mother was there during my formative years, and my wife of 37 years has provided wise and much needed counsel throughout our marriage.
My mother, although in very poor health, is 91 years of age and still with us.

Personally, that would be my Mother--very bright, uncompromising proponent of tough love but with a giving heart. More recognizably, Eleanor Roosevelt for her expanding and redefining the role of First Lady, for championing human rights and tirelessly supporting the war effort.