By: National Coalition of Black Veteran Associations Staff
The National Coalition of Black Veteran Organizations through Golden Buffalo Publications “Salute” Black Women in the Defense of the Nation.” The video highlights the histories of the first Black Women to reach Flag Ranks in the five branches of the Armed Forces. Special recognition is included for Dr. Mae Carol Jemison, the first Black Women to travel in space, and Cathy Williams. Williams disguised as a man was the first Black women to serve in the US (Union) Army in 1866.
View the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McMvGGGWx70
This video is the first in a planned series to recognize Black Women trailblazers in the United States Armed Forces. The role of women who have served in the defense of the nation is understated in American History, especially the contributions and achievements of Black Women. This video profiles the first Black Women who achieved flag officer ranking in the five branches of the Armed Forces:
Brigadier General Hazel W. Johnson Brown, USA
Major General Marcelite J. Harris, USAF
Rear Admiral Lillian Fishburne, USN
Brigadier General Lorna Mahlock, USMC
Rear Admiral Zeita Merchant, USCG.
In the video, Leah N. Nelson joins Charles Blatcher, III, publisher and chair of the National Coalition of Black Veteran Organizations in presenting the history of these extraordinary women. The profiles highlights the educational and service backgrounds of the women in their pursuits of excellence serving in the defense of the Nation.
