Soldier's Life: A Black Woman's Rise from Army Brat to Six Triple Eight Champion

Hello,

I am the author of the book, a Soldier's Life, A Black Woman's Rise from Army Brat to Six Triple Eight Champion (published by the University of Virginia, May 25). The book chronicles my life as an Army brat born at Fort Bragg, NC, who joined the Army as a member of the Women's Army Corps. I married an Army Ranger who died at the age of 36. His death, my career as a single parent while serving, and life beyond the Army led me to advocate for a relatively unknown group of Black women who served overseas during World War II, the 6888th Central Postal Service Directory Battalion (Six Triple Eight).

The 6888th's legacy resulted in them receiving the nation's highest civilian award, the Congressional Gold Medal. General George Washington was the first recipient in 1776. Other recognitions include a monument at Fort Leavenworth, KS, an award-winning documentary (Tubi and Prime), a Netflix movie, countless local and state recognitions, a street in Petit Quevilly France, a Blue Plaque in Birmingham England, and much more.

Their story is more than history; it's now part of my heritage.