"Special Edition" Interview with the authors of Camouflaged Sisters

Camouflaged Sisters

Some would have you believe that women are the weaker vessel. Granted, some of us may be less physically endowed than some men, but weaker vessel? I cannot agree with that label. Women have made history by showing their strength during challenging times. Often times, it only took one woman to influence a movement or create a world of change for those around her and for generations to come. This strength often comes in times of oppression or as a means of survival. I think of women like Helen Keller, Rosa Parks, Malala and even Oprah Winfrey who broke the mold of ‘normal’ and created immeasurable opportunities for women today. This act of breaking molds, knocking down limitations, and creating opportunities extends even into the military, where women make up nearly 14.5% of the Armed Forces. Women like Cathay Williams broke down barriers that prohibited women from enlisting into the Armed Forces, although she had to pose as a man to get into the Army. Once she was in, however, she broke down the stereotypes that women were not capable of serving in the military. Over time, women have proven themselves to be invaluable members of the Armed Forces. Black women, who have been among the last ethnic/gender group to make significant strides in the military, continue to show themselves worthy of the accolades enjoyed by their male counterparts over the years. These women were among the ‘firsts,’ creating opportunities for generations of Black women, like us, to come behind them and enjoy successful military careers.

Lila Holley

Shirley LaTour

Tamara Sanford

Kathy Marie Carter

Amanda Randolph

Sylvia McCrea

Vernessa Blackwell