HIDDEN HEROES

For centuries, Black women have answered the call to serve their country, even when the same country denied them basic rights. Today, they represent one- third of all women in the armed forces, twice their representation in the general U.S. population. Their contributions are not only important to the military but also the Black community as a whole. Black women have faced many challenges while serving in the military, from racism, sexism and unfair policies. They are a vital part of the armed forces; their contributions matter not just to the military but to the Black community, proving that Black women can excel even in the toughest environments. During the Civil War, Harriet Tubman worked as a spy and a nurse, helping Union soldiers. Susie King Taylor was the first Black woman to write about her time as a nurse and teacher during the war. In World War II, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion became the first group of multiethnic, predominately Black women to serve overseas in Europe. They were tasked with getting mail to soldiers in a timely manner. These women worked in difficult conditions, no heat, inad- equate lighting, and they also worked seven days a week....