Trailblazing Legacy: Remembering Nancy Leftenant-Colon, the Groundbreaking Army Nurse and Air Force Pioneer Who Lived to 104

Nancy Leftenant-Colon, a trailblazing figure as the first Black woman in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps, recently passed away at the age of 104. Born in 1920, she defied racial obstacles and emerged as a significant contributor to military nursing over the decades, spanning from World War II through the Vietnam War. Leftenant-Colon's remarkable career earned her numerous accolades, including honorary doctorates, and she played a vital role in advancing the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. Her impact remains profound, inspiring many to confront challenges head-on. As a true pioneer, she not only transformed military healthcare but also paved the way for subsequent generations of minority nurses, illustrating the power of perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity.