Female Veterans Making History with Private Ruth Marshall

By Nekohl JohnsonVFW State Women’s Chairperson for Illinois

On July 25, 2025, history stood still — and then moved forward.

At Aperion Care Oak Lawn, a powerful tribute unfolded in honor of Private Ruth Ellen Lewis Marshall, a 98-year-old World War II veteran of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit to serve overseas during the war. For most of her life, Ms. Ruth never publicly acknowledged her military service. Yet on this day, with family, faith, and community by her side, she received the Congressional Gold Medal, one of our nation’s highest civilian honors.

Presented by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, this recognition was not just symbolic — it was sacred. It gave voice to women who served in silence and endured racism, sexism, and exclusion with strength and grace.

Ms. Ruth joined the Women’s Army Corps at just 17, sorting thousands of pieces of military mail in Europe while also serving as a hairdresser to her fellow soldiers. After the war, she continued her commitment to public service as a U.S. Postal Inspector. Even so, she lived quietly for decades — without VA benefits, without applause, and without ever demanding acknowledgment.

It took love, memory, and advocacy to lift her name.

Her story was brought forward by Chief Braswell, her Power of Attorney and Assistant State Inspector for the VFW Department of Illinois, and Rose Caldwell, her long-time church friend. I had the honor of attending the ceremony in my role as VFW State Women’s Chairperson for Illinois, and to simply witness Ruth’s legacy honored was a moment I will never forget.

Also present were VFW State Commander Eugene Blackwell and Assistant State Surgeon Dr. Damon Arnold, both representing our Department with deep respect. Senator Duckworth, joined by her staff Kristen Hiendl and Jessica Seawell, spoke truth with compassion — reminding us that representation matters, and that BIPOC veterans deserve more than thank-yous. They deserve truth, equity, and visibility — in uniform and beyond.

A Living Testimony

As a woman veteran myself, I felt the full weight of what this ceremony represented. Standing in the room with a 98-year-old pioneer, surrounded by others who have fought to be seen, I was reminded of why I serve. This moment was not about outshining anyone — it was about honoring everyone. And I am humbled to share space with giants like Ms. Ruth and Senator Duckworth.

Our presence that day was not about titles or photos — it was about holding the line between past and future. The world needs to know that women veterans have always been here — serving, surviving, and making history.

Watch the Story. Learn the Legacy.

As you reflect on this moment, I encourage you to watch the film "The Six Triple Eight", directed by Tyler Perry, which will tell the story of this extraordinary battalion. But also — tell your own story. Tell the story of the women who came before you. Support those who still serve today.

Because we are the legacy.

Support Women Veterans. Share Their Stories.

Let us continue to uplift those who served in silence — and let their names echo through history with honor.

🌀 Nekohl JohnsonVFW State Women’s Chairperson for Illinois www.nekohl.com