Feb. 28, 2025
In honor of National Black History Month, WDVA proudly salutes the generations of Black veterans who have served our nation with courage and dedication. Their stories are inspiring and showcase the best of Wisconsin.
We honor Black Veterans like retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Marcia M. Anderson of Beloit, WI. As the first African American female major general in our nation’s history, she broke barriers by overcoming obstacles and embracing roles traditionally held by men—all while upholding the highest standards of service. Our paths have crossed many times, and I had the pleasure of seeing her again in November 2024 during the commissioning of the USS Beloit, a new Littoral Combat Ship named in honor of her hometown, where she proudly serves as the ship’s sponsor.
And Anna Mae Robertson, of Milwaukee, who served during WWII in the Women’s Army Corps 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. Better known as the “six-triple-eight,” it was also the first female African American battalion in the Army at that time. Given only six months to sort through hundreds of thousands of pieces of mail in Birmingham, England, they did it in three.
To learn more about General Anderson’s remarkable story, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum has her trailblazing veteran oral history available to read online.
My appreciation to all who celebrate Black History Month. Thank you for helping shine a light on the unique and important stories of our fellow Wisconsin veterans.
Yours in Service,
James Bond
Secretary, Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs
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