Colonel Gilda Jackson enlisted in the Marine Corps in November of 1968, during the Vietnam conflict. She served as an active-duty supply clerk from 1968 to 1972, and then transferred to the reserves while completing college. After graduating, Jackson was commissioned in 1975.
In October of 1997, Jackson made history when she was promoted to the rank of Colonel, becoming the first Black woman in the Marine Corps to achieve this distinction. This accomplishment was extremely meaningful to her, as she strived to success in order to inspire and create opportunities for the female service members who would follow. She was also the first female commanding officer in the 56-year history of the Cherry Point Naval Aviation Depot.
Upon retirement, she became the president and general manager of Lockheed Martin AeroParts, supporting various military aircraft. Jackson later entered the political world as a candidate for the North Carolina House of Representatives.
After retiring, Colonel Gilda Jackson received Recognition for Life Achievements on April 15, 2002, as an outstanding alumna of Ohio’s independent colleges and universities, paving the way for women and minorities in the Armed Forces. She was also inducted into the Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges Hall of Fame on April 10, 2002, in Columbus, OH.
https://www.marines.mil/News/Marines-TV/videoid/554840/
http://mpmamemorial.org/Womens%20History.html
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