Sergeant Aja Smith and Black Military Legacy

From Crispus Attucks and Salem Poor in the Revolutionary War, to Harriet Tubman and the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment in the Civil War, to the Buffalo Soldiers, to the Harlem Hellfighters—the 369th Infantry in World War I, to the Tuskegee Airmen in World War II, and onward, Blacks have willingly and proudly fought, bled, and died for the United States of America, even in a military rife with racial bias and prejudice.

For the final part of this RedState series, which commemorates Black History Month I wanted to show a female soldier.

Sergeant Aja (Air Force Ret. The perfect match was made. I sat down for an interview to discuss not only Black History and her choice to pursue a military career, but her family’s legacy of military service. All of her great-grandparents, grandparents, father, mother, aunt, and great uncle have served in various branches or the armed forces, from World War II to Iraq.

They discussed the importance and honoring those who have crossed the border to celebrate Black History Month. Sgt. Smith shared pictures from her family’s military lineage, and the reasons why they chose to serve and fight for this country.

WATCH:

Sgt. Smith is running for Congress in California’s 39th District. Her platform is focused on honoring veterans through their care and helping them find homes. It’s a campaign worthy of support, if you are so inclined.