From Howard High School to DC’s Pentagon – Mildred Kelly was a Distinguished Veteran
In 1928, a young girl named Mildred Catherine Kelly was born between the mountains, ridges, and river that makes Chattanooga, Tennessee. But she would become a woman who impacted a world at a time that offered limited paths for women – especially African American women.
Through perseverance, discipline, and a quiet strength of character, she would rise to become one of the most distinguished figures in the history of the U.S. Army. Chattanoogan Mildred C. Kelly became the first African American woman to attain the rank of Command Sergeant Major of a major installation.
Born to Maxie Denver and Willie Elliott Kelly on January 24, 1928 Mildred came to know Jesus as Savior “at an early age at New Zion Baptist Church,” according to her obituary from 2003. She graduated from Howard High School, leaving immediately for Knoxville College where she earned a Bachelors of Science degree in chemistry and mathematics.
In 1950, Ms. Kelly’s journey began as she enlisted in the US Army’s Women’s Army Corps, at a time when the military was still adjusting to racial integration which had just begun in 1948. Despite existing barriers, Mildred Kelly persevered in her decision to serve creating an opportunity out of adversity.
Ms. Kelly rose steadily through the ranks, mastering logistics, administration, and leadership at a time when few women of any race had achieved at this level and were granted such responsibility.
In 1974, Ms. Kelly achieved a historic milestone. She became the first African American woman to serve as a Command Sergeant Major – the highest enlisted rank – at the U.S. Army Ordnance Center and School at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland.
This achievement was a personal triumph. It also symbolized the growth of our nation and military. Ms. Kelly demonstrated that leadership knows no gender or color; it is defined by service, competence, and courage. Seeing jobs to do, Mildren Kelly did them with excellence and determination.
When she retired from the Army in 1976, Kelly continued to break barriers in civilian life. She worked in federal service and volunteered her time to veterans’ causes, mentoring younger generations and advocating for the recognition of women’s and minorities’ contributions to military history. Her legacy was honored posthumously when she was inducted into the Army Women’s Foundation Hall of Fame and celebrated by military historians as a pioneer who paved the way for diversity in leadership.
Today, join the Chattanooga News Chronicle to pause to honor all who have, do, and are set to serve for Veterans Day. But also be inspired by Mildred Kelly’s story which reminds us of the importance of parents, churches, schools and our communities to positively build up our people.
From the streets of Chattanooga to the command halls of the U.S. Army, Mildred C. Kelly’s life tells us a story of perseverance, excellence, and faith. It also demonstrates what can be done in the face of challenge and adversity. Veterans, we salute YOU!