Gilda Jackson Becomes First African-American Female Marine Colonel
October 1, 1997, in Marine Corps history.
On October 1, 1997, Colonel Gilda A. Jackson, of Columbus, Ohio, became the first African-American female Marine to achieve the rank of Colonel during a ceremony at MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina. Prior to her promotion, Jackson served as the Special Projects Officer of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.
Photo Credit: Colonel Gilda A. Jackson. (USMC photo)
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