In recognition of Women’s History Month, The African American Military History Museum is hosting several special events to highlight women and their roles in military service.
On March 22, the museum will unveil a special exhibit titled Ruth Bailey Earl – An In Depth Look at Her Story, which will showcase Earl’s commitment to her education, dedication to earning her Registered Nurse degree and her service in the U.S. Army. The exhibit will be housed at the African American Military History Museum through April 29.
Ruth Bailey Earl (1919-2004) attended Eureka High School and graduated Salutatorian of her senior class in 1936. Earl went to nursing school in Dothan, AL and became a Registered Nurse.
Earl then worked at Flint Goodrich Hospital in New Orleans and for Hattiesburg’s then segregated Health Department before becoming Hattiesburg’s first African American female U.S. Army enlistee. She served as a U.S. Army Nurse Corp. officer from 1941 – 1946. “Ruth Bailey Earl is the inspiration behind our logo, so for Women’s History Month, we thought it would be a great opportunity to delve deeper into her story,” said Latoya Norman, Director of Museums. “I’ve personally learned some details about her life that I did not know, which gives me a greater appreciation for her service to our country and community. Our new transient exhibit will offer never before seen images as well as stories.”
On March 29 at 10 a.m., Senior Airman Marshay Thomas will read to students grades 1 – 3 from the Nurse Nola series by Dr. Scharmaine M. Lawson during Storytime with a Soldier. At 1 p.m. that same day, Thomas will share HER story with middle and high school students. Students attending either of these two events will also tour the African American Military History Museum.
Marshay Thomas was born and raised in Hattiesburg and attended Hattiesburg High School. She is currently on active-duty with the Air Force as an Aerospace Medical Technician. Thomas’ first assignment was at Incirlik Air Base in Adana, Turkey where she served in the family practice clinic. She is currently working in Ambulance Services in Aviano, Italy. She earned a BS in psychology and a clinical mental health certificate from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Thomas is now pursuing an MSW through Salisbury University with the long-term goal to be commissioned as a social work officer.
“Sr. Airman Thomas worked with us here at the African American Military History Museum prior to enlisting in the U.S. Air Force,” said Norman. “She was forthcoming about her desire to serve in the Armed Forces and used her time at the military museum to learn as much as she could from the veterans she encountered.” “It is rewarding to see her live out her dream and can’t wait to have her as our special guest for Women’s History Month.” Both events on March 29 th are free to attend but do require reservations.
A Conversation with Peggye H. Wilson, the niece-in-law of Ruth Bailey Earl, will be held March 30 at 10 a.m. at the African American Military History Museum. Wilson will share little-known memories and stories of Ms. Earl.
All women’s history events will be held at the African American Military History Museum located at 305 E. Sixth Street. The museum is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.
