Born: 1915 (Selma, Alabama)
Died: 2014
Biography:
Margaret E. Bailey (December 25, 1915 – August 28, 2014) was a United States Army Nurse Corps colonel. She served in the Corps for 27 years, from July 1944 to July 1971, nine of which she served in France, Germany, and Japan. During her career, Bailey advanced from a second lieutenant to colonel, the highest achievable military rank in the Nurse Corps. She set several landmarks for black nurses in the US military, becoming the first black lieutenant colonel in 1964, the first black chief nurse in a mixed, non-segregated unit in 1966, and the first black full colonel in 1967.
Margaret Bailey’s journey began in Selma, Alabama on December 25, 1915. Growing up in one of the most segregated areas of the South, Bailey defied the odds and pursued her dream of becoming a nurse. Inspired by the medical personnel she saw on her way to school, she developed a deep ambition to contribute to the field of healthcare. Despite the challenges presented by the Great Depression, Bailey worked tirelessly to save money for her education, eventually earning acceptance into the Fraternal Hospital School of Nursing in Montgomery, Alabama in 1935.
After graduating from nursing school in 1938, Bailey faced limited opportunities for black women in the South. However, she secured a nursing position at Mercy Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida, which was the only primary care facility for the local Black community at the time. This achievement marked a significant milestone in her career. However, Bailey’s determination and ambition led her to pursue even greater opportunities. In September 1939, she became the first black nurse to voluntarily resign from Mercy Hospital in order to accept a position at Seaview Hospital on Staten Island, New York.
Seaview Hospital shaped Bailey’s nursing career significantly. As the nation’s largest facility specializing in the treatment of tuberculosis, it provided her with invaluable experience and knowledge. Bailey’s expertise and dedication continued to flourish as she embraced the challenges of her role, expanding her skill set and transforming into an exemplary nurse.
Bailey’s journey took a new turn in July 1944 when she joined the United States Army Nurse Corps. This was a pivotal moment in her life, as it marked the beginning of her impressive military career. Over the next 27 years, she served in various locations, including France, Germany, and Japan. Working tirelessly in a variety of positions, Bailey continuously demonstrated her leadership abilities and commitment to providing exceptional care to military personnel.
Bailey’s accomplishments and resilience as a black nurse in the US military were groundbreaking. In 1964, she broke barriers by becoming the first black lieutenant colonel in the Nurse Corps. Two years later, in 1966, Bailey made history again as the first black chief nurse in a mixed, non-segregated unit. Her achievements culminated in 1967 when she became the first black full colonel in the Nurse Corps. These milestones not only highlighted her talent and dedication but also paved the way for future generations of black nurses in the military.
During World War II, Bailey played a vital role in treating German prisoners of war. Her compassion and expertise transcended the boundaries of war, highlighting her unwavering commitment to providing care to all those in need, regardless of their background. In the later years of her military career, Bailey actively worked with minority organizations and advocated for increased black participation in the Nurse Corps. Her dedication to promoting diversity and equality in the military had a lasting impact.
After retiring from the Army, Bailey continued to contribute to the field of nursing. She served as a consultant to the Surgeon General in the Nixon administration, working to increase the number of minorities in the Nurse Corps. Bailey’s commitment to diversity and equal opportunities extended beyond her military service, as she made speeches across the United States advocating for equal participation in the United States Army.
Margaret E. Bailey’s legacy as a trailblazing nurse and her invaluable contributions to the United States Army Nurse Corps cannot be overstated. Her determination, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her profession shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations. Through her achievements, Bailey left an indelible mark on women’s history, forever influencing the field of nursing and the fight for equality.
Awards:
– List of awards or recognitions is not available.