Born: 1918 (Washington, D.C.)
Biography:
Millie Bailey, born Vivian Mildred Corbett on February 3, 1918, in Washington, D.C., was an outstanding figure in American history. As an African American World War II veteran, civil servant, and dedicated volunteer, she made significant contributions to her community and society as a whole. Bailey’s remarkable journey encompassed numerous accomplishments, struggles, and inspiring moments that continue to resonate today.
Raised in her mother’s hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Bailey experienced a segregated education system. Despite the challenges she faced, she possessed a thirst for knowledge and an unwavering determination to succeed. It was during her upbringing in Tulsa that she became acquainted with the renowned historian John Hope Franklin, who would go on to have a profound impact on her life and career.
In 1943, Bailey joined the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), becoming one of the first African American officers. She stood out among her peers and proved her exceptional abilities by earning superior rank at her officer’s course. After completing her training at Fort Des Moines Provisional Army Officer Training School, she took on the role of a first lieutenant with the WAC.
Bailey’s commitment and leadership propelled her to become the second in command of the Women’s Colored Detachment at Fort McClellan. Recognizing her aptitude and dedication, she was eventually chosen to lead the all-female detachment. Her exemplary performance and outstanding marks enabled her to attend the Adjutant General School Officers’ Administration Course, where she excelled as one of only two Black women in the class.
Throughout her time in the military, Bailey encountered both the challenges of racial segregation and the kindness of individuals who saw beyond prejudice. While stationed at Fort McClellan, she faced bigotry when a white woman spat at her and hurled racial slurs. However, she also experienced compassion from her commanding general during a training camp in San Antonio. These contrasting encounters left a lasting impression on Bailey, inspiring her to push for change and combat racial discrimination.
Following her honorable discharge from the Army, Bailey settled in Chicago and embarked on a career with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and later the Social Security Administration. In 1970, she transferred to the Social Security office in Baltimore, where she became a division director. Bailey displayed her remarkable dedication and professionalism throughout her tenure, retiring in 1975 after a distinguished service.
But retirement did not mark the end of Bailey’s contributions to society. She continued to channel her energy into volunteer work and fundraising for various causes. From 1966 onwards, Bailey played an essential role in collecting, packing, and shipping CARE packages for U.S. military service members. Her commitment to supporting the armed forces symbolized her unwavering patriotism.
From 1982 to 1993, Bailey served on the Maryland Health Resources Planning Commission, contributing to the approval of the first Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and CT scanners in the state. She later joined the board of trustees at the Howard County General Hospital, serving for an astonishing 23 years before stepping down in 2015. Her involvement in healthcare planning and administration demonstrated her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.
Millie Bailey lived a life of dedication, perseverance, and service to her community. Her remarkable achievements as one of the first African American officers in the WAC, her impactful career in civil service, and her extensive volunteer work have left an indelible mark on American history. She will forever be remembered as a trailblazer, a champion for equality, and an inspiration to generations to come.