by Shawn Nowlin
At a time when the number of Black women in the military was minuscule, Silverine Vinyard James, 94, proved definitively that women can be just as resilient, strong and strategic as their male counterparts.
Born in 1929 in Vinton during the height of the Great Depression, James graduated from Washington Carver High School in 1948. Less than a year later, she was serving in the military.
When President Truman signed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, James had just become one of the first Black females to enter an all-white military unit. To help desegregate the military, James was sent to work at Idlewild Airport, known today as JFK.
It didn’t take long before James was promoted from specialist to the rank of a staff sergeant. She earned the rare distinction of an E8 Master Sergeant after a stint in Germany. Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Japan were just some of James’ other career assignments.
After retiring from the military on Oct. 31, 1973, having served 22 years, four months and nine days, James was hired by the Salem VA Healthcare System. Last June, the renaming of the Women’s Health Clinic at the Virginia Medical Center was in her honor.
Said Executive Director Rebecca Stackhouse at the time, “The record of MSG James and her contributions to the military is impressive and worthy of our admiration and recognition. I hope that her story, and her indomitable spirit will inspire everyone who walks past these doors for generations to come.”
Voluntarily putting oneself in harm’s way to protect others is the ultimate selfless act. A simple “Thank you for your service, Ms. James” means more to her than people realize.
Explaining why joining the military is one of the best decisions she’s ever made, James said, “I gave my country the best part of my life and I’d gladly do it all over again. While not always perfect or easy, the military allowed me to truly make a difference in the world.”
On Oct. 8, during a ceremony held at Roanoke County’s Explore Park, James received an official letter from the Attorney General and recognition from former Virginia Governor George Allen. On Oct. 30, Roanoke City Public Safety officers recognized and honored James too for her service and retirement of 50 years. During that ceremony in the Roanoke Police Department Community Room, James received an official letter from the Office of Mayor.
“It is only befitting that I, on behalf of the Mayor and Members of Roanoke City Council, and the 100,000 citizens of the City of Roanoke, present Veteran Master Sergeant Silverine Vinyard James with the Key to the City in recognition of not only her service to this great Country, but also for the doors that she has opened for all women of color,” Stephanie Moon Reynolds said on Nov. 6 during a city council meeting.
