Recognizing the Service of Black Americans in the United States Military
During the national celebration of Black History month, Ohio Valley Goodwill wanted to take a moment to reflect on the meritorious service of Black Americans in the United States military. The participation of Black Americans in the military is significantly higher as a percentage of the population than other ethnicities and yet, historically their contributions to the defense of our community is not well recognized. As an organization that has been proudly serving military veterans for the past century, Goodwill is honored to share at least a few stories that illustrate the inspiring service of these dedicated men and women.
Jesse Walker honorably served in the Marines during the Viet Nam war but after completing his service, he returned home only to face the devastating losses of his wife and soon after, his parents. This sparked a cycle of depression and drug use which would result in Jesse becoming homeless. Fortunately, through the Veterans Administration and the local Veterans Hospital, Jesse discovered Goodwill and its Transitional Dormitory at its Employment and Training campus in the Village of Woodlawn.
More than 20 years later, Jesse has been celebrated for his long employment history at Ohio Valley Goodwill as a Supervisor of the organization’s production operations and for his leadership in working with others who may be struggling to move forward with their lives. Recipient of the Distinguished Veteran Alumni Award from Ohio Valley Goodwill and Honorable Service Recognition from Goodwill Industries International, Walker’s military service as well as his post-military career have served as an inspiration to his fellow peers and all of his team members at Ohio Valley Goodwill and the larger community.
In 2023, Goodwill had the opportunity to recognize another outstanding veteran and her service, Ms. Celina James. Celina joined the military at an early age and served during the Iraqi Freedom campaign and Enduring Freedom. Severely injured during her service, James was honorably discharged but had to learn to walk again and re-start her life following her release from the military. She decided to pursue a degree in Nursing and after three and a half years of hard work attained her degree and is now employed as a Psychiatric Nurse serving others who are struggling with recovery.
Honored with the Distinguished Veterans Award from Ohio Valley Goodwill, Celina’s service and subsequent accomplishments in civilian life were recognized for their inspiring qualities. Read more about Celina’s story here:
Jesse and Celina’s stories are just two of the many of hundreds of stories that Ohio Valley Goodwill is proud to share during the celebration of Black History Month. Annually, the organization provides employment, training and housing support services to an average of 600 veterans struggling with homelessness each year. We are grateful to Jesse and Celina for their proud military service as well as their willingness to share their important stories.
To find out more about Goodwill’s services for Military Veterans, please visit www.cincinnatigoodwill.org/services.
