Dog Tag Diaries

In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we sit down with Eileen Bjorkman, a remarkable woman who came of age during a transformative time in American history—the late 1960s and early 1970s. With a natural talent for math and science and a love for sports, she was anything but typical in an era when women were just starting to gain more opportunities, yet still faced significant discrimination. Her journey took her from a computer programming job to a groundbreaking career in the Air Force, where she became a flight test engineer, overcoming the limitations placed on women in the military at the time.

eileenbjorkman.com

LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileen-bjorkman-b323b51a/

X -

@AviationHistGal

Published Books -

The Fly Girls Revolt 

Unforgotten in the Gulf of Tonkin 

The Propeller Under the Bed

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Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

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You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode, Doris Sumner takes us on a journey from her roots in rural Vermont to her impactful career in the U.S. military, where she found her purpose in advocating for gender equality. Growing up as one of six kids, with five cousins next door, she was the daring tomboy who wasn't afraid to challenge societal norms. Doris's journey took her from working on farms to joining the carnival to becoming a truck driver in the Army and eventually a leader in combating sexism in the Vermont National Guard. This episode delves into her experiences, the challenges she faced, and how she turned them into a mission to create lasting change.

You can find out more about Doris's book Life At Camp: Combating the Sexism We Tolerate and Why the Military Should Take the Lead at https://itsallaboutego.com/memoir.

https://itsallaboutego.com/

Instagram -

@empoweringgenderopportunities

LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsallaboutego/

Facebook -

Empowering Gender Opportunities, LLC

X -

@itsallaboutego1

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

This episode of Dog Tag Diaries features Kory Flansberg and her whirlwind experience as an admin specialist turned key player in a military mayor cell. Discover her true stories of the highs and lows of working alongside the Australian Air Force, the impact of strict COVID protocols, and the innovative ways Kory and her colleagues kept spirits high amid lockdowns. Plus, hear about Kory's personal journey as a military woman, including her rapid relationship development, the loss of a friend, and how she maintained her strong partnership while away. This engaging episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in military life, resilience, and personal growth.

www.linkedin.com/in/kory-flansberg

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Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we delve into the unique experiences of transitioning from active military service to becoming a military spouse. Melissa Washington shares personal stories from her 6-month Med Cruise and 6-month West Pac deployments during her short time on active duty. She reflects on how these experiences instilled a sense of discipline, resilience, and adaptability that has influenced every aspect of her life.

Websites

 www.WomenVeteransAlliance.com 

www.MelissaWashington.com

Social Media

• www.linkedin.com/in/washingtonmelissa 
• www.instagram.com/ladyveterans

Book Published

• https://www.melissawashington.com/author

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we sit down with a remarkable woman who served both before and after 9/11. She shares her experiences as a Damage Controlman, the challenges she faced in a pre-repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" military, and her journey of navigating life and service on her own terms.

Prepare to be inspired by Jenifer Groves' raw and unfiltered experience. Faced with childhood trauma, Jenifer chose faith and resilience to guide her path. Jenifer touches on life before and after 9/11, shedding light on the controversial "don't ask, don't tell" policy and its impact on LGBTQ+ service members like herself. As she recounts her hardships, including a "marriage of convenience" that was more necessary than convenient, and traumatic separations from her children, Jenifer offers crucial insights into the unique challenges military women face. Her candid advice to women considering a military career— "Don’t lose your voice"—is a powerful call to action, encouraging listeners to champion the stories and struggles of military women. With grit, she balanced motherhood and deployments, raising two children who later joined the military.

Resources:

https://modernmilitary.org/programs/lgbtq-advocacy/

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Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

This podcast episode is dedicated to Cultural Support Team members

1LT Ashley White (KIA 2011) and CPT Jenny Moreno (KIA 2013)

In this compelling episode of Dog Tag Diaries, hosts Captain Dakota and Captain Kim sit down with Major Jess Yahn, to discuss a trailblazing time in military history. Join them to learn about the groundbreaking US Army Special Operations Command's Cultural Support Team (CST) program, which was pivotal in lifting the combat arms ban for women in 2015. Major Yahn shares gripping stories from her deployments, including a tense moment on an Afghan airfield and a unique cultural dining experience. Learn about her work with Alltru, the impact of educational initiatives for girls in Afghanistan, and about the Women, Peace, and Security Act. Hear how female soldiers like Jess are breaking barriers and making history. This episode is profoundly inspiring and informative and a must-listen for anyone interested in women in combat roles.

What is the Cultural Support Team Program?

• Background and creation of the CST program by the US Army Special Operations Command.

• Purpose and objectives of CSTs in Afghanistan.

Deployment and Operations:

• CSTs deployed with Joint Task Force elements.

• Integration with special operations units like the Ranger Regiment.

• Description of direct action missions and village stability operations.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Specific roles CST members played during missions.

• Importance of cultural awareness and building trust with local Afghan communities.

Challenges Faced:

• Physical and mental challenges encountered by CST members.

• Navigating cultural barriers and gender dynamics in a conflict zone.

Impact and Achievements:

• Success stories and notable accomplishments of CSTs.

• Long-term effects on both the local population and the CST members themselves.

Social Media: @alltruinc

Website: AllTru.com

Book: Last to eat, last to learn: My Life in Afghanistan Fighting to Educate Women

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Sarah Blum, a former military nurse who served during the Vietnam War. From her early days as a serious child with an old soul to her experiences in one of the most challenging environments imaginable, Sarah shares her powerful story of resilience, strength, and advocacy for women veterans

Sarah Blum, Vietnam War Military Nurse and Author

Sarah Blum served as a military nurse during the Vietnam War, stationed at the 12th Evac Hospital beside the Hobo Woods. She is the author of "Warrior Nurse, Healer: PTSD and Healing" and "Women Under Fire: Abuse in the Military." Her experiences have shaped her into a strong advocate for women veterans, particularly those who have faced sexual assault in the military.

Childhood and Early Influences:

• Sarah reflects on her early years, growing up during WWII and developing a sense of independence and strength from a young age. She shares memories of playing with a simple yet cherished baby doll and coach, and how these experiences shaped her character.

Pursuit of Nursing and Military Career:

• From creating a career booklet at nine years old to joining the military in response to the Vietnam War, Sarah outlines her path to becoming a nurse and the challenges she faced, including height restrictions and initial rejections by different branches of the military.

Experiences in Vietnam:

• Sarah provides a harrowing account of her time at the 12th Evac Hospital, where she dealt with constant casualties and extreme conditions. She describes the intense pressure, the emotional toll, and the unrelenting demands of her role.

Impact of Military Service:

• Reflecting on how her service impacted her personally and professionally, Sarah discusses the resilience and strength she gained, as well as the stories and experiences that fueled her advocacy work and writing.

Advice for Women in the Military:

• Sarah offers candid advice to women considering joining the military and those already serving. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, awareness of the challenges they might face, and the necessity of maintaining personal power and resilience.

Resources Mentioned:

• "Warrior Nurse, Healer: PTSD and Healing" by Sarah Blum-launch date-March 6, 2025
• "Women Under Fire: Abuse in the Military" by Sarah Blum www.womenunderfire.net

Quotes:

• “I was alone on the street from the time I was three. In 1942, my dad was in WWII, and he bought me a baby doll and coach. It was glorious to me.” 
• “Imagine being a sensitive young nurse in the worst area hospital in Vietnam, working 16-20 hours a day regularly, standing in the blood of wounded soldiers.” 

Social Media:

https://twitter.com/SarahLBlum

https://www.facebook.com/sarah.l.blum.1

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

Are you concerned about the intersection of mental health, firearm safety, and women veterans? This episode of Dog Tag Diaries takes a moment to speak to an advocate and partner for all three. Join us in getting to know a bit about Donna Marie Drucker, her close affiliation to the armed forces, and her advocacy for these important topics. Her conversation with Captain Dakota and Captain Kim explores important topics such as the stigmas and barriers that prevent effective suicide prevention among female firearm owners, and the lack of data specific to suicide in female veterans. Donna talks about her unique background as the daughter of a gunsmith who understands both the importance of gun rights, as well as gun safety, and how this led to her work with the Oregon Fire and Safety Coalition. Learn more about the impact of PTSD, family struggles, and how healthcare providers are being trained to ask the right questions and provide support that respects the veteran experience. Be both surprised and touched by Donna’s personal story of her suicide attempt and how it transformed her mission to help others. This episode is a powerful testament to the strength and dedication of those working to create safer communities and support mental health. Don’t miss this inspiring and informative learning opportunity.

Today’s guest –

Donna Marie Drucker grew up in an intriguing and unique environment. She attended a small village school with just 30 students, a stark contrast to the education her own children now receive. Her father was both a gunsmith and a passionate military antiques collector, filling their home with an eclectic array of historical artifacts. Mannequins adorned in uniforms, swords, bayonets, and various military paraphernalia became a normal part of life for Donna. It wasn't until she grew older that she realized her upbringing, enveloped in the scent of mothballs and the presence of military relics, was quite extraordinary and not something everyone experienced. She currently works with the Oregon Fire and Safety Coalition (information below). [email protected]

Information on how listeners can support the Oregon Firearm Safety Coalition and Together with Veterans NW Oregon.

Oregon Firearm Safety Coalition

www.OFSC.us

Together with Veterans

http://www.twv-nworegon.org/

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24 hours a day 7 days a week

English/Spanish: 988

Veterans: 988 & Press 1

Oregon Youthline: for youth to connect with other youth

 Text: Teen2Teen to 839863 to instantly text with another person 

Trevor Project: supporting LGBTQiA+ youth

Text START to 678678 or TrevorLifeLine 1(866) 488-7386

Support the Show:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share our podcast with others!

Contact Us:

Are you a woman who has served in the military and have a story to share? [email protected] – Put “Story to Share” in the Subject Line!

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

In this episode of Dog Tag Diaries, we delve into the powerful and deeply personal story of Amber. Born in Redmond, Oregon, and raised in Bend, Oregon, Amber shares her experiences growing up as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses alongside her sister, Ariane. Despite a sheltered and often challenging childhood, marked by constant comparisons to her sister, Amber sought to carve her own path and prove her worth.

Key Points:

• Early Life: Born to Guy and Jane Thomas, Amber describes her upbringing in a strict religious household and the pressures she faced to live up to her sister’s achievements.

• Marriage and Move: At 18, she moved to Quantico, Virginia, with her high school sweetheart who joined the Marine Corps.

• Military Service: Inspired by the challenging nature of the Marine Corps, she enlisted at 19 and became a military police officer, striving to prove her strength and capabilities in a male-dominated environment.

• Personal Struggles: While serving, she faced significant personal traumas, including being sexually assaulted by her first sergeant, leading to a difficult decision to have an abortion.

• Career and Resilience: Despite facing gender discrimination and personal abuse, Amber served for 12 years and worked at four different duty stations. Her perseverance and dedication were unwavering, even as she dealt with the pain and struggles of being one of the few women in her field.

• Medical Retirement: At 31, she was medically retired from the Marine Corps due to multiple injuries and PTSD stemming from her experiences.

• Post-Military Life: After leaving the service, she pursued education in hairstyling, barbering, and esthetics, becoming a self-employed professional.

• Healing Journey: Over the past year, Amber has been living in Sedona, Arizona, focusing on healing and working through her trauma, embracing her journey of self-discovery and resilience.

Join us as Amber opens up about her journey, from a quiet, sheltered child to a strong and resilient woman who continues to overcome her past and look forward to the future. Her story is a testament to the strength and courage of military women everywhere.

Follow Amber:

Instagram: @its_ambervi

Facebook: Amber Donnelly

https://www.roadwarrior.org

Follow Captain Kim & Captain Dakota:

• Instagram: reveilleandretreatproject

• Facebook: Reveille & Retreat Project

Contact Us: Have a story to share? [email protected]

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

A young woman enlisted in the military seeking structure and a sense of professionalism. Instead, she encountered challenges, sorrow, and hardship while fulfilling her duties stateside and overseas. To cope, she had to suppress her emotions. Only when she discovered a supportive community of female service members sharing her experiences did she feel comfortable enough to confront and work through her emotions, beginning the path toward healing.

Be sure to follow or subscribe to Dog Tag Diaries wherever you listen to podcasts.

Learn more about Reveille and Retreat Project: 

reveilleandretreatproject.org

Instagram: @reveilleandretreatproject

Facebook: Reveille and Retreat Project

You aren’t alone.

If you’re thinking about hurting yourself or having thoughts of suicide contact the

Veteran crisis line: Dial 988 then press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

We honor Laura's friend, who served in the military and which Laura shared with us tragically lost her life in a domestic violence encounter.