President's Message

 Greetings and Salutations, 

 With a heart full of gratitude and humility, I thank you for entrusting me with the honor of  serving as President of the San Antonio Chapter of the National Association of Black  Military Women. I do not take this responsibility lightly. I stand in this position fully aware  that I am walking on the shoulders of extraordinary women who paved the way with  courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to service.  As a retired United States Air Force veteran and a retired civil servant leader from the  Department of Veterans Affairs, my life has been rooted in service; both in uniform and  beyond it. My journey has shaped me into a servant leader who believes that true  leadership is not about position, but about purpose. It is about listening with intention,  leading with integrity, and serving with compassion.  I am deeply inspired by the legacy of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion.  The  Six Triple Eight women overcame barriers of race and gender during World War II to  ensure that hope, connection, and morale reached our troops across the world. Their  excellence under pressure, their unity, and their unshakable determination remind us of  what is possible when women stand together in purpose.  In that same spirit, the founders of the National Association of Black Military Women  established this organization to preserve our history, uplift our voices, and create a lasting legacy of sisterhood, advocacy, and empowerment. Their vision was clear: that  we would not only remember our past but actively shape the future for the generations  that follow.  As President, I am committed to honoring that vision through intentional leadership  grounded in active listening, community engagement, and meaningful connection. I  believe in the power of sisterhood—not just as a word, but as a lived experience. A sisterhood that supports, uplifts, holds accountable, and walks alongside one another  through every season.  My leadership approach is centered on: 

 • Active Listening — ensuring every voice is heard, valued, and respected    • Community Advocacy — bridging gaps and creating opportunities that strengthen our  communities    • Servant Leadership — leading with humility, compassion, and a heart to serve    Together, we will build upon a foundation that is both strong and sustainable. We will  create spaces where our members feel seen, heard, and empowered. We will honor our  history while boldly advancing our mission forward.  I am committed to walking this journey with you; not ahead of you, not above you, but  alongside you.  Thank you for your trust, your service, and your continued dedication to this powerful  sisterhood. 

 With respect and gratitude, 

 LaKeisha D. Howard 

President, San Antonio Chapter   

National Association of Black Military Women