Uploaded February 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
The Honoring Service series explores civic virtue and responsibility by highlighting the service of our nation’s veterans.
In this episode, CW5 Phyllis Wilson talks with Vice President of Civic Leadership Development Gerald Gangaram about her 37-year career in the Army, and what it means to volunteer to defend our nation and safeguard America’s freedom and principles.
In her distinguished career, Wilson served in a variety of roles, from military intelligence to nursing. As a veteran, she educates others on the connection between military service and civic duty, and on the pride she and so many veterans have for the opportunity to wear the uniform. Willson encourages young people to engage in community service and lead by example.
To illustrate the opportunities for progress and change that form the fabric of our nation’s history, Wilson tells the story of women who proudly served in the First World War under General John J. Pershing, before women even had the right to vote. For Wilson, good citizenship takes many shapes.
Wilson is currently serving as the president of the Military Women’s Memorial, the only major national memorial honoring the more than 3 million women who have defended the nation from the Revolutionary War to today. The Memorial, which is located at the gateway to Arlington National Cemetery, tells the stories of America’s servicewomen and honors their sacrifice.
Learn more about the work of honoring members of the American armed forces by exploring the lesson, John J. Pershing: Honoring the Fallen. billofrightsinstitute.org/lessons/john-j-pershing-honoring-the-fallen
Learn more about the Military Women’s Memorial by visiting womensmemorial.org/.
00:00 Introduction - Honoring Service with Phyllis Wilson
00:09 Phyllis Wilson’s Military Career & Achievements
01:08 The Military Women's Memorial & Women in Service
02:28 Defending Constitutional Rights & Military Oath
04:14 Veterans, Sacrifice & the Meaning of Service
07:09 Military Legacy & Inspiring Future Generations
10:21 The "Hello Girls" & Women Breaking Barriers
13:01 Final Thoughts - Citizenship, Leadership & Opportunity
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About the Bill of Rights Institute:
Established in September 1999, the Bill of Rights Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization that works to engage, educate, and empower individuals with a passion for the freedom and opportunity that exist in a free society. The Institute develops educational resources and programs for a network of more than 50,000 educators and 70,000 students nationwide.
Official Site: billofrightsinstitute.org
Facebook: @billofrightsinstitute
Twitter: @brinstitute
Instagram: @brinstitute
BRI Educator Newsletter Sign Up Page: billofrightsinstitute.org/new..
The Honoring Service series explores civic virtue and responsibility by highlighting the service of our nation’s veterans.
In this episode, CW5 Phyllis Wilson talks with Vice President of Civic Leadership Development Gerald Gangaram about her 37-year career in the Army, and what it means to volunteer to defend our nation and safeguard America’s freedom and principles.
In her distinguished career, Wilson served in a variety of roles, from military intelligence to nursing. As a veteran, she educates others on the connection between military service and civic duty, and on the pride she and so many veterans have for the opportunity to wear the uniform. Willson encourages young people to engage in community service and lead by example.
To illustrate the opportunities for progress and change that form the fabric of our nation’s history, Wilson tells the story of women who proudly served in the First World War under General John J. Pershing, before women even had the right to vote. For Wilson, good citizenship takes many shapes.
Wilson is currently serving as the president of the Military Women’s Memorial, the only major national memorial honoring the more than 3 million women who have defended the nation from the Revolutionary War to today. The Memorial, which is located at the gateway to Arlington National Cemetery, tells the stories of America’s servicewomen and honors their sacrifice.
Learn more about the work of honoring members of the American armed forces by exploring the lesson, John J. Pershing: Honoring the Fallen. billofrightsinstitute.org/lessons/john-j-pershing-honoring-the-fallen
Learn more about the Military Women’s Memorial by visiting womensmemorial.org/.
00:00 Introduction - Honoring Service with Phyllis Wilson
00:09 Phyllis Wilson’s Military Career & Achievements
01:08 The Military Women's Memorial & Women in Service
02:28 Defending Constitutional Rights & Military Oath
04:14 Veterans, Sacrifice & the Meaning of Service
07:09 Military Legacy & Inspiring Future Generations
10:21 The "Hello Girls" & Women Breaking Barriers
13:01 Final Thoughts - Citizenship, Leadership & Opportunity
----
About the Bill of Rights Institute:
Established in September 1999, the Bill of Rights Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization that works to engage, educate, and empower individuals with a passion for the freedom and opportunity that exist in a free society. The Institute develops educational resources and programs for a network of more than 50,000 educators and 70,000 students nationwide.
Official Site: billofrightsinstitute.org
Facebook: @billofrightsinstitute
Twitter: @brinstitute
Instagram: @brinstitute
BRI Educator Newsletter Sign Up Page: billofrightsinstitute.org/new..
