The Greer twins made history when they became the first Black twins to serve in the U.S. military. At 92, they are both living vibrant lives in their communities and with their families.
Hazel Greer Williams and Mazel Greer were born on Nov. 5, 1924, in Center, Texas.
There were nine children in total, including three sets of twins.
Upon graduation from Center Colored High School in 1942, they enlisted in the United States Women’s Army Auxiliary Corp, becoming the first Negro female twins to join the WAAC.
They did their basic training at Fort Des Moines, Iowa and later both worked in the Pharmacy Section of the Base Hospital, stationed at Fort Clark, Texas for their first assignment.
This adventure gave them the opportunity to travel and take part in many exciting experiences while serving their country. They both later settled in Ft. Worth, Texas.
Both are honored at the Women In Military Service for America Memorial in Washington, D.C.
They were highlighted in the book Double Victory: How African American Women Broke Race and Gender Barriers to Help Win World War II by Cheryl Mullenbach.
Hazel is the feistiest of the two and had a lot to say about the current election environment, she states that she is proud of the advancement of people of color and women; especially in politics.
She advises young women to pursue a career in the military if they have any interest at all; can give you the opportunity to travel, meet different people and experience some things you may not be exposed to otherwise.
Hazel also shared stories about the climate of race relations post tour for the two of them. She notes that segregation was still in effect and in many cases they were not allowed to use restroom facilities or eat with their colleagues because of their race, however, she also notes that they had more job opportunities available to them, because of the work experience in the military.
Rolling out salutes these two living legends this month and every month. They were honored with a Female Success Factor “Living Legend” award in November and are true examples of what it means to be a “Female Success Factor.”
