Serving in the Army Nurse Corps in Vietnam in 1968, and treating Vietnamese civilians and prisoners of war in addition to American wounded, Colonel Lola Olsmith’s experiences in country quickly transformed her from hawk to dove. Despite her feelings on the war, she took great pride in the accomplishments of the medical community in Vietnam, and continued her military service after returning to the States. Her time in the service gave her a sense of confidence as well as a career: before enlisting, she considered herself “just a nurse,” but by the end of her time with the Army, she had found a self-assurance previously unimaginable.
We honor you, Lola Olsmith.
