Student Voices: Danielle Makous on BG Tammy Smith


April 1, 2015

Danielle Makous and BG Tammy Smith in Post Hall

Danielle Makous (IP 2014-15) wrote a blog post about Brigadier General Tammy Smith, the first openly gay senior office in the U.S. Army, who spoke to WLP at the symposium on March 19, 2015.

For this week’s Symposium, WLP welcomed a very special guest, Brigadier General Tammy Smith. Throughout the beginning of her military career, General Smith struggled to maintain her leadership role while military policy forced her to hide her true self-identity. Today, General Smith is honored as the first openly gay flag officer to come out while serving since the repeal of the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy. After years of repression, General Smith fought a hard fight and has emerged with a unique and passionate leadership role. While most people in the audience had very little military knowledge, General Smith relayed her story with a relatable, inspiring, and captivating approach.

In addition to speaking to the WLP, GW Today was able to interview BG Smith and write a fantastic article about her.