A Marine’s Story

In honor of Veterans Day, Marlborough was honored to host an All-School Meeting (ASM) dedicated to amplifying the voices and stories of female veterans. Keshia Javis-Jones, a former U.S. Marine and the Community Partnerships Director at the Foundation for Women Warriors, delivered a powerful and inspiring talk, sharing her personal journey in military service and the unique challenges she—and other women in uniform—have faced.

Ms. Javis-Jones began by reflecting on her grandfather’s World War II service and his adamant demands that she “never join the service.” Despite his protestations, she chose to enlist in the Marine Corps at just 19 years old. She spoke about her deployment to Iraq, where, despite restrictions at the time prohibiting women from serving in combat roles, she served on the front lines as a Lioness—a female engagement specialist tasked with searching local women and children while respecting the region’s cultural norms. 

Through her story, Ms. Javis-Jones highlighted the many barriers and inequities that women—and other marginalized groups—in the military have historically faced, from inadequate facilities and accommodations to discriminatory policies like “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” She also celebrated the hard-won progress that has been made since she first joined the service over a decade ago. In particular, she noted the integration of co-ed boot camps and the opening of all combat roles to women.

Ms. Javis-Jones also emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting women veterans, who have long been underrepresented and underserved. She shared her own struggles transitioning to civilian life and the lack of resources available to her as a female veteran. This experience inspired her to get involved with the Foundation for Women Warriors, where she now works to provide essential services and advocacy for her fellow women in uniform. “The smallest thing can go a long way,” Ms. Javis-Jones explained. “The notes that people write just to say thank you might reach a veteran who has never been thanked for their service. That really means a lot.”

The power of community was continuously emphasized throughout Ms. Javis-Jones’ talk. She shared her belief that everyone has a role to play in uplifting the stories and experiences of women who have served. Visibly overcome with emotion, she shared an anecdote from her time on the Marine Corps Funeral Honors Duty. As she presented the American flag to a female Marines’ grieving family, a relative of the deceased asked Ms. Javis-Jones to tell her about her time in the service, because she never had the chance to hear about her own family member’s experience. Ms. Javis-Jones reflected, “I knew it was because that woman didn’t recognize herself as a veteran. From that moment on, I wanted to make sure that I continued to share my story and the story of every woman who serves.” She encouraged the Marlborough community to continue educating themselves, sharing these narratives, and advocating for policy changes that ensure true equity and support for all service members, regardless of gender. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by women in the military and the ongoing work required to achieve the full recognition and support they deserve.