CWV Book Corner, April: Marine Corps Veteran Uquay Baker

This month’s Center for Women Veteran Book Corner author is Army & Marine Corps Veteran Uquay E. Baker, who served in Military Police and communications roles from 1995-2006. She is the author of “Destiny And The Bully.” 

Baker was born in Chicago, Illinois, and is the youngest in her family. She holds a master’s degree in psychology from Texas A&M University-Central Texas. She credits her unique experiences of serving with other women in different locations while in the military for igniting her passion for advocating for children everywhere. She uses her unique voice to speak to issues dear to their heart.

Can you share a brief background of your military experience, including your branch of service, years served, and any notable positions or deployments?

I enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in February 1995. What makes me so unique is that I was 30 years old, well above the age of enlistment and had to get an age waiver from the headquarters Marine Corps. After only 2.5 years in the Corps, I had ascended to the rank of sergeant and was selected to go to Drill Instructor school.

I enlisted in the Army on Sept. 11, 2001, and was in the process of swearing in when we got word that the towers had been struck. Since I was prior service, I was one of the few that they let leave MEPS and report to Fort Leonard Wood for Military Police training. I deployed to Mosul, Iraq, in March 2004. I was awarded a combat action badge for multiple engagements with enemy insurgents.

What inspired you to write a book and share your story as a woman Veteran?

I was listening to a news story about the bullying epidemic that is facing our children, and I went to sleep that night and awoken with the name of my characters and just began to write. I completed the book in two hours and 20 minutes.

How has your military background influenced your writing style and the themes you explore in your work?

As a Drill Instructor, I was inspired by the single women who were mothers, while training the next generations of warriors and protecting our country. That is the main reason that I made Destiny the child of a single-parent household. To pay homage and respect to those women who do it every day and make it seem effortless.

How do you hope your book will impact other women Veterans, active duty service members and the public?

I hope that everyone will recognize the epidemic of bullying in this country and that women Veterans have a unique perspective and stories to tell.

What role do you think storytelling and literature play in fostering understanding and support for the women Veteran’s community?

I think they can play a huge role. Most information about Veterans is only from the male perspective. Women Veterans are often invisible or forgotten. While most Veterans prefer privacy and do not share much information about themselves post service, the storytelling gives everyone the opportunity to learn more about Women Veterans and how they can be our ally or support systems.

Can you share a memorable experience or anecdote from your time in the military that has had a lasting impact on your life and writing?

I was the only female squad leader in my unit that led combat missions outside the wire. I had recently added a female team leader and gunner to my team. When we were out on a mission and stopped in the market to speak with local Iraqi police, when the Iraqi girls saw me and the other two women, they pointed at us and said, “Look, they are girls like us.”  I can only imagine that this moment was a source of empowerment for them.

Are there any fellow women Veteran authors or books that have inspired or resonated with you? If so, could you tell us a bit about them? 

I hope to meet fellow women Veteran authors through this website or another VA event. Some books that have inspired me are, “It Worked for Me-Life and Leadership” by Retired General Colin Powell and “The 48 Laws of Power” by Robert Greene.

How do you believe the Women Veterans Book Corner can help bring awareness to the civilian and military communities, particularly about women Veterans?

I think this is a great opportunity for the civilian community and even our brothers and comrades to hear women Veterans’ voices. I am confident that they exist—a lot of stories about the bravery and challenges that women Veterans have faced, and it may be the first time we hear about their experiences. 

What advice do you have for other women Veterans or active duty service members who may be considering writing about their experiences?

Do not be afraid of rejection and just tell your story. There is someone out there who needs to hear your voice, is facing that challenge and could learn from your experiences.

How has writing this book helped you?

It has helped me to come out of my shell and talk with more people. But most importantly, it has made me feel connected again.

Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or events you’re involved in that our audience might be interested in?

I have created a military scholarship back at my high school alma mater, Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois. It is for a $1,000 scholarship for a female and a male who enlists in any branch of service.

Are you a woman Veteran author, or do you know of one?

If so, please visit our website to find out more information. If you have further questions, contact the CWV Outreach Program Manager Michelle Terry at 00W@VA.Gov.