Patricia Harris, a former member of Apex Post 124, was inducted into the North Carolina Military Hall of Firsts on December 9, 2025.
"Sgt. Patricia A. Harris, U.S. Army, retired, a combat veteran with more than 22 years of honorable service. She is an accomplished nonprofit executive, national military advocate, and public speaker with a strong record of leadership in veteran support services, policy development, and community engagement, serving as the founder and executive director of Women Veterans Support Services, Inc. In 2013, she made history as the 98th Department Commander of North Carolina, becoming the first woman veteran, African American, and dual member of The American Legion and the Auxiliary to hold the post. Throughout her career, Harris has remained a bold and tireless advocate for active-duty military and veterans, particularly women and families, who too often suffer in silence. Through her ongoing leadership, she continues to open doors and ensure no veteran is left behind."