I found “Life at Camp” to be a bluntly honest journal describing a military career from its idealistic beginning, through to its mature and successful ending. Doris Sumner tells her story and pulls no punches. She leads us to acknowledge that sexual harassment and harmful disrespect still plague the National Guard and active duty forces. 

What I found particularly compelling, was her fierce determination to help soldiers and airmen receive help, and then justice, after they were harassed, assaulted or made to feel less than their fellow brothers and sisters in arms, often at a cost to her reputation. She knew these issues hurt military readiness, as well as people, and could not be ignored.

Fortunately, as Doris retired, hopeful signs were emerging as new leaders, led by the Adjutant General, began defining and measuring equity in military service. Progress is happening. Accountability will become the standard. Our Guard will be stronger.

Martha T. Rainville, Maj Gen (Ret), USAF

Vermont Adjutant General, March 1997-April 2006