latest

Katie Schmid

Katie Schmid (she/her) is the Board Secretary for SPARTA, as well as an Intelligence and Security Non-Commissioned Officer In Charge (NCOIC) in the US Army. She is also a trained and certified Sexual Assault Victim Advocate, a graduate of the Army Basic Space Cadre Course, and holds the rank of Sergeant First Class.

As the Board Secretary for SPARTA, Katie maintains the historical records for the organization, ensures all board operations are conducted smoothly, and assists the other board members with coordination and support in the performance of their responsibilities.

After coming out as transgender on active duty in 2014, she fought for transgender servicemembers' place in the military against fierce opposition until the ban on open service was lifted in 2016. When a new ban again threatened the community in 2017, she joined the lawsuit against the federal government in open court to fight the discriminatory order.

Her Army awards and decorations include the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. She is also the recipient of multiple awards from other organizations, including a letter of appreciation from MG Kim (Republic of Korea Army G2), the Jeffrey Fashion Cares Community Leadership Award, and the Lambda Legal Justice and Equality Award.

Social media:

facebook.com/katiebirb
twitter.com/schmidcathrine

Author image
Waynesville, MO
You've successfully subscribed to SPARTA
Great! Next, complete checkout for full access to SPARTA
Welcome back! You've successfully signed in.
Success! Your account is fully activated, you now have access to all content.