Sergeant Major Evelyn Pollard (Retired): "The Army shaped every part of me ...."

Dear Army,

As I retire from the U.S. Army after 23 years of service—21 of them on active duty—I reflect on the profound impact this journey has had on my life.

I joined the Army as a quiet young woman, but I leave as a resilient, confident, and purpose-driven leader.

The Army shaped every part of me: wife, mother, soldier, paratrooper, combat medic, athlete, student, entrepreneur, investor, and marathon runner (inducted into the Six Star Finishers Hall of Fame), and Sergeant Major.

During my years of service, I was grounded by the love and unwavering support of family.

I met my husband, Christopher Pollard, Jr., in the Army. Throughout my career, he and our sons-Christopher,19, Nasir,19, and Christian, 14-were my North Star and the wind beneath my wings.

Their belief in me, even in the most demanding times, gave me strength to push further, lead harder, and rise higher. They are at the heart of every accomplishment, and the reason I was able to reach my full potential.

Together, we grew, endured, and thrived; I am endlessly grateful.

Serving, and leading, during times of peace and war, I was honored to deploy twice—15 months to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and nine months to Afghanistan during Operation Freedom’s Sentinel.

In moments of hardship and courage, I witnessed the best of the American spirit, and I remain deeply humbled by the bravery of those who came before me as well as those who gave their lives in the line of duty.

Their legacy continues in those of us who carry forward their memory and mission.

I am especially grateful for the thousands of soldiers, leaders, and mentors I’ve had the privilege of serving alongside, whether in my earliest days as a Signal Support Systems Specialist, as a combat medic, or as a Sergeant Major.

Each role shaped my character and sharpened my sense of duty.

I found strength in the airborne community, purpose in the ranks, and pride in the mission. I also found lifelong friendships, learned invaluable life lessons, and developed an enduring belief in the potential of our military family.

To the next generation of soldiers, I offer this advice: lead with integrity, serve with heart, and never underestimate your capacity for growth.

The Army is more than a profession—it’s a place where ordinary people do extraordinary things for those they serve alongside.

As I step into civilian life, I do so with immense gratitude, reverence for those lost, and unwavering hope for the future. My pride and respect for the men and women who wear the uniform will remain with me until my final breath.

With gratitude,

Sergeant Major (Retired) Evelyn Pollard, MBA

Guest blogger, Sgt. Major Pollard, retired August 5, 2025.

Wista JohnsonAugust 8, 2025