Raquel Riley Thomas was motivated to enlist by her family’s legacy of service.
“My grandmother and her brother served, as did my mother and her sister. I felt a deep sense of duty to continue the tradition of service to my country,” she said.
Thomas spent nine years in the Army, and today, she is a member of VFW Post 10822. Her participation in her local Post is just one of the ways she is #StillServing.
As the owner of a media and entertainment company, Thomas empowers fellow veterans and other individuals by amplifying diverse voices and fostering inclusivity within the industry. She is also affiliated with Veterans in Media & Entertainment to further promote veteran representation.
Outside of work, Thomas supports Operation Renewed Hope, an organization that assists veterans experiencing homelessness. She is also a lifetime member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., which allows her to take part in a range of community development initiatives.
Thomas says that her most cherished undertaking is Queen V Day, which she started to honor her late mother, also a veteran.
“It’s a deeply personal project, born from the tragic loss of my mother to suicide,” Thomas said. “It serves as a poignant tribute to her memory and legacy and is aimed at providing deserving veterans with pampering experiences.”
Thomas was inducted into the Library of Congress in recognition of her service. She has also received several accolades, including the 2023 President’s Volunteer Service Award, and she has no plans of slowing down.
“I continue to be involved with various boards and organizations so I can keep advocating for veterans, women’s empowerment and mental health awareness,” she said.