Sharon Hightower

Sharon Hightower enlisted in the United States Air Force and achieved the rank of Sergeant.

During her service, Ms. Hightower worked with the 831st Civil Engineering Squadron Tactical Air Command as an Environmental Support Specialist in Water Treatment Technology. Her years of service in active duty were 1983 through 1987.

Of Native American and African American descent, Ms. Hightower was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx.

Ms. Hightower excelled in her duties and recalls a glowing review she received from her supervising officers that noted, “She brought harmony to the shop” where she worked. She was instrumental in assisting plumbers during a major water break on base, for which she and crew each received certificates of recognition.

Ms. Hightower continues to excel and support her community, Nation, and New York State. She has attended several local events and takes part in neighborhood, city and national associations including Gay Men’s Health Crisis, Pride Agenda, Heritage of Pride, United Negro College Fund, and the National Association for Black Veterans, Inc., just to name a few.

A survivor of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Military Sexual Trauma (PTSD/MST), Ms. Hightower is currently part of SAGEVets, a New York State program for older LGBTQ+ veterans. The goal of the program is working toward appropriate support to address the trauma, which occurred during her service.

Ms. Hightower inspires other survivors to take advantage of the VA’s PTSD/MST-related supportive services. She was part of one of the first support groups at the VA for women working on overcoming these issues.

Ms. Hightower volunteers her artistic skills and aura of harmony to the VA’s Creative Arts Therapy. This is a program designed to help veterans manage stress and substance abuse, and cope with symptoms of PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury, while also improving their sense of self-esteem and overall physical and mental health. This endeavor has earned her countless top honors for her participation for nearly three decades in the local Annual Veterans Art Show & Contest.