Prudence Burns Burrell

Prudence Hathaway Burrell (née Burns; March 23, 1916 – February 29, 2012) was an African American nurse and author.

During World War II, she served in the Army Nurse Corps in segregated hospitals, mainly in the Pacific theater.

[5][6] She eventually attained the rank of first lieutenant, but was technically not allowed to treat white troops.

[3] On October 15, 1943, she and her unit were stationed in Australia for six months before they were transferred to a hospital in Milne Bay, New Guinea.

[1] She received a presidential award honoring outstanding African Americans who served with distinction during World War II from President Bill Clinton during the 24th Annual Congressional Black Caucus legislative weekend.

Surgical ward treatment at the 268th Station Hospital in 1944 with Prudence Burns on the left, standing next to Elcena Towncent and an unidentified nurse.
Surgical ward treatment at the 268th Station Hospital in 1944 with Prudence Burns on the left, standing next to Elcena Towncent and an unidentified nurse.