Profile of Courage Alexandra Crichlow
Alexandra Crichlow
U.S. Air Force, 1981- 1983
While working on her bachelor’s degree in engineering, Alex was recruited by the Air Force. She was the only woman assigned to a unit comprised of 26 men. During her time in service, she faced constant harassment and sexual assaults. Her pleas for protection and transfer requests were continually denied until she became pregnant.
For more than 20 years after leaving the military she suffered from post-traumatic stress as a result of the military sexual trauma, as well as long bouts of agoraphobia. Over those years she relied on support from her counselor at Swords to Plowshares who helped her and her daughter through some of their darkest days.
After years of counseling and time to heal, Alex found it therapeutic to give back to the community and volunteer at Swords. For many years, Alex and her daughter would help out at Swords’ annual holiday luncheons for homeless veterans. She remains dedicated to her volunteer efforts and always finds new ways to heal through community activism.
Today, Alex operates the WholeVet program through AMVETS, delivering supportive services to veterans in need.
