Opinion: She broke barriers in the Army. Now she faces a new battle.

Army Master Sgt. Janina Simmons broke barriers as the first Black woman to successfully complete Ranger School. Now, she’s fighting an even tougher battle − cancer.

She’s not alone. There are 43,000 new cancer diagnoses among veterans every year.

Simmons’ journey illustrates the true strength of a warrior, and why we owe our gratitude to those who sacrifice so much for our nation − on Veterans Day and every day of the year.

When I first heard of Simmons five years ago, I was amazed at her achievements. As a young fiery soldier, she broke every glass ceiling and crushed every record with confidence and might.

She was no ordinary soldier. Her service was marked by an ambition that did not recognize boundaries. She charged through the most demanding military........

© USA TODAY