Women in the U.S. Postal Inspection Service
While the Postal Inspection Service has long been inclusive, it wasn’t until 1971 that women were appointed to the position of Postal Inspector. When the first women joined, they were among the first employed as federal agents in any U.S. agency.
The First Women in the Postal Inspection Service
In September 1971, Janene Gordon and Jane Currie became the first women to complete training and earn the rank of Postal Inspector. Gordon became the first woman to achieve 20 years of service as a Postal Inspector. She served as a consumer protection specialist and undercover narcotics Inspector during her time at USPIS. Inspector Gordon also became the first female polygrapher. Polygraphers are commonly used in the Inspection Service to examine prospective agents, criminals, and alleged victims.
In October 1971, Sally Wolfe joined the ranks, and in November, Marleina Berry, the first African American woman in the position, followed suit. By 1972, Christine Macho, Patricia Achimovic, Denise Cann, and Cheryl Kinnebrew had completed training and were on their way to long and successful careers with the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Christine Macho would later become one of the first female Inspectors in Charge.
In 2022, Darshell "DD" Thombs became the first female African American polygrapher in the United States Postal Inspection Service.
An Inclusive Postal System
It took 196 years for the Postal Inspection Service to appoint women as Inspectors. In 1971, Inspector and Postal Police Officer graduating classes included women for the first time.
Today, women play a vital role and are involved in all aspects of the Postal Inspection Service, from firearms and defense tactics, to managers and executives.
HISTORY SPOTLIGHT HOMEPAGE
Explore the history of the United States Postal Inspection Service.
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