Iraq Linguist Stars in Veteran Pin-Up Calendar

Lindsey Schmidt, an Arabic linguist and interrogator who served nine years in the Army, including missions in Iraq, is now featured in the 21st annual Pin-Ups For Vets calendar. This initiative showcases 13 female veterans in vintage styles, aiming to highlight their femininity and accomplishments.

The award-winning nonprofit Pin-Ups For Vets, founded in 2006, produces World War II-era calendars starring veterans to raise money for hospitalized and deployed troops. Proceeds support care packages, rehabilitation equipment for VA hospitals, and aid for homeless veterans.

Schmidt, nicknamed 'Xena,' initially wanted to learn Russian but was directed to Arabic in 2002 due to military needs. She faced challenges as the only woman in her battalion during deployment, with some initially questioning her presence. However, her persistence and effectiveness in gathering intelligence from women and children, a task difficult for male soldiers, ultimately earned her respect and acceptance.

Schmidt now uses her platform to emphasize appreciation for freedoms and opportunities often taken for granted in the United States, particularly for women. She highlights basic rights like driving, voting, and holding a job as significant privileges not universally available.