Faced with obstacles to abortion, military women have built their own support system

“Air Force Staff Sgt. Octavia James has helped fellow airmen navigate the difficult choices faced by women in the military when they are contemplating an abortion.

People usually seek James out when they don’t feel comfortable going to a commanding officer. She has invited airmen to stay in her apartment in Norfolk, Va., while they recover from an abortion. She recalls once having to help a friend out of the shower because her sedation was slow to wear off….”