Maria A. (Johnson) Saadiqa-Turner, Cheerleader

Maria A. (Johnson) Saadiqa-Turner was born and raised in Alexandria, Virginia. She attended Charles Houston Elementary School, Parker Gray Middle School and George Washington High School. She was a cheerleader at GW until the K6222 plan came into effect; then she was bused to T.C. Williams High School where she was a cheerleader in 1971-72. She graduated in 1972.

In September 1973 Maria joined the United States Army at which time it was called the “Women Army Corps”. She served during the Viet Nam era and the Persian Gulf War. Serving as a Military Police Special Agent in the Criminal Investigations Division she traveled to various locations throughout the United States and overseas. During her stay in the military, Maria continued her education receiving her Bachelor’s Degree. She has received various awards and recognition’s to include the Meritorious Service Medal from President Bill Clinton and the Faithful Service Medal. She retired as a First Sergeant, January 31, 2000.

Maria has four children, Jivan, Jiqueyia, Eric Jr., Echanojoshua: one stepson, Oliver and one grandson, Elijah. She is married to Oliver Turner who also attended T.C. Williams High School.