COLUMBIA, Md. — The Howard County Veterans Foundation will hold a panel discussion and book signing with Lena Andrews, author of the new book “Valiant Women,” which tells the story of the 350,000 women who served in uniform during World War II. The event will take place Thursday, Sept. 7, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Busboys and Poets in Columbia, Md.

Joining the panel will be Edna W. Cummings, a retired colonel in the U.S. Army and historian for the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-African American Women’s Army Corps unit deployed during World War II. Tonya Aikens, president and CEO of the Howard County Library System, will moderate the panel.

Event proceeds will benefit the Howard County Veterans Foundation, which is raising $2.75 million to build and maintain the Howard County Veterans and Military Families Monument planned for downtown Columbia.

Tickets to the event cost $100 and include light refreshments and a copy of “Valiant Women” signed by the author. To purchase tickets and learn about event sponsorship, visit HowardCountyVeterans.org/events/valiant-women.

The Howard County Veterans Foundation honors the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families who live, work or play in Howard County. The foundation holds events dedicated to veterans issues and is developing the Howard County Veterans and Military Families Monument. (HowardCountyVeterans.org)