FOunder's Story

Major (Retired) Natalie J. M. McBurney

Founder, Soldier Girl Boutique, Inc.

Born and raised in South Buffalo, New York, Major (Retired) Natalie J. M. McBurney exemplifies resilience, leadership, and dedication through 31 years of service in the United States Army and Army Reserves. As a veteran of both Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Spartan Shield (OSS), Natalie understands the challenges faced by female veterans, servicewomen, and their families. Rising through the ranks from Private to Major, she demonstrated unwavering commitment to both her country and the women she now advocates for.

Natalie enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1992 and completed Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana, as a Personnel Specialist. In 2003, she graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in Biology/Pre-Med and later earned her commission as a Second Lieutenant (2LT) through the Longhorn Battalion. Her pursuit of self-improvement continued with a master’s degree in the Human Dimensions of Organizations (HDO) from the same university in 2017.

Her career, decorated with numerous accolades such as the Order of St. Maurice – Legionnaire (L05308) and several service medals, saw her face personal battles alongside her professional successes. As a senior major, she confronted PTSD, anxiety, addiction, and depression, ultimately seeking help and transforming her life through extensive work on her personal well-being.

Natalie is keenly aware of the pressures female veterans face to downplay their accomplishments and strength to avoid intimidating others. Throughout her career, she experienced firsthand the struggle to find balance between being assertive and approachable, powerful yet apologetic. Through Soldier Girl Boutique (SGB) she fosters an environment where women no longer need to apologize for their confidence or achievements. She believes in creating a community where leadership, resilience, and competence are celebrated rather than minimized, and where female veterans and servicewomen can embrace their full potential without fear of judgment.

Through Soldier Girl Boutique, Natalie channels her personal experiences into action. The boutique offers support, resources, and trauma-informed care for female veterans, servicewomen, and their families. Soldier Girl Boutique addresses mental health, military sexual trauma (MST), race-based trauma, LGBTQ+ trauma, burnout trauma, childhood trauma, and the challenges of reintegration into civilian life. Natalie’s personal story stands as a testament not only to the strength and resilience of female veterans and servicewomen but also to the profound impact trauma has had on her family, particularly her son.

Her advocacy also tackles the systemic issues that prevent many servicewomen from accessing mental health support without fear of judgment or career repercussions. She campaigns for non-punitive, confidential counseling options with civilian providers that allow women to heal without their struggles affecting their military careers and at no cost to themselves.

Natalie’s dedication to building a supportive network reflects her belief in the power of community, empowerment, and holistic well-being. Soldier Girl Boutique provides support to families when a mother is overwhelmed, offering counseling, school supplies, or essential care to children, ensuring that fellow warriors can step in when needed. As she continues to grow SGB Natalie remains focused on her own healing and growth, recognizing the importance of self-care as a leader.

“SGB is for women warriors, by women warriors, so please don’t let the pink, girlie stuff fool ya!” — Major (Retired) Natalie J. M. McBurney

“If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.” – Margaret Thatcher

“Turn your wounds into wisdom.” – Oprah Winfrey