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Military Experiences
Sep 1975 - Sep 1976
Tactical Wire Operations Specialist
I was responsible for maintaining all communications equipment, mostly housed on the vehicles. This required my duty station to be in the motor pool, and I was faced with many challenges as the only woman there. When we went out on field maneuvers, all of the women in my unit participated, but the women in admin were allowed to go home at night while I stayed out in the field. I didn't mind, but I thought all of us should be out there.
The harassment in the field and the motor pool was nearly unbearable, both physical and sexual. I only wanted to do my job like everyone else. In the 70's no one cared enough to do anything about it.
After I married and became pregnant, I chose to leave the Army. Ft. Hood was a dreadful place for a young woman. However, I did learn how to be tough.
Jul 1975 - Sep 1975
AIT training for Tactical Wire Operations Specialist. I was the 4th woman to attempt training for this MOS, and the 2nd to complete it. It was a challenge for everyone there, particularly the pole climbing.
The gaffs that I wore were made to fit a man, and were much too loose. I persevered, much to the chagrin of the Drill Sergeant, who insisted I didn't belong and was hell-bound to prove it.
I like to think that my courage at climbing the telephone poles was an inspiration to the men I trained with, for none of them were willing to be "bested" by a woman.
I had my "15 minutes of fame" when a magazine crew came out and interviewed me in the Pole Orchard. I surely wish I'd thought to get a copy. They took photos and everything.
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