In 1942, at the age of 22 years, when things started getting mixed up in this old world, my husband was called back in the service.
We were in San Antonio, Texas, so (we) moved to Oklahoma City.
(I had) a baby girl who was 2 years old at that time, but I wanted to help out, also, so she went to a babysitter. I joined a group of people for training near the state Capitol. When three months were up, we were sent to Tinker Field doing things we had been trained to do.
Lots (of the work) was easy at first, but it felt good to be helping out, doing what we could do, and we felt needed.
I came from a family of 15 — 10 brothers and four sisters. There were five of my brothers in the service in World War II. All came home, somewhat mixed up, but that was understandable. They all served overseas.
My husband wasn’t near us but in the states. And (he) remained in 26 years. Been gone now 11 years; cancer of the lungs.
I still live across from Tinker Air Force Base. Do volunteer work at the base, a long time. Went to the meetings now and then (that) the “Rosie’s” have.
Enjoyed it over the years — and always felt good about what I did to help out.
Submitted by Mary E. Hardy, 87, of Midwest City
