Why did I chose the Navy? My grandson asked me this question recently as we were coming back from the Army recruiting office, where he started the enlistment process. I told him that when I was his age I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I had just graduated high school and was accepted into college, but knew I didn't want to go into debt for a degree that I wasn't sure I even wanted. My dad was in the Marine Corps and my brother was in the Navy, so it seemed only logical that I should join the military. I met resistance because as a female it was not considered the normal path for women at the time. I didn't let that stop me.

I chose the Navy because I liked what it had to offer. I wanted to step out on my own and prove something to myself and to my family by doing something that mattered. I was the first female in my family to even consider joining the military, so this was new territory. I enlisted in the fall of 1982, and on my 19th birthday, I left my home in California and headed to RTC Orlando for basic training. I enjoyed my time in the Navy and did well. I reached the rank of Personnelman 2nd Class by the time my four-year enlistment ended. I got to meet a lot of really great people and I consider it the best job that I ever had.

To this day I encourage anyone who isn't certain what they want to do with their life to enlist. It can be a great job, and a great way to meet people and see the world.

Darla (Cron) Vinton, American Legion Post 45, Hastings, Mich.