1. INTRODUCTION HEATHER DINGLEY

2. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA I attended public schools at a time when women and education were just beginning to gain traction in the social scene.

3. I made a bold decision and joined the Navy in 1979 Women weren’t serving in all fields of the military and my choice (cryptology) made sailors angry as my billet on shore meant someone had to tour at sea longer than usual.

4. My time in the Navy I served 12 years before being discharged for disqualifying medical conditions – I was injured and repairs were beyond the scope of the military doctors. I enjoyed my time, especially, as Training Petty Officer. I taught the command how to use the equipment and fulfill the mission. I was a good TPO and was very proud of the work my troops conducted.

5. Discharge I was discharged, with two young boys, and didn’t have enough time to make plans for us. We were homeless. I held a variety of jobs and attended college when I could, which, was next to impossible.

6. Finally, a break… I moved to California, with my daughter, after a divorce to join an old Navy friend. It is here that I, finally, had a chance to finish school.

7. The Future I hope to teach once I have achieved my Master’s Degree. My focus is on reading literacy and I am aware of the global need for teachers, especially, in the area of reading. I want to be a part of solving this crisis, however small.