Geraldene Felton
Bio
Geraldene Felton was born in Norfolk, Virginia, and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After receiving her initial education in nursing, she joined the U.S. Army Nursing Corps in 1949, seeking adventure and stability. She served a thirteen-month tour in Korea in a MASH hospital unit. Upon returning Stateside, she attended higher education for nursing, ultimately receiving her Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate degrees with the support of the G.I. Bill. She specialized in nursing anesthesia and served in the Army for twenty-six years. Upon her retirement, she became a nursing educator, ending her civilian career as the Dean of the School of Nursing at the University of Iowa.
Video Clips
Influence of the Military on Her Life
Geraldene Felton recalls the immense impact of the U.S. Army on her life. She expresses she is especially grateful for the support of the G.I. Bill and how it allowed her to practice nursing and develop her career. She shares that the rules in the military were something she enjoyed, as well as the structure the military provided.
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Serving as a Nurse in Korea
Geraldene Felton describes military nursing in Korea and the living conditions while there. She recalls feeling very protected by the men in Korea. At the time of her service in Korea, she says she was a regular nurse and was there when there was active conflict. She describes how the MASH units worked and how they would move depending on where the fighting was located. She notes her tour of duty in Korea was thirteen months.
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Setting up MASH Units and Feelings on Respect for Women in Korea
Geraldene Felton reflects on the treatment of women in Korea and feels that she was highly respected by her superior. She shares she felt very protected by the men serving there. She describes the process of moving the MASH units as well as her living conditions within Korea.
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Later Career and Message to Students
Geraldene Felton describes her gratitude for the military. She feels her long career in military nursing prepared her for her later career as a nurse anesthetist and later a nursing educator. She recommends people work hard and take advantage of opportunities when they arise. She expresses her gratitude for the opportunities she received as a member of the U.S. Army Nursing Corps.
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