Josephine Krowinski
Bio
Josephine A. Krowinski was born in East Boston, Massachusetts, and worked as a nurse before enlisting in the Army Nurse Corps on July 27, 1942—one of 59,000 women to serve. During World War II, she was stationed at a U.S. military hospital outside London, then in France near the Battle of the Bulge. After the war, she joined the Army Reserve. When the Korean War began, she arrived in Pusan in December 1950 and was stationed at Yong Durk Po. She served with the 160th Neurosurgical Unit, attached to the 8209 MASH, where she helped to treat head injuries and rotated between MASH units as needed. In March 1953, she returned home and was honorably discharged. Afterward, she pursued a college education and continued her career as a registered nurse at a local hospital. Her service spanned two wars and demonstrated lifelong dedication to caring for others.
Video Clips
Army Pay
Josephine Krowinski does not recall her exact pay as an Army nurse during the early years of her service. However, she remembers sending every check directly to her mother in Boston. She knew her mother needed the money more than she did, so she selflessly chose to support her family instead of keeping the pay for herself.
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A Nurse's Duty in Korean War
Before her assignment, Josephine Krowinski knew nothing about Korea. However, she trusted the Army to send nurses where they were needed most. Since graduating nursing school in 1942, she focused on doing what she did best—caring for others. She does not remember feeling afraid and always felt prepared for whatever came her way.
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They Took Care of Us
Josephine Krowinski recalls feeling well-protected by the military doctors she worked alongside. G.I.s were always nearby, looking out for her safety. As a woman serving in a war zone, she felt respected and treated with dignity, which made her experience both positive and memorable.
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