Mildred Marian Thomason
Bio
Mildred Marian Thomason decided to join the United States Air Force after nursing school, seeking adventure. She served as a nurse in Korea, Japan, and Stateside throughout her years in the military. She recalls a fond memory of meeting Marilyn Monroe while serving in Korea and also discusses some of the more light-hearted times. Upon her departure from the Air Force, she was able to further her nursing education through the G.I. Bill, ultimately working as a nurse for over fifty years, in both the military and civilian life.
Video Clips
Decision to Join the Military
Mildred Thomason reflects on her decision to join the United States Air Force after completing her initial nursing training. She recalls seeing many advertisements urging nurses to consider enlisting and shares she decided to join because she was bored living in her hometown. She remembers how she was able to ride on military airplanes without cost, which helped her see many places.
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Nursing at Her First Air Force Base
Mildred Thomason describes her first assignment at Reese Air Force Base. She explains she never received any basic training, having enlisted during a short window of time when nurses were not given any basic training. She admits she would walk across the street from other officers because she was not taught how to salute. She recalls a time, during her first assignment, when a new commanding officer thought everyone should do an obstetrics rotation. She discusses being on a rotation with an Orthopedic surgeon as the blind leading the blind. She recalls how this rotation made her want to go into obstetrics and shares she used the GI Bill after her service to pursue a B.A.
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Serving at a Small Hospital in Korea
Mildred Thomason recalls serving at a small hospital in Korea where she was stationed with fighter jet pilots. She shares how, while there, she treated minor illnesses like pneumonia. She recounts seeing Marilyn Monroe perform and even meeting her. She describes Marilyn Monroe as courteous and friendly and details how the troops were “hooping and hollering” when she came out to perform in her tight red dress. She admits it probably did raise the morale of the troops.
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