Military service and sacrifice have also marked the lives of countless women. During Women’s History Month, we are reminded that many of these stories of courage and commitment are represented right here within the women of Legacy Senior Living. Some served in uniform, answering the call of duty with bravery and resolve. Others stood faithfully beside spouses who served, raising families through deployments, relocations, uncertainty and loss. During World War II, the Vietnam War and beyond, women stepped into factories, offices, and essential roles that kept the country moving forward. Their strength on the home front and abroad is woven into the fabric of American history.
Emma Pullen (88), Legacy Village at Plantation Manor, had two goals: to become a nurse and to join the Air Force. At age 26, she accomplished both. Emma served as a First Lieutenant and was based in Cape Cod and Turkey serving as a nurse to servicemen. After her tour of active duty, she joined the Air Force Reserves, providing medical transportation from all over Europe.
Vivian Potthast’s (98), Renaissance Senior Living of Hilldale, career was in bookkeeping, but she feels like her most significant career contribution was during WWII when she served as a Deputy Clerk at the Circuit Court. She helped maintain the essential functions of the court system at a time when the judiciary was under intense pressure. She was responsible for handling sensitive legal documents, managing increased wartime casework and ensuring that both local and federal court operations stayed organized and efficient.
Faye Holland (93), Legacy Village of Park Regency, spent her early years as an Army wife, a time that is blessed with a close community and a deep appreciation for making each moment count. When her husband, Colonel Hoyt Holland, retired, the two dedicated themselves to serving veterans. They were instrumental in fund raising and purchasing the Veterans Bus where they would help volunteer serving struggling veterans with food and cold drinks.
Women of the past century also stood at the center of social change. From the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for Women’s Rights, to shifts in workplace opportunities, many witnessed and participated in moments that reshaped the nation. Some marched, some advocated quietly in their communities, and others broke barriers simply by showing up in spaces that once excluded them. Their courage helped open doors for future generations.
Pamela White (68), The Harbor at Douglasville, spent every summer in Elberton, Georgia with her grandmother. During these visits, she witnessed widespread racial discrimination and observed the significant challenges many elderly people faced in meeting their basic needs. A firm believer that everyone deserves equal treatment and access to basic living needs, Pamela participated in rallies and protests. She dedicated her life to community development to help correct the injustices she experienced and witnessed.
Barbara Creagan (93), Legacy Village of Cleveland, got her real estate license, was a political activist and was very active in the 60’s Women’s Rights Movement. Barbara was a state delegate and went to Washington D.C. where she pushed for legal, workplace and reproductive equality for women. After her career in politics, she returned home to Iowa and started an antiques repair business.
Whether in uniform, in courtrooms, on military bases or in community movements, these women demonstrated that service takes many forms. Their dedication shaped families, communities and a nation.
