I joined the Navy when I was 17. It was the best adult decision I have made in my life. I served on the USS Simon Lake AS-33, a submarine tender moored to a rock off the coast of northwest Sardinia. I served as an electrician’s mate in engineering. It was the best of times and the worst of times- literally. I was excited to be in the navy, excited to learn, but I suffered unspeakable sexual harassment and assault at the hands of my work center supervisor. I later left the navy for a better opportunity, and the skills I learned there followed me, and so did the trauma. Still love my country, love my friends, and the navy. I wouldn’t change a thing!
