When Athena Wright enlisted in the U.S. military during World War II, she could never have imagined the extraordinary life that awaited her. Now, more than 80 years later, her community is honoring her legacy of courage, selflessness, and service with an unforgettable birthday surprise.
Athena’s Journey Begins
Born in Massachusetts on August 25, 1915, Athena Wright witnessed the world change dramatically. As a young woman, she dreamt of becoming a nurse and moved to New York City to pursue that goal. But in 1939, as the world teetered on the brink of another war, Athena’s path took a sharp turn. With the world plunged into conflict, she felt a deep calling to serve her country.
In September 1941, just months before the attack on Pearl Harbor, Wright enlisted in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps. She became a second lieutenant and dedicated herself to caring for the soldiers who risked their lives in the battlefront. She famously said, “They are going to get sick. They are going to get hurt. Somebody’s got to take care of them. So, I said, ‘I’ll go.’” This selfless decision would shape the rest of her life.
Courage on the Frontlines of New Guinea
After initial postings in Delaware and Australia, Wright found herself on the frontlines of the New Guinea Campaign in the Pacific, one of the most brutal battles of World War II. As a nurse with the 18th Station Hospital, she worked tirelessly under difficult and dangerous conditions. Amidst the chaos of war, Athena met and fell in love with a major in the U.S. Medical Corps, who would later become her husband.
Wright’s bravery and dedication were recognized with two Bronze Stars for her service in combat. In 1944, after three years in active duty, she retired from military service and continued her passion for helping others as a nurse at Mount Alto Veterans Hospital in Washington, D.C. For the next 17 years, she cared for injured veterans, eventually working at the National Institutes of Health before retiring to Scottsdale, Arizona, where she became an integral part of her community.
Honoring a Local Hero
As Athena’s 105th birthday approached, her local community in Scottsdale wanted to show their appreciation for her lifelong service. Despite the challenges of the ongoing pandemic, they found a way to celebrate her in a meaningful and safe way.
On her special day, the city organized a heartwarming parade in her honor. Cars filled with friends, neighbors, and even local police and fire departments drove by, honking and cheering for the beloved WWII veteran. The icing on the cake came from Vice Mayor Solange Whitehead, who presented Athena with a birthday cake and declared August 25, 2020, “Athena Wright Day.”
Standing outside her retirement home, Athena was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from her community. In a moving speech, she encouraged her neighbors to continue her mission of helping others in need, reminding everyone of the power of selflessness.
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