Recounts Her Path To The Pilot Seat And Transition To Civilian Life

Close to 30 female officers had a rare opportunity to meet one of the first female helicopter pilots in the U.S. Navy during a female mentorship session, Jan. 21.

Anne Wilson, prior SH-60 Seahawk helicopter pilot, now small business owner and author, spoke with San Diego-based female officers about her journey as a midshipman, earning her wings, and eventually her reason for transitioning into civilian life.

As a young woman, who broke gender barriers at the U.S. Naval Academy in 1985, she witnessed many challenges that female enlisted and officers do not have to worry about today. "At the time, I did not see myself as a trailblazer for women in the military," said Wilson. "I wanted to fly and was excited for the opportunity to do that in the Navy."

During the mentorship session and follow-on discussion, Wilson was asked about the recently lifted women in combat policy.

"Looking back and seeing the incredible progression of our Navy, I am proud to say that I had an opportunity to be a part of the initiative for gender integration in the aviation community," said Wilson. "It was not always easy to be one of three women in a battle group, but the women learned to stick together and build a sisterhood. I hope that this is what women do who now have the opportunity to serve in ground combat and special operations positions. It is important that the standards not be lowered and that women are given the genuine chance to prove themselves."

Lt. j.g. Clare Plunkett, a surface warfare officer assigned to Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3, expressed her gratitude for Wilson taking the time to share her story and to inspire military women. "The mentorship session today with prior helicopter pilot Anne Wilson allowed female officers to come together to discuss some relevant issues, including gender integration," said Plunkett. "Although women are now allowed to serve on ships, submarines and in squadrons, these kinds of mentorship sessions allow us to discuss issues on our minds, and how women are continuing to evolve and impact the fleet."

Wilson reflected highly on her time in the naval service and explained how she has had a difficult time in the civilian sector finding the same camaraderie that she experienced in her squadrons. "Without a doubt, the very best people who I have worked with has been during my time in the military," said Wilson.

Rear Adm. Daniel Fillion, commander, ESG-3, provided opening remarks for the mentorship session stating that mentorship helps breed strong female leaders in the fleet. "It is your responsibility to develop the future of the fleet," said Fillion to the female officers in attendance. "As naval officers, you have the power to reinvent the job you are in and become an example for your peers, male and female alike."

(Source: U.S. Navy news release. SH-60 pictured in file photo)

FMI: www.navy.mil