In the quiet town of Strasburg, Virginia, lives a woman whose life story defies convention and expectation. Barbara Plitt, a Navy veteran, feminist, and floral designer, has carved out a path marked by bold choices and unwavering self-expression. Her journey, which includes military service, solo world travel, and a kaleidoscope of careers, offers a powerful reminder of the many ways women contribute, lead, and inspire—often without the recognition they deserve. Her story is a compelling example of the resilience and versatility of female veterans.

Plitt’s military career began in 1987, when she joined the U.S. Navy at age 35—just two days before reaching the maximum enlistment age. With no prior experience in electronics, she trained as an avionics technician, repairing aircraft circuit boards under a microscope. She credits her success in this highly technical field to the steady hands and artistic eye she had developed through years of floral design. It was a leap into the unknown, but one that reflected her lifelong refusal to be boxed in by traditional expectations.

“I refused to learn to type in school so I couldn’t be made to be someone’s secretary,” Plitt shared. “That was all they offered girls back then: secretary, nurse, teacher or mother.” Her words reflect a generation of women who were often steered into limited roles, and her choices illustrate a determination to chart her own course.

Plitt’s career path before and after her time in the Navy is as varied as it is vibrant. She has worked as a security guard, shoplifter catcher, interior decorator, radio host, lampshade maker, and even a cattle hand raking hay. For a year, she traveled the country alone in a tent, and she’s circled the globe solo. These experiences paint a portrait of someone who embraces life with curiosity and courage, embodying the spirit of a trailblazer who refuses to be defined by any single label.

Despite her pride in her military service, Plitt is candid about the challenges that women veterans continue to face. One telling example came when she and her husband joined the American Legion. “We filled out separate applications and paid separate fees,” she recalled, “but they only mailed everything to him.” For Plitt, it was a reminder that women in uniform are still too often overlooked, even within organizations meant to honor their contributions.

“We still haven’t progressed enough to acknowledge the role of women in the military,” she said. “They do a lot and they don’t get near the credit they should.” These words reflect a broader issue in the veteran community, where female service members frequently report feeling invisible or underappreciated. I found this detail striking—it underscores how recognition remains a critical part of honoring all who serve, regardless of gender.

Plitt’s feminist perspective was shaped early in life. A talented swimmer who once ranked No. 1 in the Washington, D.C. area, she was denied a place on her high school swim team simply because it was designated for boys. This early experience of exclusion left a lasting impression and helped fuel her lifelong commitment to challenging gender norms.

Today, at 73, Plitt is semi-retired but continues to work in a local flower shop. Her love for art and creativity remains a central part of her life. She’s known for her recycled art installations, crafted from items donated by friends and strangers alike. One particularly memorable piece features a CPR mannequin torso painted and mailed to her by a tourist she met on her front porch. These works are scattered throughout her property, each one a testament to her imaginative spirit and community ties.

Plitt is also an active member of the Strasburg Witchy Dancing Queens, a group of older women who perform choreographed routines at community events. Whether dressed as jellyfish, witches, or hippies, the group brings joy and laughter to local gatherings. “I’m a current hippie,” Plitt joked. “I believe in trying new things.” Her involvement in this group highlights her continued zest for life and her commitment to community engagement.

For Plitt, Strasburg has become a place of comfort and connection. “Every place has its pros and cons, and there’s turbulence in the world,” she said. “I still find comfort in the people of this town, and that’s a huge thing.” Her appreciation for her community reflects a groundedness that balances her adventurous past, and it speaks to the importance of belonging, especially for those who have lived many lives in one.

Barbara Plitt’s story is a vivid illustration of how one person can defy stereotypes and live life with authenticity and purpose. From her time as a Navy avionics technician to her ongoing work as a floral designer and artist, she continues to challenge norms and inspire others. Her experiences remind us that veterans come from all walks of life, and their stories are as diverse as the paths they’ve taken. In honoring those stories, we move closer to a fuller, more inclusive understanding of service and sacrifice.

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