Patti Jillson:  

I started with the Herlong graduating class of 1961, but met up with some hurdles along the way. We moved to Portola, CA in '54, and I was in a bad bicycle accident, and landed on my head on the pavement. Spent 2 weeks in the hospital in a coma, and had learning challenges for the next 2 years. Had to take 5th and 6th grades over. In '56, my dad died. Mom remarried after a time, and we moved to Susanville. Then back home to Herlong. I finished 9th grade, worked at the local coffee shop, and when I was almost 18, took the GED to go in the service. Surprized to find out my name wasn't Patty Pratt. According to the birth certificate, my legal name is Elizabeth Grace Garner. So, my new adventures upon leaving Herlong with a different name was wrought with interesting changes to say the least. I joined the WAC'S, and flew to Ft. McClellan, AL for basic training and clerical school. With the purpose of finding out what field I was best suited for, as well as feeding my ever-independent spirit, I accomplished what I wanted to do, and it kept me focused and out of unnecessary issues that come with that age group. After five weeks of school, I had to be recycled (long story, bad field mouse; painful rabies series). I didn't mind taking the class over, since I knew the extra time would allow for better typing speed. I received several awards after school, and presented with the honor of being the only one to be assigned to White Sands Missile Range, NM. There, I served as private secretary to the commanding officer of the WAC detachment. She was invited to attend all the activities given for the launching of missiles, with the hope of someday going to the moon. I loved my job, but doubted that we'd ever get to the moon. Ha Ha! As her private secretary, it was necessary for me to be at her side at all times for these momentous...Expand for more