In 1972, Lt. Deborah Wilson was among the first group of women to be admitted into a coed ROTC program and was one of the first seven women who participated in Purdue’s first coed ROTC unit. Following graduation, Young reported to NAVFAC Midway Island, where she qualified as an operations watch officer. Shown in the photo, which was taken right after commissioning, are the original women from the first Purdue ROTC coed unit from left to right, Deborah Wilson, Patty Young, Renee Jeremiah and Lucy Young. Lucy Young went to flight school and ultimately left the Navy to become a civilian pilot. Jeremiah and Wilson became communications watch officers. Wilson commissioned as one of the last undesignated unrestricted line officers, and served on active duty for 13 years as a lieutenant.

Last Updated: 29 March 2023