Primarily documents Nina Johnson Wiglesworth's background; service with the Marine Corps Women's Reserve from 1943 to 1945; and her life after World War II. Wiglesworth discusses her parents' musical talents; the draft; leaving home after high school; living in Washington; and her desire to help the war effort. " Topics related to the Women Marines and World War II include the slogan "Free a Man to Fight" her parents' reactions when she joined the Marines; meeting Ernest Wiglesworth on the train to Camp Lejeune; her husband's experiences in the Marines; serving as platoon leader; duties and superiors at Camp Lejeune; a memorable instructor in basic training; seeing big bands play in Washington, D.C.; the treatment of Women Marines by the men; social life, including dancing, dating, and trips to Boston and Cherry Point; patriotism; and Franklin Roosevelt. " Wiglesworth also comments on her sons' experiences and one's death during the Vietnam War; Norrie's disease; women in combat; being a military wife; and the military's effects on her life and family.