Emily Drake graduated from Aspinwall High School in 1943 with dreams of becoming a reporter.
She enrolled at the then-Robert Morris School of Business but was interrupted by an even bigger calling — World War II.
“My sister-in-law joined the service and when she went in, I said, ‘I’m not sitting at home. I’m going too,’ ” she said.
Drake — who will turn 101 on July 4 — enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps in 1944. She used her newly acquired stenography skills to take testimony from incoming GI’s.
More than eight decades later, Drake’s story has come full circle. Robert Morris University recognized the sacrifice and awarded her an honorary degree, symbolically completing the academic journey she paused in service to the nation.
“Oh my goodness gracious,” Drake said. “It could make me cry.”
Dressed in a navy blue gown, Drake, who now lives in O’Hara, became an official Colonial during RMU’s spring graduate ceremony Friday at the school’s UPMC Events Center in Moon.
“We are so proud to honor Emily and showcase her courage, trailblazing spirit and lifelong dedication to our country,” said RMU President Michelle Patrick. “Her patriotism and selflessness continue to inspire our entire community.”
John Locke, RMU’s chief experience officer, said it was important to school leaders to recognize Drake’s ties to campus.
“We love that she was prepared for the Army because of her time here,” Locke said. “It was one of the things that propelled her career in the Army.”
Born in Sharpsburg to Polish immigrants, Drake said her father came to America to find work in Pittsburgh’s steel mills.
By the time she graduated high school, Drake had already worked two years for the War Production Board in Pittsburgh, traveling by trolley from Sharpsburg.
But she wanted to follow in the footsteps of her older brothers overseas — Edward, who was drafted into the Army, and Walter, who joined the Marine Corps.
Drake became one of 150,000 women to serve in the WAC’s non-combat roles during WWII.
“I didn’t graduate from Robert Morris but I was knowledgeable enough by that time that I was able to use my skills,” she said.
At just 19, she was tasked with documenting the personal stories of incoming soldiers, shaping her lifelong understanding of sacrifice and service.
The creation of the WAC marked a significant step in women’s military participation.
According to the Women Veterans Alliance, women today comprise 10% of the veteran population, up from just 4% at the turn of the century.
By 2040, women are expected to be 18% of the veteran population, making them the fastest growing group of veterans.
When the war ended in 1945, Drake had hoped to stay overseas working for the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw. But the quota of foreign assignments was filled.
She ultimately worked in Europe for nearly 20 years — as an Air Force civilian at Ramstein Air Base in what was then West Germany during the Cold War.
When she finally returned home to the Lower Valley, Drake remained vigilant in supporting the veteran community through public speaking engagements and other volunteerism.
She was introduced to RMU leaders through a breakfast club hosted by the school’s Center for Veterans and Military Families. Last year, she spoke at Women Veterans Celebration Luncheon at the Greensburg YWCA and for years has attended the Fishing Derby for Veterans at O’Hara Community Park sponsored by the Morningside VFW.
The socialization provides Drake the chance to connect with other veterans, share stories and resources, and offer support.
She said it’s been the greatest achievement in her life — but the honorary degree is pretty special, too.
“It is touching,” she said. “I don’t think I deserve it.”