Navy’s ordinates in the Pacific, from Pearl Harbor to the northern part of Japan. “Continue to be the professional that needs to be in that position. Provide them the means. Reward them for a good job. Be firm in your decisions and discipline.” Through her time with the Navy, Deb found that she learned about leadership and how to be decisive in her decisions. Most importantly she found the ability to publicly speak. “Learned experience makes you who you are.” These lessons helped her when she moved back to the area and wanted to be involved in politics. Being in the military taught her that politicians are who make the decisions that affect you. She’s always been aware and interested in politics but as an officer it’s important to be awpolitical. She was free to pick who she wanted to support and voice her beliefs. There was an opening that Deb had applied for but wasn’t selected and then a seat opened up for County Commissioner. Deb decided to run because she wanted to do something for the new community she was a part of. “It couldn’t be any harder than what I’ve already been through.” Deb used the lessons from the Navy and her childhood and she credits that for being a successful County Commissioner. It was a rewarding 4 years and Deb had new challenges and touch decisions but she got to meet new people and she enjoyed every moment. NAPA Junction would be Deb’s success story. “It was a real fight and it was great when it came to fruition.” Deb wasn’t bothered by working with men, “we are equal.” Getting through dive school and being a diver was a moment that defined Deb. “It put me in a situation where I knew that I could do more than I ever thought I could. Pushed me past limits I didn’t know I had. Everything in your background contributes to who you are now.” Deb continues to stay active and involved. She was just elected Chair of the Government Affairs Committee of the Chamber. She is still on the Habitat for Humanity Committee. She does volunteer taxes at the center, something she has done for the past 9 years. “I need to be active and involved because this has been my life for 30 years.” Deb was also just elected Chairmen of the Republican Party in Yankton County. “Retirement isn’t everything it’s cracked up to be.” “I think there shouldn’t be any barriers to women being successful. Believe in yourself. Reach for that gold ring. If you want something, reach for it.” n Ready to enter water; she’s venting air inside the suit using her chin button. The full suit and helmet with weighted boots weighs 180 lbs. Monitor salvage operations. Another diver and Deb are descending to the site of the Civil War vessel USS MONITOR on a stage. They are using mixed gas, helium/oxygen. Their depth will be 240 feet. Dive school training on the MK 12 system. Winter Can Do Terrible Things To Your Roof Spring is around the corner, give us a call today for a FREE inspection! 1600 Whiting Dr., Yankton, SD (605) 857-1472 “We’ve Got You Covered” •NO OBLIGATION Inspection & Estimate • Insurance Preferred Contractor • Licensed / Bonded / Insured HERVOICEvMARCH/APRIL 2019v7