Sandy: I built these huge beasts – the Buffalo Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected aka MRAP

I built these huge beasts – the Buffalo Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected aka MRAP. These vehicles are designed specifically to withstand improvised explosive device (IED) attacks and ambushes. From 2007 until 2012, the MRAP program deployed more than 12,000 vehicles in the Iraq War and war in Afghanistan.

Even though this job made me tired, sweaty, and dirty, it was important work. This was never more evident than when the troops came to the manufacturing plant and thanked us all for saving their lives. It was the best part of the job, and it always made me cry.

I can lift 100 pounds, but let me break a nail and I cry like a baby. I lived and worked on a 950 foot-long military ship for two years in the Far East. And, I found every spa in every port that gave manicures, pedicures, and a cut and style. I am a strong woman with soft hands that loves her grandkids, while trying to calm my wanderlust.