November Book Review Breakfast: 'The Women,' by Kristin Hannah

Lois Miles presents a red, white, and blue bouquet to speaker Michelle Auton, Veteran Service Officer, after her discussion of The Women at the November Book Review Breakfast, in honor of her service and Veterans Day on Nov. 11. 

Michelle Auton, U.S. Army Veteran and Veteran Service Officer reviewed The Women by Kristin Hannah at the November Book Review Breakfast. While Michelle served in the 1990s, she was able to offer plenty of insight into the story of a Vietnam-era Army nurse, the subject of Hannah's book. And she provided insight into how some of the issues facing those women are still facing today's female members of the Armed Services, whatever the branch.

The Women is the story of one woman gone to war as a nurse in Vietnam, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten. A novel about deep friendships and bold patriotism, The Women is a richly drawn story with a memorable heroine whose idealism and courage under fire will come to define an era.

Michelle graduated from high school in 1989 and enlisted in the United States Army later that same year. Serving first as a nuclear weapons specialist in Germany, Michelle later qualified as a combat medic, serving the 24^th Infantry Battalion in Fort Stewart, Georgia.

After her service, Michelle shifted to specializing in senior care in the skilled nursing and assisted living settings as a National Certified Dementia Practitioner, National Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional and a State Certified Assisted Living Administrator.

She has been happily married to her husband, Billy Auton, for over 23 years, and they have three children — Regan, Michael, and Coy — and three grandchildren. Currently, they share their home with what they lovingly call their “small zoo.”

Today, Michelle continues to serve as a Veteran Service Officer and passionate Veteran Advocate, dedicating countless volunteer hours to support her fellow veterans and their families throughout the community. Her commitment to service didn’t end with her uniform, it simply evolved into a new mission: standing beside those who served.