Marie Miller shows off her Women's Army Corps medal.

In May 1942, the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps was formed as a means of support for servicemen entering World War II.

In January 1943, 21-year-old Esther “Marie” Miller of Butler enlisted.

Now nearing her 100th birthday, Miller reflects on her life as a resident of Butler and her service to her country.

According to Miller, who lived on Virginia Avenue her entire life until recently, she couldn't wait to enter the WAAC. One of her brothers left for service in the Army at 16 years old and was stationed at Pearl Harbor, where he survived the bombing attack by the Japanese Navy Air Service in 1941.

“I was disgusted with civilian life,” Miller said.The oldest of six children, Miller said life before the service was full of hard work. By age 12, she was on the job babysitting, ironing and even taking care of an elderly woman for $6 an hour.“I applied to become a WAAC in November of 1942 when I turned 21, and started in January of 1943,” Miller said.<b> A portion of this story is shared with you as a digital media exclusive. To read the full story and support our local, independent newsroom, please subscribe at butlereagle.com. </b>

Miller in uniform during her service in World War II.SUBMITTED PHOTO