MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- At the climax of World War II, most United States citizens were anxious to do their part to help the U.S. and its Allies defeat offending nations, and Alyce Williamson is one of the few women who contributed by donning a Marine Corps uniform.

A slogan campaign to recruit females to the military read, “free a man to fight,” which made an impact, said Alyce. The attractive uniform of the branch was also very enticing, she added.

Alyce was already 26 years old and had been working as a bank clerk in Chicago for five years, when her cousin’s friend came to visit, dressed in a Marine uniform.

“I had bright red hair and just knew I’d look good in that uniform,” said Alyce. “I wanted to join the Marine Corps right then.”

Alyce found herself on a train headed to Camp Lejeune, N.C., in the early part of 1944 for boot camp, after receiving her mother’s approval.

“Although I was legally old enough, it was common in those days to ask your parents permission to do things no matter what age you were,” said the Ashton, Iowa native. “As a small town girl, who attended the same school for 1-12, it was a great adventure for me.”

Although women have had their share of hardships in the military over the years, Alyce seems to only recall positive experiences, partly due to her positive outlook on life.

“Because she was from a rural community, I believe her naiveté was a benefit,” said Richard L. Williamson, Alyce’s son. “She told me that on her first night of boot camp, the drill instructors asked for two volunteers. My mom, being bright-eyed and eager to help, raised her hand. Most of the recruits knew that volunteering probably meant you’ll be scrubbing dishes, but she received an ice cream bar as a reward for her enthusiasm,” he said.

The Marine Corps and Alyce seemed to be a match. Her gung ho attitude accelerated her career as she was able to achieve the rank of staff sergeant in just two years.

Alyce spent her entire Marine Corps career in San Francisco, at the Pacific Marine Forces Headquarters. There, she worked in the personnel department of the commanding general’s office. Alyce’s unit was responsible for maintaining the records of every Marine fighting in the Pacific.

Once the war ended, most women were separated from the service. Alyce had only served two and a half years.

“That was a bitter sweet time,” said Alyce. “We were happy the war was over, but I loved my job. On the last day of work, the office played the Marine Corps’ hymn and we all wept because we knew we were a part of something great.”

By then, Alyce had already met her soon-to-be husband, a Marine who eventually served for 31 years.

Alyce continued her service as a civilian employee with the Camp Pendleton library, where she worked for 17 years.

Today, Alyce is 93 years old and is an active member of the Women Marines Association.

“I still keep in touch with people I met during my time on active duty,” said Alyce. “The Marine Corps bond is very strong.”

Memorabilia depicting women Marines like Alyce are currently on display at the Camp Pendleton Santa Margarita Ranch House through March 31.

“Life was simpler back in the day,” said Richard. “Maybe people of that time were a little naïve, but the thing that seems to be the common denominator between the women represented in this exhibit is that they are all extremely patriotic.”