In this episode of Living History with Alex, we sit down with Ms. Lupe Casanova, a retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant (E-8) who served 22 years in the Army Reserves and spent two years on active duty in Germany.

Lupe shares what inspired her to join in 1981, what basic training was like for a woman at that time, and why Germany became one of the most memorable chapters of her life—including cultural experiences and historic moments like visiting Berlin while the wall was still up. She also talks about her transition into the Reserves, her work as a Career Counselor, and the importance of contracts and guidance for soldiers’ careers.

She brings artifacts from her service and explains the meaning behind her uniform, ranks, and awards.

🌟 Topics Covered:

🇺🇸 Why she joined the Army (1981)

👩‍✈️ Basic training as a woman in the 80s

🇩🇪 Life and service in Germany

🧱 Berlin with the wall still standing

📑 Army Reserves + Career Counselor role

🎖️ Uniform, ranks, and awards explained

💡 Advice on history and service

🔔 Stay tuned for more episodes of Living History with Alex.