WAYNESBORO– Megan Miller, a senior at Waynesboro Area High School, was recently awarded the Naval History Prize for the best naval project in the state of Pennsylvania for National History Day.
Miller researched and then conducted a first hand interview with Judith Bruner, the first woman to solo a naval aircraft. Her documentary on Bruner’s life became a tribute to her legacy after Bruner unexpectedly passed away in December of 2022.
“There is nothing more fulfilling than when I am able to blend educational opportunities with the unique interests and career goals of my students. Megan is an exceptional student and human being who is dedicated to honoring her grandfather and serving her country.” said Stacey Sawicki, Megan’s teacher who over saw her project.
“Megan was interested in creating a National History Day (NHD) project. She will also be pursuing a career in the navy, with the hopes of flying in fighter planes, after graduation. We blended the two interests into one by researching the first women of naval aviation. She read a wonderful book called Wings of Gold, and was introduced to the first 6 women who received flight training in the navy. ” said Sawicki.
“NHD stresses the importance of finding primary resources for their projects. Through the use of a few contacts, Megan was able to conduct two interviews with two of the women, Judith Bruner and Anna Maria Scott. Although Scott’s interview was via email, Joellen enthusiastically spent a day with Megan in Annapolis. Unfortunately, 10 days after the interview, Judith unexpectedly passed away.” said Sawicki.
Megan will be proudly pursuing a life in the military, either through the United States Naval Academy or through Naval ROTC at Penn State University.
