This story incorporates a variety of elements including patriotism, sacrifice, women’s empowerment, love of animals, and overcoming extreme adversity.

The Rincon del Diablo Chapter honored Army Veteran and author, Karolyn Smith, with the 2020-2021 Women in American History Award. This distinguished national award is presented to powerful American women who have left their mark on history through notable contributions to their community in the areas of education, religion, social, scientific or cultural innovation.

The life altering events of 9/11 inspired Karolyn to abandon her dream of Olympic competition in velodrome cycling to enlist in the U.S. Army. Her 300th combat mission in Iraq as a machine gunner changed her life. A roadside bomb sent her home, disabled with severe spinal injuries and PTSD. After undergoing ground-breaking biotech surgery, Karolyn was inspired to likewise “fix” others, starting with creating a 3-D printed prosthetic for an amputee kitten, Sophia. Today Sophia serves as the official ambassador to the San Diego Humane Society.

Karolyn Smith is the author of Sophia the Bionic Cat, a true children’s book about Sophia and Karolyn’s extraordinary journey together. A resident of San Diego, Karolyn Smith was named 2014 California Veteran of the Year for the 71st District. She is a Homeland Security Cyber Policy expert and a motivational speaker.

(Photo L to R: Chapter member, Jenn Halter; award recipient, Karolyn Smith; First Vice Regent, Cindi Maher)