Anna Elizabeth Mundy Jackson was born on December 24, 1913, in Helena, Montana, specifically in the small community of Dry Gulch, where her father worked as a laborer. The early 20th century was a time marked by challenges and racial prejudice, and life in Dry Gulch would have been characterized by tight-knit communities and hard work in the agricultural sector. As Anna grew up, she witnessed the struggles faced by her parents, Frances Smith and Thaddeus Mundy, in providing for their family in a society marked by discrimination.

Tragedy struck the family when Anna’s mother passed away in 1924. This loss had a profound impact on Anna and her siblings, and she had to assume responsibilities beyond her years. Her mother passed away when Anna was 11 years old. She left school to take care of her younger siblings, demonstrating her strong sense of family and commitment to her loved ones.

In search of better opportunities, Anna’s family made the decision to move to Anaconda, Montana during World War I, specifically in the early 1920s. The war had ended, and Anaconda was experiencing a period of significant growth and industrial development. Known for its vast copper smelting operations, the town became a magnet for people seeking employment in the booming industry. The demand for copper, a crucial resource for the war effort, drove the expansion of Anaconda and attracted individuals from diverse backgrounds hoping for a better life.

Anaconda’s significance during World War II cannot be overstated. As the conflict intensified, the town’s copper smelting facilities played a vital role in supporting the war effort. Copper was essential for the production of ammunition, weapons, and various military equipment. Anaconda’s contribution to the war effort was crucial to the success of the Allied forces.

During these tumultuous times, Anna’s life was marked by two significant marriages. In August 1937, roughly two months after the World War II began, she married David Lewis, and their union coincided with the turbulent events. Her marriage lasted short, as by 1939, Anna was remarried to Fred Andrew Jackson. The war brought about new trials and sacrifices for Anna and Fred, as the nation mobilized its resources and manpower to support the war effort. Fred was on of the 50 million American men that were drafted in the World War II.

Throughout the war years, Anaconda undoubtedly felt the impact of the conflict. Rationing of essential goods, collecting scrap metal, and hosting fundraising events to support the troops overseas became a common part of daily life. As the news of battles and losses streamed in, Anna experienced the mix of emotions shared by millions – fear, hope, sorrow, and unwavering determination to prevail.

In the midst of the challenging wartime environment, Anna found solace and support in her membership with the Compass Club. This close-knit group of women, bonded by a common purpose, kept themselves busy with various activities, seeking to maintain a sense of normalcy and routine even during the war. The Compass Club organized parties and gatherings for their husbands and families, providing a much-needed distraction from the somber realities of the conflict.

After World War II came to an end in 1945, there was a collective sigh of relief, but it came at a high cost. The world had witnessed unimaginable horrors, and the scars of war would take decades to heal. But amid the wreckage, there was a newfound sense of unity and international cooperation as the world vowed to strive for lasting peace.

Only five years after the end of World War II, the world was once again engulfed in turmoil with the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950. This conflict brought new challenges and uncertainties to the nation and its citizens. For Anna and her community in Anaconda, the Korean War served as a stark reminder that the wounds of war could reopen so soon after the previous conflict.

During the Korean War and the subsequent Vietnam War, Anna’s life and her community in Anaconda were once again influenced by the tumultuous events unfolding on the global stage. These conflicts brought about new trials and sacrifices for Anna and her family. The nation’s sense of patriotism and dedication to supporting their soldiers remained unwavering, as they rallied behind their enlisted loved ones, including Anna’s children, John and Gerry, who bravely answered the call to serve their country.

Throughout these challenging times, Anna and her community in Anaconda continued to demonstrate their resilience and unwavering spirit. They actively engaged in efforts to support the troops, sending care packages, writing letters, and organizing events to raise morale and show their gratitude for the sacrifices made by their servicemen and women.