Retired Colonel Margaret Draganac Finds New Ways to Serve at Windsor Run

Each March, Women's History Month shines a light on women whose courage, leadership, and service have shaped their communities. Margaret Draganac, a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, exemplifies these values, having dedicated her life to serving her country and community.

"I wanted to fly and help others," she says. "The Air Force gave me a chance to do both."

Now, as a resident at Windsor Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Matthews, N.C., she volunteers her time to support local initiatives and her new neighbors.

"Margaret's record of service and her commitment to helping others reflect the very best of what we celebrate at Windsor Run," says Michael Wehrle, the community's executive director. "Her story inspires everyone who has the privilege of knowing her."

Called to serve

Raised in a military family, Margaret credits her father, a World War II paratrooper, for inspiring her to follow a similar path.

After earning a nursing diploma from St. Mary's School of Nursing in Knoxville, Tenn., and passing the state boards, she joined the U.S. Air Force and--for three years--cared for wounded troops returning from Vietnam.

She then returned to college for a bachelor's in nursing and a master's in public health education. This led her to serve as a flight nurse in the Air Force Reserves for 22 years, caring for patients in-flight during Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom.

"You depend on each other completely," she recalls. "Every mission was about getting our patients home safely."

After retiring as a Colonel in 2007, Margaret continued serving others by joining a mobile health unit that provided on-site physicals, EKGs, and hearing tests for employees of companies nationwide.

"We'd drive the van to different companies, set up our equipment, and get everything done right there," she explains. "It was a wonderful adventure, allowing me to set foot in all 50 states."

Her last professional nursing position was as an occupational health nurse with the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C., and subsequently in the Charlotte, N.C., office for 10 years.

Supporting the community

When Margaret moved to the Charlotte area in 2006, she sought out ways to connect with other veterans. Today, she serves as vice chair of the Matthews Veterans Advisory Committee and chaplain of American Legion Post 235.

"The Post was looking for more female veterans to participate," she says. "I was glad to help bring more women into the Post and to support ceremonies honoring those who served."

Each year, Margaret helps organize events at Stumptown Park on Memorial Day and Veterans Day--traditions that deepen her ties to the Matthews area she now calls home. Her designation as Matthews' Veteran of the Year in 2024 recognizes her enduring service.

"When they told me I'd been chosen, I was surprised," she says. "It's meaningful to be recognized, but what matters most is continuing to serve alongside my fellow veterans."

A new chapter

Margaret was familiar with Windsor Run before it opened.

"I was living about a mile down the road and watched Windsor Run being built," she says. "When I took a tour, I realized the community offers more than any of the other communities I visited. I was impressed with the beautiful residences, activities for every interest, and the peace of mind that comes with the [financial] security and [included] maintenance."

Margaret chose a one-bedroom home with a den on the third floor, boasting an enviable view of the community's trees. "In my townhouse, I looked out at cars. Here, I look out at nature," she says. "The screened-in balcony is my cat Clyde's favorite spot."

Since moving in, Margaret has embraced Windsor Run's vibrant, worry-free lifestyle. She joins fitness classes, participates in a variety of activities, and attends lectures.

"The speakers they bring in are wonderful. There's always something new to learn," she says. "And my neighbors are so friendly!"

Staying engaged

Margaret's humble dedication to service continues to inspire her friends and neighbors. Her story reminds others that service takes many forms, including small acts of kindness close to home.

"Residents like Margaret illustrate what's possible when people stay active, engaged, and connected to a larger purpose," says Wehrle. "Her life story enriches our entire community."

"I'm happy to be here," she says. "Life is good when you're surrounded by friendly, welcoming people. And that's exactly what I found at Windsor Run."

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

By Kelly Shue