She was greatly influenced by her mother who, during the 1970s, was one of the few women working in a traditionally-male environment and started a union to fight hard for workers’ rights. In 1981, Winky joined the U.S. Navy and was assigned to the USS McKee, the first Navy ship built for both men and women sailors, in Point Loma. During her Navy career, Winky received a Good Conduct Medal and the Battle Efficiency “E” award. She attended and was certified in Military Justice Clerical Procedures, Career Information and Counseling, and Leadership and Management Education and Training. Winky was honorably discharged in April 1988.