Spark Spotlight Veteran: US Navy Veteran Corinne Britton Meade
Photo Credit: John Grover
US Navy Veteran and Fitness Instructor Corinne Britton Meade approaches life with a positive attitude and a grateful heart, spreading happiness to everyone around her. A true encourager, Corinne cares for each and every person she comes in contact with, and she provides immense value to the Asheville community. Those who attend her fitness classes at AnyTime Fitness on Patton Avenue benefit from her fun-loving personality, positive demeanor, and inclusive spirit. Having served in the Navy for 20 years and retiring with the City of Asheville, Corinne’s passion is to help others stay healthy and happy. Her philosophy, as many of her students will attest, is simple: Keep On Keeping On!
1. How long did you serve in the Navy?
I served 4 years Active Duty aboard the USS Yosemite AD-19 Destroyer Tender ship stationed in Mayport, Florida. I completed 16 years in the Naval Reserves while stationed at the Naval Reserve Center in Asheville, NC.
2. What inspired you to enlist?
I was born into a military family at a military hospital in France. My dad retired from the Army and I had other family members who were in the Army. Enlisting was a natural progression for me although the Navy was a branch of service that was not familiar to me.
3. How did you imagine military life before you joined?
Strict and structured. I knew self-discipline and tenacity would be essential in various aspects. I expected I would be there with other members going through the same experience. I would also have medical and dental insurance and access to 3 meals per day and a place to sleep! However, I did not imagine being stationed on-board a ship for my 4-year term which was an experience all in itself!
4. What was the most significant experience during your time serving in the Navy?
During my tenure, I passed many written exams and was promoted to perform my duties as a Yeoman Petty Officer First Class (YN1) in the Captain’s office aboard ship. My time in the Navy began my professional pathway to my retirement from an administrative career with the City of Asheville. Then I became a fitness instructor, an occupation that I truly love.
I was in the second group of females stationed on-board the USS Yosemite AD-19. In the early eighties, it was a really big deal for females to get aboard ships in the military. At that time, the ratio was approximately 500 males, and I was one of 120 females.
5. What occupies your time nowadays?
I maintain my portable certifications as a Group Fitness Instructor (GFI) at Anytime Fitness on Patton Ave. I enjoy spending time with my supportive loving husband Tim, my church family, and our sweet ginger cat Zippy! I dedicate daily quiet time to be thankful and grateful
6. What are you passionate about?
Wellness – Fitness – Joyfulness! I am also passionate about leading my group fitness classes, exercising, keeping a healthy diet, stewardship and organizing, and my daily walk with my Lord Jesus! Even though I stumble and am flawed, HE continues to help me, guide me, and love me!
7. What is most rewarding about what you do now?
There are countless rewards I receive from being an instructor. I am a happy person by nature, and love to see others in class smiling and enjoying themselves! Exercise is having fun and becoming healthy, and a big reward is when I get feedback that someone has received a good doctor's report! And when someone says, “I feel better” after class!
8. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy God’s beauty, bike rides, hikes, and spending time with my husband Tim whom I have been happily married to for 36 years. I also enjoy spending time with our ginger cat Zippy, my friends, and neighbors.
9. What do you recommend to women who are interested in enlisting?
Try it! You will grow and learn about yourself while taking care of yourself and having a job/career and opportunity to retire. And have FUN – you have the opportunity to travel and make friends that you may have for years to come. I’ve seen a lot, heard a lot, been exposed to a lot, and experienced a lot. It takes hard work and self-discipline. Your life is a journey filled with mountains, valleys, speed bumps, and detours. Remember it all works together for good if you allow it. Keep On Keeping On!
Anytime Fitness, 805 Patton Ave. Asheville, NC 28806
(SPIN / HIIT/ Circuits / Tabata / Cycle 360!)
Text Corinne (828) 713-6855 to try a FREE class (Why Not!)
Classes Monday – Thursday 5:30 PM
