Take Your Own Notes features the stories of five women veterans who live in the greater Rockford, IL area. The documentary demonstrates how the five women make an impact in their families and local communities and connect with each other through their shared experiences in the United States military. Take Your Own Notes provides an outlet for women who experience challenges featured in the documentary, cultivating an open dialogue for those who wish to tell their stories.
Melody Brocato is a Marine Corps veteran who worked in airfreight operations during the Vietnam era. During her service, she met her husband, Andrew, a Marine returning from Vietnam. Throughout their marriage, Melody cared for Andrew who suffered from severe PTSD and the effects of Agent Orange. Melody is a mother of two children, a Co-Founder of the Rockford Shevets, Past Commander of Amvets Post 922, Life Member of Vietnam Veterans of America, life member of VFW, Life Member of American Legion, and Assisting Member of the Vietnam Honor Society.