Melody Hall was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Melody Hall was born in 1966 in San Francisco, California, and became involved in longshore work in 1997. Prior to her work on the waterfront, Hall was a substitute teacher. The interview details Hall’s initial experiences and challenges in the longshore industry, particularly as a woman entering a predominantly male field. Hall describes her first day on the job, surrounded by massive equipment and unfamiliar tasks such as driving tractor-trailers and working with cranes. She adapted to the work, gradually becoming more comfortable with the demands of the job. Hall emphasizes the importance of safety, recounting a severe injury she sustained when a steel rod struck her head, illustrating the dangers of the work. Hall also discusses the broader implications of her role, noting the pride she feels in contributing to America's economy, especially during times of national importance. She reflects on the gender dynamics in the industry, acknowledging that while some men opposed women’s presence on the docks, she managed to navigate these challenges by maintaining a non-confrontational approach. Additionally, Hall shares insights into her personal life, including her marriage to a fellow longshore worker and how their partnership on the job has influenced both their work and personal lives. She concludes by encouraging young women to consider careers in longshore work.