WASP members Frances Green, Margaret (Peg) Kirchner, Ann Waldner and Blanche Osborn leaving their plane, “Pistol Packin’ Mama”.

The Women’s Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) were a trailblazing group of women who made significant contributions to the United States’ efforts during World War II. Established in 1943, the WASP program brought together skilled female aviators who took on the critical task of flying military aircraft. These courageous women stepped into roles traditionally held by men, ferrying aircraft from factories to military bases, towing targets for live anti-aircraft artillery practice, and transporting cargo and personnel. By taking on these essential duties, the WASP freed up male pilots for combat roles, thereby playing a crucial role in the war effort. Their dedication, skill, and bravery not only helped to meet the demands of the war but also paved the way for future generations of women in aviation.

The WASP program was created in 1943 by merging two earlier programs: the Women’s Flying Training Detachment (WFTD) and the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS). The initiative was led by Jacqueline Cochran, a renowned aviator, and Nancy Harkness Love, who was instrumental in recruiting experienced female pilots.

The WAFS was established in 1942 by Nancy Harkness Love. It was composed of experienced female pilots who were tasked with ferrying aircraft from factories to military bases. The WAFS was focused on ferrying duties and was a smaller, more specialized group.

Training

The women who joined the WASP underwent rigorous training at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas. Their program was designed to mirror that of male cadets, encompassing a comprehensive curriculum. It began with basic military training, which included physical fitness, military discipline, and drills, ensuring the women were physically and mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.

The ground school curriculum was intensive and covered a wide range of subjects. The women received thorough instruction in navigation, learning to use maps, compasses, and celestial navigation techniques. They also studied meteorology, gaining an understanding of weather patterns, interpreting weather reports, and making informed decisions based on weather conditions. Additionally, they acquired knowledge of aircraft systems, engines, and maintenance procedures to handle any technical issues that might arise during flights. This rigorous training equipped the women with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties effectively and contribute significantly to the war effort.

The flight training was divided into several phases, each progressively more challenging. The primary training phase focused on basic flight maneuvers, takeoffs, landings, and emergency procedures. The women trained on simple aircraft like the PT-17 Stearman. In the advanced training phase, they learned more complex maneuvers, formation flying, and instrument flying, training on more advanced aircraft such as the AT-6 Texan. Depending on their assignments, some women received specialized training in specific aircraft types, such as bombers or fighters, learning to handle the unique characteristics and challenges of these aircraft.

Duties

Upon completing their training, the women were assigned various duties that were crucial to the war effort. One of the primary duties of the WASP was to ferry aircraft from factories to military bases across the United States. This task demanded exceptional precision and skill, as they frequently navigated long distances through diverse and challenging weather conditions. The WASP also towed targets for live anti-aircraft artillery practice, a dangerous job that required them to fly at low altitudes while being fired upon by ground-based anti-aircraft guns. Their skill and precision ensured that the gunners received realistic training without endangering the pilots. Additionally, the women transported cargo, including military supplies and equipment, as well as personnel, flying high-ranking officers and other important individuals to various locations. Some WASP members served as test pilots, flying newly repaired or modified aircraft to ensure they were airworthy, a critical role that ensured the aircraft were safe and ready for combat missions. A few experienced WASP members took on instructional roles, training new recruits and sharing their knowledge and expertise.

Challenges and Achievements

Despite their significant contributions, the WASP faced numerous challenges, including gender discrimination and lack of recognition. They were considered civilians and did not receive military benefits. However, their dedication and skill earned them respect and admiration. Over the course of the program, the WASP flew over 60 million miles in various aircraft, including bombers and fighters.

The WASP faced numerous challenges during their service. One of the most significant challenges was gender discrimination. As women in a male-dominated field, they often faced skepticism and prejudice from their male counterparts. Many people doubted their abilities and questioned whether women could handle the demands of flying military aircraft. Despite these doubts, the WASP proved their capabilities time and time again through their exceptional performance and dedication.

Another challenge was the lack of recognition and support. The WASP were considered civilians and did not receive military benefits, such as insurance, medical care, or death benefits. This lack of recognition meant that their contributions were often overlooked, and they did not receive the same level of respect and support as their male counterparts. Additionally, the WASP were not granted military status until 1977, more than three decades after the program ended. This delay in recognition further highlighted the challenges they faced in gaining acknowledgment for their service.

Despite these challenges, the WASP remained dedicated to their mission and demonstrated exceptional skill and bravery. Their contributions were invaluable to the war effort, as they flew over 60 million miles in various aircraft, including bombers and fighters. They ferried aircraft from factories to military bases, towed targets for live anti-aircraft artillery practice, transported cargo and personnel, and served as test pilots for newly repaired or modified aircraft. Their work freed up male pilots for combat roles and ensured that the military had the necessary resources to succeed in the war.

The dedication and skill of the WASP earned them respect and admiration from their peers and superiors. Their exceptional performance and unwavering commitment to their duties demonstrated that women could excel in roles traditionally reserved for men. The legacy of the WASP continues to inspire future generations of aviators.

Legacy

The WASP program was disbanded in December 1944, as the need for pilots decreased with the end of the war in sight. The women returned to civilian life, but their contributions were largely forgotten. It wasn’t until 1977 that the WASP were granted veteran status, and in 2009, they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of their service.

The legacy of the WASP extends beyond their wartime contributions. They paved the way for future generations of female aviators and demonstrated that women could excel in roles traditionally reserved for men. Their dedication, skill, and bravery deserve to be remembered and celebrated, as their legacy continues to inspire and empower women to reach new heights in all fields of endeavor. The WASP’s lasting impact on aviation history highlights their remarkable achievements and the indomitable spirit of women who dare to soar.

Resource

National WASP WWII Museum
waspmuseum.org