U.S.A.A.F. WASP Service Pilot, 1943-45

During World War II the Army Air Force used women pilots in non-combat missions to free male pilots for battle. These qualified civilians would ferry aircraft from factories to military bases to fill the gaps in “manpower.” Recruits had to be between the ages of 21 and 35, in sound physical condition, at least five feet and two inches tall, in possession of a pilot’s license, and have 35 hours of flight time. The ferrying of airplanes was the first duty of the WASP (they delivered over 12,000 aircraft) but they also towed targets for live anti- aircraft gun practice, simulated strafing missions, and transported cargo. Though non-combatants, their duty was not without risk – 38 WASPs lost their lives while in service to their country.