WASPs Honored in Washington

More than sixty five years ago, a group of intrepid women answered our country's call to duty in World War II. The members of the Women Airforce Service Pilots, better know as the WASPs, served as pilots, flying military aircraft in non-combat roles, freeing male pilots for combat duty. These were the first American women to fly military aircraft, but following the war, their exploits were all but forgotten. On Wednesday, some 200 surviving members were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in a Capitol Hill ceremony.

During WWII, more than 1,000 women served as pilots, ferrying military fighters, bombers and transports from factories to military airfields, and performed other non-combat flight duties. Although 38 WASP members were killed in service, they were not considered military members, and were denied pay and benefits awarded to men. After years of struggle, they were finally awarded veterans' status in 1977. Legislation passed in July 2009 authorized the medals awarded this week, a long overdue recognition of the important work these women performed.

The American Airpower Museum at Republic Airport features a permanent exhibit honoring the WASPs. In September 2009, the museum hosted a ceremony commemorating their service.



WASP Bernice Haydu was among those who addressed the audience.


WASP Katherine Willinger signs a copy of the legislation awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to the WASPs while museum volunteer Julia Lauria-Blum looks on.

Lauria-Blum is the curator of the museum's WASP exhibit, a driving force in honoring the WASPS. She was in Washington to accept the Gold Medal on behalf of Long Island native Marjorie Gray, WASP Class 43-W-1, who passed away two years ago.

This Gold Medal finally recognizes the service these women offered to the country, as well as their role in helping to break down barriers to equality in everyday life. They trailblazing performance has led to today's Air Force, where many women proudly serve, including two who have flown with the famed Thunderbirds demonstration team.