Recorded live at the Kittitas County Historical Museum in Ellensburg, WA on June 2, 2022
Presented by Rebecca Hom (rebeccahom.com)
The WASP (Womens’ Airforce Service Pilots) were 1,100 female U.S. civilian pilots during World War II. They were selected from over 25,000 applicants from all across the United States. Those who completed the rigorous Army training at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, Texas became the first females to fly military aircraft - every plane from trainers to cargo, to pursuit to bombers - available to the military at the time. They ferried planes to bases from one corner of the US to the other; they towed aerial targets for ground artillery trainees to perfect their aim; they test piloted planes fresh off the manufacturing line and delivered red-carded, poorly repaired planes for disposal.
Cumulatively, the WASP logged over 60 million flight miles during the short two years of the program. They won regard, honor and medals. But not military status. The WASP’ proficiency, enthusiasm and spirit served the country, expanded gender norms and paved the way for future inclusion of female pilots. Their stories are a seldom told part of our history.
Rebecca Hom takes you on a journey through their stories to discover a piece of American women’s history; stories of individual WASP pilots and an historical overview of the WASP program - its creation, its conflicts and its controversial disbandment.
This program also focuses heavily on the life and service of Mary Louise Webster, a young woman from Ellensburg, WA who became the 38th WASP of 38 who gave their lives in service. Mary's death came on December 9, 1944, just 11 days before the end of the program (on December 20, 1944).
16 окт 2024
