The 3 Extraordinary Women of the WWII Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF)

During the Second World War, many women in Britain stepped into roles that had once been closed to them. The Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) became a key part of the Royal Air Force’s support system. Among the thousands who served, three stood out for their bravery during the Battle of Britain—Sergeant Joan Mortimer, Flight Officer Elspeth Henderson, and Sergeant Helen Turner.

These women showed calm under pressure during repeated bombing attacks. Their work helped keep RAF Biggin Hill, a vital fighter station in southeast England, functioning even while under fire. For their efforts, they were awarded the Military Medal, a rare honor for women at the time.

1. Sergeant Joan Mortimer

Joan Mortimer served in the WAAF as a plotter and worked near the station’s armory. When Biggin Hill was attacked on August 30, 1940, she stayed at her post, helping keep the switchboard operating. The airfield was a major target, and bombs were falling all around, yet Mortimer stayed focused.

After the bombing raid, she took it upon herself to mark the locations of unexploded bombs by placing red flags near them. She did this to prevent further harm to returning aircraft and ground crews. Her actions showed care for others and a willingness to face danger without hesitation.

2. Flight Officer Elspeth Henderson

Elspeth Henderson was working as a corporal at the time of the Biggin Hill attacks. She was stationed in the operations room when the building was hit directly by bombs. Instead of fleeing, she remained in place and continued her duties, keeping communication going between Biggin Hill and Fighter Command headquarters.

Even as the structure was damaged and the danger increased, Henderson stayed until the situation became too dangerous. Her steady effort during the air raid helped prevent communication breakdowns that could have affected RAF operations in the middle of the air war.

3. Sergeant Helen Turner

Helen Turner worked as a switchboard operator and was responsible for maintaining lines of communication on the base. During the raids on August 30 and 31, she refused to leave her position, even as bombs fell around her and fire threatened the building.

She stayed on duty until flames made it impossible to continue. Her quick thinking and calm response helped ensure that vital calls went through during one of the most dangerous moments for Biggin Hill. Her work kept ground crews, pilots, and other key personnel connected when it mattered most.

Their Recognition

In November 1940, all three women were awarded the Military Medal. Only six women in the entire WAAF received this award during the war. While some—including Henderson—felt unsure about receiving a decoration typically awarded to men, the honor brought attention to the important work being done by women behind the scenes.

Their medals were not only awards for individual bravery but also helped challenge how women’s roles were seen during wartime. Their actions helped prove that women could handle difficult and dangerous jobs just as well as their male counterparts.

Their Legacy

After the war, Elspeth Henderson—later known as Elspeth Green—continued to stay active in public service. She worked with the British Council and supported cultural projects like the Edinburgh International Festival. She lived until 2006 and remained active in her community throughout her life.

The actions of Mortimer, Henderson, and Turner continue to be remembered today as examples of quiet strength during a time of crisis. They showed how women in the WAAF played an essential part in Britain’s defense—not only by doing their jobs but by standing firm in the face of real danger.