A Look at the WASP Exhibit in the NEW WWII Gallery at National Museum of the US Air Force

The National Museum of the US Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, offers a glimpse into a unique chapter of American aviation history. This museum is known as the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. Today, we look at a special exhibit dedicated to the Women Air Service Pilots, or WASP. The exhibit is housed in Building 1 in the World War II Gallery. It focuses on the role of these women who flew military aircraft during the war. Their service was a vital part of the US war effort, and they faced many challenges along the way. The exhibit shows uniforms, flight kits, and training equipment that tell their story.

The WASP were civilian volunteers who flew military planes from 1942 to 1944. This group was the first to include American women as pilots of military aircraft. Their work came decades before they were officially recognized as military members or treated as veterans. The exhibit explains that over 25,000 women applied for the WASP training program. Out of these, 1,830 were admitted to the program. Only 1,174 completed the training and went on to fly aircraft. They logged more than 12,000 flights, transferring supplies to over 60 million miles between factories and bases across the United States.

The WASP and Their Training

The exhibit explains how the WASP were put into a training program at a base in Ohio. This training was designed to teach them how to fly different types of military aircraft in all kinds of weather. The training focused on flying, navigation, and even radar tracking. The WASP also learned how to tow targets for live ammunition practice and operate drones for testing purposes. They received the same kind of training as other pilots of the time, with an emphasis on safety and skill. Their uniforms, which are on display, show the practical design of the gear they wore. The uniform was meant to be comfortable and durable for long hours in the cockpit.

After initial training in Ohio, the program moved to Texas in August 1943. At this new location, the WASP training program continued, and more women learned to fly. The exhibit shows photographs of young women in uniform, highlighting their determination and hard work. The display also includes items from an organization that later merged with the WASP. This merge brought together women who were dedicated to flying and to serving their country, even though they were not treated as equal by many in the military at that time.

Facing Challenges and Gaining Recognition

The exhibit does not shy away from the difficulties the WASP faced. Many of these women encountered hostility and unfair treatment from male pilots and commanding officers. Despite their skills and the important work they performed, the WASP were not given the military roles they deserved. By June 1944, with the war turning in favor of the Allies, a bill was presented to Congress that led to the disbandment of the WASP. General Arnold, who was an advocate for these female pilots, announced that the WASP would be dissolved by the end of the year. In a letter, a general expressed regret while praising their service, noting that their work was effective and their conduct exemplary.

Even after the war, the WASP fought for their recognition as veterans. Decades later, they defended their service before Congress. Their efforts eventually led to formal recognition as World War II pilots. In 1977, legislation was passed to grant them active duty status retroactively. This allowed them to receive benefits from the Department of Veteran Affairs. The exhibit displays the Congressional Gold Medal awarded to the WASP, which serves as an important marker of their contributions to American aviation and the war effort.

The exhibit at the National Museum of the US Air Force brings together a rich collection of uniforms, photographs, and personal items. These artifacts help visitors understand the important role the WASP played during World War II. Their story is now recognized as a vital part of both aviation history and American history, preserved for future generations to learn from and appreciate.