These women flew planes that weren’t even truly intended for bombing missions; the wood and canvas biplanes were hardly impressive specimens of aviation design. It is hard to conceive of flying something that was equipped with two bombs, machine guns and nothing separating the two person crew from the harshest of elements, no radios, and no parachutes. From 1942 to the end of the war the night witches continued their successful raids and eventually took their place in war history, flying over 1000 missions per pilot. Some did not make it, it is estimated that 31 members valiantly died however some reports indicate it is over 50. Silently, their legacy lived on and eventually medals and even Ace status was bestowed upon many of these women.

Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) in the United States also played a key role in the war, though not in direct combat their contribution was impressive. They flew many different types of aircraft; some women even qualifying to test rocket propelled and pilot jet propelled planes. They were integral part of the AirForce, ferrying planes from factory to air fields, transporting personnel and cargo amongst other duties. Jacqueline Cochran played a key role in the direction and use of women pilots in the United States Army Corps but the program which ran from 1942-1944 was shut down due to pressure from male pilots and political/public refusal to support the women’s involvement. The WASP that died in service to their country were not even given military burial. Some recognition came in 1977, 1984 and in 2009 President Barack Obama awarded the WASP the Congressional Gold Medal.

In Vancouver, British Columbia, women were working hard in shipbuilding as the Burrard Dry Dock became the hub for production of merchant vessels. Riveting crews, carpenter helpers and many other positions were made open to women. Their uniform had a similar look to the famous Rosie the Riveter poster with coveralls and bandana’s. During the Second World War 45,000 Canadian women signed up to volunteer for service in the military. The enlisted women served in the Canadian Women’s Army Corps and the Royal Canadian Naval Service; both in Canada and Britain women filled the necessary positions with the same resolve of their male counterparts.

Equally important was the role women played in an administrative, nursing and maintenance capacity. However, once the war was over most women were systematically dismissed from their positions. Accused of taking away work from men, their jobs and pay alike became a memory to share with family. For both the WASP’s and Night Witches recognition for their efforts would come many, many years after the fact. You would be hard pressed to study about their contributions in school, let alone even know one name. Medals or no medals women all over this world have worked hard for their country and some gave their life. We have just paid tribute to our Veterans and we are truly thankful for their sacrifice. It is also important to acknowledge and honour the women in service, lest we forget.