Learn about the Women Airforce Service Pilots who flew military aircraft during WW2 – and the medal they were awarded for their service, record, and revolutionary efforts at a ceremony in the Capitol on March 10, 2010.
Who Were the Women Airforce Service Pilots?
The Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) were a group of female civilian pilots recruited to fly military aircraft during World War II. The program was established in 1942 as a way to free up male pilots for combat duty, and over 1,000 women ultimately served in the program.
The WASPs flew a variety of aircraft, including fighter planes, trainers, and bombers, and were tasked with a range of duties, including ferrying aircraft, conducting test flights, and training male pilots.
Despite their significant contributions to the war effort, the WASPs faced discrimination and opposition from some male pilots and military leaders.
They were not granted military status until 1977, and were not eligible for military benefits until 1979. Despite these challenges, the WASPs paved the way for future generations of female military pilots and helped to change the perception of women’s roles in aviation.
The WASP Congressional Gold Medal
On March 10, 2010, the American Senate and House of Representatives recognized and awarded the WASPs a medal for their service (Public Law 111-40). This medal (Congressional Gold Medal, Women Airforce Service Pilots) is awarded to an individual or group who performs an outstanding deed or act of service to the security, prosperity, and national interest of the United States.
This is what the medal looks like:
The WASP Congressional Gold Medal Design
The medal was designed and sculpted by U.S. Mint Sculptor-Engraver Don Everhart.
The obverse of the WASP Congressional Gold Medal features the portrait of a Women Airforce Service Pilot and three female figures with uniforms walking towards an aircraft. Surrounding the design is the inscription “Women Airforce Service Pilots” and “1942-1944”.
The reverse of the medal depicts three aircraft, which symbolize the types that were flown by WASPs: Fighter planes, trainers, and bombers. The inscription on the edge reads “The first women in history to fly American military aircraft” and “Act of Congress 2009”.
Where to See The WASP Congressional Gold Medal
This object is on display in the Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Smithsonian – Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
