It has to be remembered that dating back as far as 1918 (and likely even before) women were involved in supporting the various armed forces during the first World War. Bringing to the fore both technical skills in aircraft building and a plethora of other skills all essential in a combined effort to assist those on the front lines. Initially formed under the name WRAF (Women’s Royal Air Force) the WAAF (Women's Auxiliary Air Force) would eventually be established in June 1939.
They would be at the heart of the action being based at various RAF bases that were under attack during the war, especially during the time of the Battle of Britain. They encountered the devastation of bombing both on the airfields and during the blitz and aided those injured by such attacks. In fact, many would lose their lives in these frightening encounters with the enemy. Their duties and responsibilities brought them in direct contact and to the forefront of the horrors of war.
They had the bravery and conviction even whilst under attack to carry on their duties, plotting enemy aircraft and carrying out other vital duties whilst bombs reigned down overhead, they simply would not leave their posts.
The WAAF went way beyond providing food, the British staple requirement of an abundance of tea and medical assistance which of course was much needed but their vast array of skills way surpassed those essential skills. Especially on the most active bases it could be easy to forget some of the critical duties behind the scenes that both enabled an airbase to function but in turn ensured those airmen had the best chance of returning home. None could be less vital for survival than the role of the parachute packers, dinghy testers and those organising the survival rations.
They would work with the heavy and cumbersome barrage balloons protecting Cities. Furthermore, they would play their part in working within the areas involved in the most technical advanced side of war. With the advent of radar here their skills would shine through protecting many aircrews in the dangerous skies above, warning and predicting ever present dangers of approaching enemy aircraft.
They would be first hand hearing the struggles and battles of the aircrews. In some cases, hear the final words of the brave pilots as they battled helplessly to keep their shot and damaged aircraft in the air, they would plot the progress but also felt the loss, yet still they plodded on through the sorrow, pain and uncertainty. Without their careful watch on the radars and dedication to the cause undoubtedly many more souls would have been lost.
To hear some of their stories first hand, whilst being based locally, then I would recommend reading the articles below:
A Bombers Moon? The Reminiscences of a ‘Met Girl’
John Frederick Davidson Wincott
The duties of the WAAF would extend seeing some venture into both European countries and beyond. Not only in a medical capacity but also more secret duties such as the work undertaken by the Special Operations Executive (SOE)
