World War IICelia’s Scrapbook

My Enlisting

I decided to put my flight license to good use and enlist in the newly formed organization of

Women Airforce Service Pilots. It was time women like me were utilized and given a chance to fight

for our country just like any man.

Training

Before we earned our wings, we had to be trained the “military” way. We

were trained for transportation purposes only, not for combat like the male pilots. Being surrounded by so many amazing, capable women really gave me spirit.

Francine, Helen, and I

WASP Recruits

Gaining My Wings

It was a long four months of training before I got my wings. I felt so lucky in that moment

to be where I was, and I knew I was in the right place. Only a small fraction of those who

applied were actually accepted, and I was sad to say goodbye to

some lovely friends.

WASP Emblem

My portrait

Letter to Home

Dear Loved Ones, I’ve been accepted into the WASPs, and I know you would rather I stay home during a time like this, but I’m sure that this is my purpose. I’m excited to serve my country, and I know you’ll be proud of me when I come home a hero. I miss you all so much, and I know it must be hard for you too. I won’t be long though, and I promise to write often. I’ve met so many wonderful people and I’ve seen so many things. I’ve included a picture of me in uniform. Isn’t it just amazing? Talk to you soon. Sending love, Celia

First Day on the Job

My first day on the job was nerve-wracking, but also exciting. We were assigned to an aircraft

temporarily and given instructions. Seeing my sisters around me, all of us in our uniforms, was a moment

like no other.

Our uniforms.

My plane and I

The WASP badge

Aircraft Delivery Duty

The day came for my first aircraft delivery mission. I won’t lie and say

I wasn’t frightened at first. But when I got into the cockpit and took a deep breath, smelling the familiar smell of leather, I composed myself. Luckily, this mission and my many missions to come were ultimately

successful.

Remembering the Fallen

The war was finally over, and many lives were lost all around, including some of my sister WASPs. I’ll never

forget their courageous service. Although the WASPs will not get

recognition like other soldiers will, I know in my heart I am proud, and

that’s all that matters.

My medals

Sources

• https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/be/2c/38/be2c38d89ae498c571f178de3becb33e.jpg

• http://www.archives.com/genealogy/images/world_war_2_fairbanks.png

• http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d2/Jackiewasptrainees.jpg

• http://b-29.org/fly-girls/30-wishful-thinking.jpg

• http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/0/09/WASPbadge.jpg/220px-WASPbadge.jpg

• https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/be/2c/38/be2c38d89ae498c571f178de3becb33e.jpg

• https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/a5/c4/c7/a5c4c77c0b89472eec145cd7655afb88.jpg

• http://media.npr.org/assets/news/2010/03/01/pistolpacking_custom-277eaefa7afa78dd204296b050abad153816b636-s1100-c15.jpg

• http://www.waspmuseum.org/uploads/photo.jpg

• http://wingsacrossamerica.us/wasp/gallery/victory-ww2.jpg

• http://www.chandleraz.gov/Content/WWII_Williams_FamilyWAFB.jpg

• http://worldwar2headquarters.com/images/posters/British/waaf.jpg