The Untold Heroism of the Wasp In The Ferry Command—A Fascinating Story That Will Leave You Astonished

When most people hear the term "Wasp," they likely picture the tiny buzzing insects that often make outdoor activities quite uncomfortable during the summer months. However, there is one Wasp that holds an incredible story—The Wasp of the Ferry Command. This fascinating tale of bravery, determination, and dedication in the face of adversity will leave you astonished and in awe. Join us as we dive into the untold heroism of the Wasp and its crucial role during a tumultuous time in history.

The Birth of a Wasp in the Ferry Command

In the midst of World War II, transporting aircraft across the Atlantic Ocean was an essential task. As the United States ramped up its production of warplanes, the need for a reliable system of delivery became paramount. This is where the Wasp of the Ferry Command—the Women Airforce Service Pilots—entered the scene. These pioneering female aviators took on the important duty of delivering aircraft from manufacturer to military bases.

More commonly known as WASP, these trailblazing women were the first females to fly American military aircraft on a non-combat basis. With the workforce depleted due to male pilots serving in combat roles, the WASP program aimed to fill the gaps in the Ferry Command and provide essential support to the war effort.

WASP of the Ferry Command: Women Pilots, Uncommon Deeds

by Sarah Byrn Rickman (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4045 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	463 pages

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Setting Sail: The Wasp Take Flight

So, what was it like to be a Wasp in the Ferry Command? It was a life of adventure, challenges, and breaking barriers. The women who joined the program were pioneers—brave individuals who defied societal norms and made their mark in the male-dominated aviation industry. The WASPs underwent rigorous training and were entrusted with the responsibility of safely delivering aircraft across long distances, often encountering challenging weather conditions.

These daring aviators quickly proved their abilities and earned the respect of their male counterparts. They faced mockery and skepticism initially, but soon gained recognition for their unrivaled skill, precision, and courage. There were approximately 1,100 women who trained as pilots in the WASP program, and by the end of its existence in 1944, they collectively flew over 60 million miles, providing critical assistance to the war effort.

Fulfilling a Vital Role: The Wasp Legacy

The Wasp of the Ferry Command played an instrumental role in ensuring the successful transportation of aircraft during a time of great need. Their contributions cannot be overstated. With male pilots serving overseas, these extraordinary women served as the backbone of the Ferry Command, ensuring that planes reached their destinations safely and without delay.

Among their responsibilities was delivering various types of aircraft, including pursuit planes, bombers, transports, liaison aircraft, and more. They even had the crucial task of test flying aircraft after repairs. Their dedication to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and their unwavering commitment to the war effort laid the groundwork for future generations of female aviators.

The Enduring Legacy of the Wasp

Despite their immense contributions and undeniable bravery, the WASP program was dissolved in December 1944, only to be formally recognized as veterans in the 1970s. It took several decades for the world to fully appreciate the role of these remarkable women and the significance of their achievements.

Today, the legacy of the Wasp lives on as an inspiration to countless individuals. Their stories teach us about the true meaning of bravery, resilience, and breaking down barriers. They shattered the gender norms of their time and paved the way for future generations of women in aviation.

A Final Word on the Extraordinary Wasp of the Ferry Command

The story of the Wasp of the Ferry Command is a testament to the power of determination and the indomitable human spirit. These women defied expectations, broke boundaries, and created a lasting impact on the world of aviation. Their tale of unsung heroism deserves to be known and celebrated.

So, the next time you see a wasp flying by, take a moment to appreciate the incredible story behind the Wasp of the Ferry Command. They are not just insects; they are symbols of courage, strength, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Their legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the enduring power of the human spirit.

WASP of the Ferry Command: Women Pilots, Uncommon Deeds

by Sarah Byrn Rickman (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4045 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	463 pages

FREE

WASP of the Ferry Command is the story of the women ferry pilots who flew more than nine million miles in 72 different aircraft—115,000 pilot hours—for the Ferrying Division, Air Transport Command, during World War II. In the spring of 1942, Col. William H. Tunner lacked sufficient male pilots to move vital trainer aircraft from the factory to the training fields. Nancy Love found 28 experienced women pilots who could do the job. They, along with graduates of the Army's flight training school for women--established by Jacqueline Cochran--performed this duty until fall 1943, when manufacture of trainers ceased. In December 1943 the women ferry pilots went back to school to learn to fly high-performance WWII fighters, known as pursuits. By January 1944 they began delivering high performance P-51s, 47s, and 39s. Prior to D-Day and beyond, P-51s were crucial to the air war over Germany. They had the range to escort B-17s and B-24s from England to Berlin and back on bombing raids that ultimately brought down the German Reich. Getting those pursuits to the docks in New Jersey for shipment abroad became these women's primary job. Ultimately, more than one hundred WASP pursuit pilots were engaged in this vital movement of aircraft.