Women Proved to Be Exceptional Pilots During WWII

My father was a Glider Pilot and later served in a depot level maint. at an airfield in Georgia. He told a story about when the "Lady Pilots" came in for a overnight stay and for fuel. The Ladies he said, were all very good pilots. He had a ground guide just out of school, that when the pilot started started the plane, using a shotgun starter and the blast and plume of smoke erupted, he blasted the engine with Co2
fire extinguisher. Out came the Pilot, who was not happy. The situation calmed and the ladies left making a well taught lesson for the ground crew member. My Dad was a check pilot on several aircraft, he was impressed by the ladies. He also met some of the Tuskegee Air Men. They too were great pilots he said.

Absolute truth maam! I don't understand why the majority of people seem to think that one gender is better at somethings than another. Your statement about the gift, drive, and dream is accurate. To succeed though they needed tenacity. Most overcame huge challenges. After the service I made a career out of being a Police Officer. All of the women I served with were very good officers. In time I learned that I didn't need to be any more protective of them than a male officer. During a bar disturbance a known nasty, drunk bully easily submitted to arrest. I asked how and she said I whispered in his ear sweetly. She then said "I asked what his reputation would be after I kicked his ass". She seldom backed down, and if she did, she had a plan in mind.

SGT John Graham - Thank You.

Many flew many different aircraft as you know. Single engine observation, fighters, transports. A male pilot might be only certified for one type. These ladies often didn't know from day to day what and where they were flying. Speaking for myself, I don't care who or what gender the Pilot is. As long as they are the best.