Remembering these pioneering women as we commemorate victory

As the country celebrates the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day on May 8, 2015, Women in Aviation, International wants to bring attention to the role of the WASP during World War II. VE Day represents the end of World War II in Europe.

The WASP numbered 1,074 pilots who flew more than 60 million miles in every type of military aircraft and were stationed at 120 air bases across the country. Between September 1942 and December 1944, the WASP delivered 12,650 aircraft of 78 different types. The women were granted veteran status in 1977 and given the Congressional Gold Medal in 2009.

"We salute the WASP whose dedication and patriotism - and flying skills - contributed to victory," says WAI President Dr. Peggy Chabrian. "These pioneering women were inspirational then and continue to be today. The WASP opened the first door for current female military pilots and today these living legends serve as role models for all of our members."

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Women in Aviation, International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to providing networking, mentoring and scholarship opportunities for women and men who are striving for challenging and fulfilling careers in the aviation and aerospace industries. For more information, contact WAI at 3647 State Route 503 South, West Alexandria, OH 45381, Phone (937) 839-4647; Fax (937) 839-4645 or through www.wai.org.

Note to Editors: The 27th Annual International Women in Aviation Conference will be held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, Tennessee from March 10-12, 2016. For more information, visit www.wai.org.

Contact:

Molly Martin, Outreach Director
Women in Aviation International
850-508-8769 Phone
mmartin@wai.org