From Home to the Sky: Louisiana Women Aviators in WWII

Louisiana Women left the traditional roles of their time to join the fight for freedom. From home to the skies, young women became aviators and supporters of the war efforts before and during the entering of the U. S. in World War II. These brave women became members of the Civil Air Patrol and Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) where they worked on and flew small planes to bombers and trained the male pilots that went to war. The women faced many barriers including sabotage of their planes, discrimination, and the lack of being recognized for their service.

The Wedell-Williams Aviation and Cypress Sawmill Museum will host the free history talk, Louisiana Women Aviators in WWII at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 25.

Gail Garcia, presenter, is an award-winning journalist and public relations coordinator. Although retired, she remains active in the community. As a volunteer she began the history talk series at the Jeanerette Museum over ten years ago. She also served as a project director, bringing four Smithsonian exhibits to the area. Additionally, she has led many events during the past 20 years. Garcia enjoys writing, genealogy, research, and local history.

The presentation is suitable for an adult audience. For more information on this free program, please contact the Wedell-Williams Aviation and Cypress Sawmill Museum.

Photo courtesy of the National WASP Museum