Despite being a rather sexist time, WWII necessitated new roles for women. Now, previously male jobs were in many case open to women simply because there weren't enough men to do these jobs. We're all familiar with the 'Rosie the Riveter' stereotype but women also began working in munitions factories, office jobs and, in the case of the 'Fly Girls', they began flying non-combat missions. Eventually, they became known as the WASPS and their jobs involved not just ferrying but testing planes, towing targets and other non-combat roles. Not surprisingly, there was a bit of discrimination towards these women, but they loved flying and wanted to be part of the war effort.
Much of this episode of "The American Experience" consists of interviews with surviving members of the WASPS. They reminisce and discuss the history of their service--and it's all fascinating and inspiring. And, like a typical episode in this series, it's exceptionally well made and worth seeing--particularly if you want to show young girls where we've come when it comes to women's roles in the workforce as well as to show them some spunky ladies who refused to just stay home and make babies.
Much of this episode of "The American Experience" consists of interviews with surviving members of the WASPS. They reminisce and discuss the history of their service--and it's all fascinating and inspiring. And, like a typical episode in this series, it's exceptionally well made and worth seeing--particularly if you want to show young girls where we've come when it comes to women's roles in the workforce as well as to show them some spunky ladies who refused to just stay home and make babies.
