During World War II the women of the Women's Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) flew everything but combat missions, repaired planes, trained other pilots, ferried planes to their male counterparts who would fly them into battle, took great risk and even died for their country in the fight for freedom. They logged over 60 million miles in 78 different kinds of aircraft in the skies above the United States. They served without expectation of honor or recognition. They were never considered a part of the military and after the war they weren't even granted military benefits.
Thirty-eight of these 1,002 courageous women made the ultimate sacrifice and when they died, their families had to pay to have their body returned home to them. It wasn't until 1977 that the mighty WASPs were granted full veterans' status.
It's estimated that 300 WASPs are still alive and yesterday nearly two thirds of them attended a Congressional ceremony to honor their service, where they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal - the nation's highest civilian honor. These women are a part of The Greatest Generation and they paved the way for thousands of women who have gone on to do great things. It's only fitting that they receive the recognition they so richly deserve.
Hats off to the women of Congress who helped make yesterday's momentous event possible: Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas; Senator Barbara Mikulski, D-Maryland; Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, R-Florida; and Representative Susan Davis, D-California.
"Always aim high, work hard, and care deeply about what you believe in. When you stumble, keep faith. When you?re knocked down, get right back up. And NEVER listen to anyone who says you can't or shouldn't go on."
Hillary Clinton - June 7, 2008
