Bernice Bee Haydu earned her wings in 1944 with the Women AirForce Service Pilots, or WASP, the first women to fly American military aircraft. At only 23, Haydu was taught the same formation flying and aerobatics as male pilots at that time. Upon graduation, she was stationed at Pecos Army Airfield in Pecos, Texas, flying UC-78s and AT-17s. During WWII, she and other WASP were engineering test pilots and utility pilots and consequently flew every aircraft manufactured for the war effort. Thirty-eight of her comrades lost their lives test piloting. Yet after the war, WASP were not recognized as veterans and their records were sealed. Hadyu became instrumental in bringing their legacy to light before Congress. In 1977, President Carter signed a law granting Haydu and WASP veteran status, and in 2009 all WASP were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for their dedication of service. Haydu, a pioneer herself, shared advise for others. Go after whatever it is you want, Haydu said. Though you will fall down, pick yourself up and dust yourself off; just dont give up.
Posted on: Mon, 09 Jun 2014 01:24:45 +0000
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