WASP History and Contributions

The Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) were a group of female aviators who played a crucial role in World War II by ferrying aircraft and freeing male pilots for combat. Despite facing challenges and discrimination, they successfully completed numerous missions. Post-war, their contributions were initially overlooked, but efforts led to their recognition and veteran status. The WASP legacy is celebrated today for their pioneering role in aviation and military history.

Who initially proposed the idea of using female pilots in non-combat roles during World War II?

• Nancy Harkness Love

• Jacqueline Cochran

• Eleanor Roosevelt

• General Henry Hap Arnold

What was the primary role of the Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS)?

• Training male pilots

• Providing medical support

• Combat missions

• Ferrying aircraft from factories to bases

What was the name of the program formed by merging WAFS and WFTD?

• Women's Flying Training Detachment (WFTD)

• Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA)

• Women's Airforce Service Pilots (WASP)

• Women's Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS)

Who was the official mascot of WASP?

• Donald Duck

• Tinker Bell

• Fifinella

• Mickey Mouse

Which aircraft was known as the 'pilot maker' during WASP training?

• B-29 Super Fortress

• North American T-6 Texan

• P-51 Mustang

• B-17 Flying Fortress

What percentage of ferrying missions were completed by WASP by the end of the war?

• 60%

• 80%

• 50%

• 70%

What was a significant challenge faced by WASP after the war?

• Inability to fly combat missions

• No recognition from the military

• Lack of flying jobs

• Insufficient training

In what year did President Jimmy Carter sign the GI Bill Improvement Act, granting WASP veteran status?

• 1984

• 1977

• 1972

• 2002

Which museum was established to honor the contributions of WASP?

• National Air and Space Museum

• Smithsonian National Museum of American History

• San Diego Air and Space Museum

• National WASP World War II Museum

Which President awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to WASP or their surviving children?

• George W. Bush

• Bill Clinton

• Barack Obama

• Ronald Reagan