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Off Duty, c1943. Creator: Cecil Beaton
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Off Duty, c1943. Creator: Cecil Beaton
Off Duty, c1943. The Womens Auxiliary Air Force (WaF), whose members were referred to as WaFs, was the female auxiliary of the British Royal Air Force during World War II. Its members did not serve as aircrew, but although they did not participate in active combat, they were exposed to the same dangers as any on the home front working at military installations. Among their duties were: crewing of barrage balloons, catering, meteorology, radar, aircraft maintenance, transport, communications duties including wireless telephonic and telegraphic operation. At its peak strength, in 1943, the number of WaFs (members of the force) exceeded 180, 000, with over 2, 000 women enlisting per week. From " Wings On Her Shoulders", by Katharine Bentley Beauman, Late Fight Officer W.A.A.F. [Hutchinson & Co Ltd, London, New York, Melbourne, c1943]
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Media ID 18325192
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Air Force Beaton Beauman Cecil Beaton Cecil Walter Hardy Katharine Bentley Katharine Bentley Beauman Off Duty Patriotic Patriotism Propaganda Rest And Recreation Rest And Recuperation Rest And Relaxation Royal Air Force Waaf Waafs 2nd World War R And R Second World War World War 2 World War Two
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Off Duty, c1943 - A Glimpse into the Lives of Women in the WAAF during World War II
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This photo print, taken by Cecil Beaton in 1943, offers a rare glimpse into the lives of women serving in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) during World War II. The WAAF was an essential female auxiliary branch of the British Royal Air Force that played a crucial role on the home front. In this image, we see a group of WAAFs enjoying some well-deserved rest and relaxation in a serene garden setting. Despite not being involved in active combat, these brave women faced similar dangers as their male counterparts while working at military installations. Their duties ranged from crewing barrage balloons to catering, meteorology to aircraft maintenance. At its peak strength in 1943, over 180,000 dedicated women served as members of the force. Astonishingly, more than 2,000 women enlisted per week during this time. This photograph beautifully captures their spirit of patriotism and dedication to supporting their country's war efforts. Through Katharine Bentley Beauman's book "Wings On Her Shoulders" we gain further insight into the experiences and contributions made by these remarkable women. It is through images like this one that we can appreciate their sacrifice and resilience amidst such challenging times. As we reflect on this powerful piece of history captured by Cecil Beaton's lens, let us honor all those who served diligently behind-the-scenes during World War II - both men and women alike - for their unwavering commitment to protecting our freedom.
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