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Repairing Barrage Balloons, c1943. Creator: Cecil Beaton
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Repairing Barrage Balloons, c1943. Creator: Cecil Beaton
Repairing Barrage Balloons, c1943. Barrage balloons were used to defend against attack by enemy aircraft. They were raised aloft on cables to create a risk of collision, making the attackers approach more difficult. 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 18324846
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Air Force Balloon Barrage Balloon Beaton Beauman Cecil Beaton Cecil Walter Hardy Katharine Bentley Katharine Bentley Beauman Patriotic Patriotism Propaganda Repairing Royal Air Force Waaf Waafs 2nd World War Second World War World War 2 World War Two
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photo print, taken by Cecil Beaton in 1943, showcases the diligent efforts of courageous women repairing barrage balloons during World War II. Barrage balloons were a crucial defense mechanism against enemy aircraft attacks, as they obstructed the approach of attackers by creating a risk of collision. The focus of this image is on the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WaF), also known as WaFs, who played an essential role in supporting the British Royal Air Force. Although these brave women did not serve as aircrew, they faced similar dangers to those on the front lines while working at military installations on the home front. Their responsibilities encompassed a wide range of tasks including crewing barrage balloons, catering services, meteorology analysis, radar operation, aircraft maintenance, transportation duties, and communication operations such as wireless telephony and telegraphy. During its peak strength in 1943, over 180,000 dedicated WaFs served their country with unwavering commitment. Astonishingly enough, more than 2,000 women enlisted per week to join this vital force. This remarkable photograph serves as a testament to the resilience and dedication exhibited by these unsung heroines who contributed immensely to Britain's defense during one of history's most challenging periods. Their tireless efforts behind-the-scenes ensured that our skies remained protected from enemy threats throughout World War II.
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