WAAFS RISK, SKILL AND RESPECT

“TAKING ON ALL MANNER OF GROUND SUPPORT ROLES, INCLUDING RADAR DETECTION AND AIRCRAFT PLOTTING, THE WAAFS OFTEN PERFORMED THEIR DUTIES IN FRONT-LINE CONDITIONS”

While the pilots of RAF Fighter Command defended the skies of Britain during the summer of 1940, they were supported by dedicated ground crew who kept them in the air and provided vital assistance. Arguably the most visible element of ‘the Many’ on the ground were the personnel of the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force. Commonly known as ‘WAAFs’, these women experienced the battle first-hand and played a highly active role.

Taking on all manner of ground support roles, including radar detection and aircraft