WASPs finally get their moment to soar

WASPs finally get their moment to soar (Added: March 10, 2010)

More than 60-years ago, a group of female flyers put their lives on the line during World War II. They were the first women to fly military planes but their story has gone unnoticed all these years. (more)

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By: CBS Newspath | WNCT
Published: March 10, 2010

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With a small smile, Deanie Parrish stepped forward to accept her place in history.

These were the WASPs... As in Women Airforce Service Pilots. More than a thousand served during World War II.. The first women in the cockpits of military aircraft.

They never saw combat, but flew just about every other kind of mission, including training exercises with the men who flew into battle. 38 were killed in crashes. The others finished their service, then lived below the radar for more than sixty years.

This was their day to shine, called to the Capitol to receive the Congressionial gold medal for their contributions to society. Contributions that continue today... As inspiration to a new generation of women.

All agree, the recognition is long overdue.... But gratefully accepted.

All these years later, just a few hundred of the original WASPs are still alive to pass on their stories. Most of them attended the ceremony in washington. For the fly girls... It was their moment to soar.