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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

Another Fighter Released for Sea Duty

Drawing of a WAVE radio operator and a gunner behind her
Description: Drawing, Charcoal on Paper; by McClelland Barclay; 1943; Framed Dimensions 16H X 13W
Accession #: 85-236-C
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Of the "Release a Man to Fight Campaign," female enlistee Josette Dermody Wingo remembers, "The sailors chant, 'Release a man for active duty. Har har. It takes five of you broads to do what two guys can do.' We have to walk right by them, looking as confident and unwinded as we can. Let me tell you, it's not easy to look dignified and ladylike under these circumstances." Her testimony echoes the ambiguous emotions that surrounded the campaign. The official acknowledgment by the government of a woman's ability to replace a man boosted the women's morale; however, it was difficult to be confronted by some sailors' disdain of the campaign.

Topic
Document Type
  • Art
Wars & Conflicts
  • World War II 1939-1945
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  • Image (gif, jpg, tiff)
Location of Archival Materials