The World War II Gallery begins with America joining the Allies and immediately facing a two-front war against the military powers of the Axis. Visitors learn how political and military leaders quickly understood that women could supply the additional military manpower America desperately needed. Thousands of women were already serving as Army nurses and the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) was established to increase efficiencies and free men to fight. This gallery documents how women exceeded expectations and the Corps grew exponentially in both strength and recognition. Ultimately, the auxiliary status was removed and 210,000 women in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) served at home and abroad during World War II and their contributions forever changed the Army and the nation.

Wedding Gown

Corporal Marjorie Short wore this wedding gown when she married Technical Sergeant 5th Grade Carter Ammon in the Philippines in 1945. The gown was made by local Filipino civilians from parachute silk.

Nash Canteen

This Model 1910 aluminum canteen belonged to Lieutenant Frances Nash. Nash served as a nurse in the Philippines, on both Bataan and Corregidor, before she was imprisoned by the Japanese in the Santo Tomas internment camp in Manila.

WASP Jacket

The Army’s severe shortage of pilots in 1942 prompted the organization of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). This flight jacket was worn by WASP Julia Ledbetter from 1942—1944.