The Women’s Army Corps (WAC) was the official women’s branch of the United States Army, established during World War II to free up men for combat roles by taking over essential non-combat jobs. [1, 2, 3, 4]

History and Origins

• Started as the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) on May 15, 1942.
• Converted to active-duty status as the WAC on July 1, 1943, giving women full military rank and benefits.
• Led by its first director, Colonel Oveta Culp Hobby.
• Disbanded on October 20, 1978, when female units were fully integrated into regular male units. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Jobs and RolesPerformed hundreds of vital support duties, including working as switchboard operators, mechanics, bakers, drivers, and postal workers.Served in sensitive roles such as cryptologists, parachute riggers, and technical specialists on the Manhattan Project.Deployed globally across every major theater of World War II operations. [1, 2, 3]If you would like to know more, let me know if you are interested in:Famous members or leaders of the WACTraining facilities like Fort Des MoinesPost-WWII integration and history