Military History: Second World War: War Experiences:
Women
|
Over 45,000 women enlisted in the Canadian military during the Second World War, and just over 10 per cent of them served overseas. In order to be eligible for service in the Canadian Women's Army Corps (CWAC), women had to be at least 21 years of age, in good health, and of good moral character. Once accepted into the Corps, women were provided three months of basic training in camps in Quebec, Ontario, or Alberta. Initially, the Canadian Military Headquarters in London suggested that female soldiers be brought overseas to act as laundresses, but their role quickly expanded. They took on jobs as drivers, cooks, clerks, messengers, and canteen helpers. By 1944, the CWAC was assigned to clerical duties in combat zones among other things. By 1945, 3,000 women were serving in war zones. They were, however, paid only about two thirds of a man's salary. |
|
|||
|
||||
|
The Women's Division of the RCAF was created in 1941 and attracted 17,000 women by the end of the war. The Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service (or Wrens) was established a year later and drew 6,718 recruits. While eight of every nine women stayed in Canada, those who served overseas, predominantly the nursing sisters, performed their duties with tremendous distinction. By the end of the war, 46 nurses had lost their lives. In May 1942, Canadian nurses became the first in any Allied country to have officer status. |
|||
|
Women in the Canadian armed forces did not take part in combat during the Second World War. They generally worked at what were then considered typically female occupations. Despite the limitations that women encountered in the male-dominated military, they performed their responsibilities with tremendous dedication and pride, contributing vitally to the Allied victory. |
|
For assistance in exploring the If you have any comments, This website and its contents Any reproduction of any part of © 2000 The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Museum
|
