In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with author Becky Aikman about her book ‘Spitfires,’ which uncovers the remarkable stories of American women pilots during World War II. These women, known as the ‘Atta Girls,’ defied societal expectations and took to the skies to ferry military aircraft for the British during a time when their contributions were largely forgotten. Aikman shares insights into the lives of these pioneering aviators, the challenges they faced, and the impact they had on aviation and women’s roles in wartime. This conversation explores the remarkable stories of American women pilots during World War II, focusing on their bravery, social lives, and the challenges they faced both in the air and on the ground. The discussion highlights their daring incidents, coping mechanisms for psychological tolls, and the significant social changes they experienced. It also delves into class differences, cultural clashes, and the impact of their contributions on women’s rights and aviation history. The legacy of these women is celebrated, emphasizing their determination and the recognition they deserve.

Links

• Spitfires: The American Women Who Flew in the Face of Danger During World War II – Amazon Link
• Spitfires – Bookshop.org link
• Becky Aikman Official Website

Takeaways

• The book highlights the bravery and ambition of American women pilots during WWII.
• Becky Aikman was inspired by her mother’s recollection of these women.
• Hazel Jane Rains is a central figure in the narrative of the Etta Girls.
• The women faced significant dangers, including mechanical failures and unpredictable weather.
• Despite their contributions, these women were largely forgotten after the war.
• The British military was more accepting of women pilots compared to the American military.
• The women enjoyed a sense of freedom and control while serving in the war.
• Aikman meticulously researched crash scenes using multiple sources.
• The spirit of competition and ambition drove these women to excel in aviation.
• The story of these women is a testament to breaking barriers in aviation. They lived life to the fullest despite the dangers.
• Winnie Pierce was known for her wild flying style.
• Pilots had to make split-second decisions in crises.
• Compartmentalization was key to coping with trauma.
• The war provided a sense of freedom for women.
• Class differences created initial cultural clashes.
• Social lives were intertwined with their careers.
• Women in aviation paved the way for future generations.
• Recognition of their contributions is long overdue.
• Flying represented freedom and joy for these women.

Sound Bites

• “These daring aviators defied expectations.”
• “You could not make this up.”
• “The British treated them equally.”
• “They were living life to the fullest.”
• “They compartmentalized their trauma.”
• “It was very freeing for them.”
• “It was all about who you know.”
• “Women have done this or that.”
• “They just did it.”
• “They loved that freedom.”

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Unsung Heroes of WWII
• 03:45 Discovering Hazel Jane Rains and the Etta Girls
• 07:26 Surprising Contributions and Challenges Faced
• 11:36 The Impact of War on Women’s Lives
• 13:50 Reconstructing Dramatic Crash Scenes
• 19:29 The Dangers Beyond Enemy Fire
• 23:15 The Spirit of the Women Pilots
• 24:32 Dorothy Fury: A Life of Reinvention
• 27:12 Comparing British and American Attitudes
• 29:10 Navigating Traditional Expectations in Wartime Britain
• 30:08 Living Life to the Fullest
• 31:07 Daring Incidents in the Skies
• 34:21 Coping with Psychological Toll
• 36:23 Social Changes and Personal Lives
• 39:17 Class Differences and Cultural Clashes
• 41:37 The Spirit of the Era
• 43:37 Impact on Women’s Rights
• 45:44 Post-War Challenges and Triumphs
• 48:08 Legacy and Recognition
• 49:50 Favorite Warbirds and Personal Connections

Video Version