She, Haydu and Jean McCreery


were part of a panel for an event presented by the Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics (www.dole.org), sponsored in part by the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary in October 2010. As a group, the WASPs were


awarded the Dole Leadership Prize in recognition of their invaluable service to their country. The accompanying prize of $25,000 was given to Texas Women’s University, which is home to the WASP national archives. The money will be used to enhance the online availability of the collection so that more people can learn about these incredible women. (Go to twu.edu.)


At the October event, those


WASPs able to attend were treated to flights in replica aircraft at the Heart of America Wing of the Commemorative Air Force. They then answered questions from moderator Bill Lacey of the Dole Institute along with Katherine Landdeck of TWU, a professor of history and recognized expert on the WASPs. Landdeck is currently working on a manuscript, Against Prevailing Winds: The Women Airforce Service Pilots and American Society.


During the panel discussion, the women were asked about their reactions to the WASPs being disbanded in 1944. “We didn’t stop [flying] just because we were told we couldn’t do it,” said McCreery. Indeed, many WASPs went on to be private pilots, own planes and teach others to fly. In many ways, they broke through the proverbial glass ceiling and helped pave the way for future female military pilots. “Here we have women military pilots all over the world,” exclaimed Seymour, as she saluted to a young woman in the audience in uniform. “I think it’s just wonderful.” The young women in 1942 who


dreamed of being pilots faced plenty of opposition from family, friends and society at large. When they tried to attain veteran status years later, they faced more opposition still. And yet, they were not daunted once by the barriers they faced. “If there is something you want to do,” said Seymour, eyes gleaming as though she were not 93 but 23, “have the spirit and do it!” For another WASP story, see the July 2010 issue, Page 20. n CSD


From left: Bee Falk Haydu, Dawn Rochow Balden Seymour and Jean McCreery answer audience questions at a Dole Institute event partially co-sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Ladies Auxiliary.


JANUARY 2011 27 JANUARY 2011 17


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