Wings on Her Shoulder

This is a report on how Canadian women from all walks of life were trained to handle many kinds of work in the Canadian Women's Army Corps, the Royal Canadian Air Force, and the Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service. Basic training, everyday life in the forces, and the contribution of women to Canada's fighting strength are illustrated.

After the outbreak of World War II Canada was transformed into a fighting machine. The production of war materials multiplied; the recruiting and training of fighting men were pushed to the maximum; and twenty-four thousand miles of coast line were guarded. In addition, Canada became the foremost training ground for Allied airmen. In a spirit of democratic cooperation Canadians responded to the needs of war.

As demands on manpower grow, women are taking an increasingly important place on the various war fronts. In England, their more active jobs include ferrying planes from factory to airfield, and operating anti-aircraft guns. In Russia, they are fighting on the front lines as well as acting as parachute nurses, army doctors, and technicians. Canadian women, too, are entering new fields every day. Many have joined active service auxiliaries, and thousands labour day and night in factories turning out the tools of war.