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World War II
Clothing and Accessories
Women's Clothing
Uniforms ➔ Military Uniform
Identifier:
121126Description:
This five-piece uniform is from the Women's Army Auxillary Corps of the United States Army. It was worn during World War II.Ths uniform is comprised of five pieces that include an olive wool jacket, an olive wool skirt, an olive wool belt, a tan cotton blouse, and a wool hat number 121126.1.
Date:
1942Materials:
Wool, CottonCurrent Location Status:
In StorageCollection Tier:
Tier 2Source:
Gift Of Imogene BerningRelated Entities:
Imogene Berning (donor) Women's Army Corps (is related to)Alternate names: WAAC, WAC, Women's Army Auxiliary Corps
The Women's Army Corps, also known as WAC, was created by the United States Congress in May of 1942 as the Women's Army Auxillary Corps (WAAC). It allowed women to serve during World War II with the rights and benefits afforded to soldiers. Most of the jobs open to women were in the fields of baking, clerical, driving, and medical. By 1943, over 400 jobs were open to women. Because the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps was not an integral part of the United States Army, women overseas did not receive the same benefits and pay as men and quickly recruitment numbers fell. A bill was introduced in 1943 that was passed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt which changed the name of the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps to the Women's Army Corps (WAC). With this law, the Women's Army Corps became part of the United States Army and women received ranks, privileges, and benefits equal to male soldiers. In 1978 the Women's Army Corps was disbanded and all female units were integrated into the male units of the United States Army.
