Women Airforce Service Pilots Congressional Gold Medal
Issued in 2009
2009 Women Airforce Service Pilots Bronze Medal Reverse
2009 Women Airforce Service Pilots Bronze Medal Obverse
Coin Description
Reverse
Features the three aircraft that the WASPs flew during their training: the AT–6, the B–26, and the P–51. The WASP wings are depicted at the base of the design. A legend states one of their accomplishments: "The First Women in History to Fly American Military Aircraft."
Obverse
Portrays a WASP wearing pilot headgear. Three other pilots are also shown in period uniforms, with an airborne AT–6 in the background.
The Story
In March 2010, leading members of Congress presented the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) of World War II medal to WASP members. Their pioneering military service led to reform in the U.S. Armed Forces. The WASPs flew more than 60,000,000 miles in every type of aircraft and on every type of assignment flown by male pilots except combat missions. During that time, 38 women pilots lost their lives.
The bronze medal pictured is a duplicate of the Congressional Gold Medal.
2009 Women Airforce Service Pilots Bronze Medal Reverse
2009 Women Airforce Service Pilots Bronze Medal Obverse