photo #4712048

On this day in Arlington history: August 6, 1943, The Women's Army Corps (WACs) of Battery X marched in review following the induction of US Army Military District of Washington WACs at Fort Myer. Few people knew as they watched that the women of Battery X were secretly trained to crew anti-aircraft artillery in the Military District of Washington. The women were trained and ready to use 40mm and 90mm anti-aircraft guns if Germany launched an air attack on the capital city. The Women's Army Corps (WAC) was the women's branch of the United States Army. It was created as an auxiliary unit, the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) on 15 May 1942 and converted to full status as the WAC on July 1st, 1943. During World War II, the US military pushed the boundaries of what women had been allowed to do in previous conflicts. Marching on the parade grounds didn't scratch the surface of the critical roles that women--of all colors and skills—performed during World War II.