WASP Squadron

Violet Cowden was a trailblazing member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) during World War II. Cowden was a member of Class 43-W-4.

Born in Missouri in 1920, she earned her private pilot's license in 1942 and joined the WASP program in 1943. As a WASP, Cowden flew a variety of aircraft in support of the war effort, performing non-combat duties that included ferrying aircraft, testing airplanes, and other stateside flying assignments that helped free male pilots for combat service overseas.

After the WASP program was disbanded in 1944, Cowden never lost her passion for aviation. She continued flying privately and was among those who helped advocate for recognition of the WASP and their contributions to the war effort. In 1977, more than three decades after the program ended, the WASP were finally granted veteran status.

Violet Cowden passed away in 2013, but her story continues to inspire future generations of women in aviation and serves as a reminder of the important role WASP played during World War II.

Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress.

Wear the gear and help keep the story of the WASP alive ✈️ 🇺🇸

From ballcaps to coffee mugs, every piece honors the story of the Women Airforce Service Pilots and Nella the AT-6 Texan.

Grab yours at cafwaspsquadron.org/merchandise-2

📺 WATCH NOW: Evelyn Sharp: The (nearly!) Forgotten Heroine of 1940's Aviation

This is a must-watch video for anyone who loves aviation and the story of the WAFS / WASP. Evelyn Sharp was an accomplished aviatrix whose career was cut short by tragedy.

Freeing male pilots for combat, Evelyn flew nearly every airplane in the Army Air Forces inventory.

Watch her story at https://youtu.be/rEAs3XC7_zs