Women Pilots of World War II

Presented by John Moseley

June 7th, 2026 at Orringer Auditorium, Craven Community College

Presentation begins at 2pm

Reservations open Monday, April 27th

During World War II, American women answered the call to serve their country in many ways. One unique military program was the Women's Airforce Service Pilots, or WASP, who were the first women trained to fly the US Armys frontline arsenal. In July 1943, the women pilots started arriving in North Carolina with the vast majority of them being attached to Camp Davis Army Airfield in Holy Ridge, NC. At Camp Davis, the WASP arrived with a challenging mission to pull targets for the Anti-Aircraft Artillery training occurring in the skies above Eastern North Carolina. These pilots were handpicked due the dangerous nature of the job and because they had what it took to deal with problems they would face on land and in the air. During their time at Camp Davis, two WASP would make the ultimate sacrifice. The program was kept quiet, and the WASP were not recognized for their military service until nearly three decades after the war ended. Learn about these amazing women and their special tie to North Carolina.

Reservations are highly recommended as this event should sell out; $10 for Historical Society members, active duty military, and students; also $10 for non-members. For groups of 13 or more, please call the office at 252-638-8558 to book with the group rate.