The Women Behind The Few

The Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain and beyond, assisting RAF operations with radar and discovering German V-weapons. This book celebrates their wartime contribution to British military intelligence, highlighting their vital role in the success of the RAF.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 13 February 2024
Publisher: Biteback Publishing

The courageous pilots of the Royal Air Force who faced the Luftwaffe in the Battle of Britain, affectionately known as the Few, are rightly hailed as heroes. Recently, efforts have been made to recognize the thousands who supported RAF operations behind the scenes. And yet one group remains missing from the narrative: the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF). WAAFs worked within the Dowding System, the world's most sophisticated air defense network. Throughout the Blitz, they used radar to aid Fighter and Bomber Commands in protecting Britain's civilians. WAAFs were also behind the discovery of the terrifying German V-weapons. Their work was critical ahead of the Normandy landings and they were present in their hundreds at Bletchley Park. In this thrilling book, Sarah-Louise Miller celebrates their wartime contribution to British military intelligence. Hidden behind the Few but vital to their success, WAAFs supplied the RAF with life-saving information. Here, for the first time, is their story.

The Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) played a significant role in the Battle of Britain, often referred to as the Few. These brave women served alongside their male counterparts in the Royal Air Force (RAF) during the intense aerial conflict of 1940. Despite their contributions being overlooked in the historical narrative, it is essential to acknowledge their vital role in the war effort.

WAAFs worked within the Dowding System, the world's most sophisticated air defense network. Their primary responsibility was to operate radar stations, which provided crucial information to Fighter and Bomber Commands in the battle against the Luftwaffe. By using radar, WAAFs were able to detect incoming enemy aircraft and alert the RAF, allowing them to take evasive action and protect British civilians.

During the Blitz, WAAFs operated radar stations around the country, including at RAF stations in Kent, Sussex, and Scotland. They worked tirelessly, often under extreme conditions, to ensure that the RAF had the necessary information to defend Britain. Their dedication and hard work were instrumental in the successful defense of the country.

In addition to their radar operations, WAAFs were also involved in other important tasks. They operated airfields, repaired aircraft, and transported supplies and personnel. Their contributions were vital to the RAF's ability to maintain operations and carry out its missions.

One of the most significant achievements of WAAFs during the Battle of Britain was their role in the discovery of the German V-weapons. WAAFs were responsible for monitoring the skies for signs of German aircraft and reporting any sightings to the RAF. Their tireless efforts led to the discovery of the V-1 and V-2 rockets, which were a major threat to British cities. The information provided by WAAFs was critical in the development of countermeasures against these weapons.

Despite their contributions to the war effort, WAAFs faced discrimination and challenges during their service. They were paid less than their male counterparts and were often relegated to lower-ranking positions. However, they remained committed to their work and continued to serve with distinction.

After the Battle of Britain, WAAFs continued to play an important role in the war. They were involved in the Battle of the Atlantic, where they operated anti-submarine patrols and transported supplies to Allied forces. They also played a role in the liberation of Europe, working alongside the RAF and other military units.

In conclusion, the Women's Auxiliary Air Force played a critical role in the Battle of Britain and the war effort as a whole. Their contributions to the RAF were invaluable, and their bravery and dedication should be recognized and celebrated. It is important to remember the sacrifices made by all those who served during World War II and to honor their memory by preserving their stories and contributions.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785908705