Women’s History Month: Esther Blake — the First Woman to Join the Air Force

Esther Blake was the first female member of the United States Air Force (USAF). Her story is one of tragedy, strength, and resolve that still inspires us today. Of course, things are much different now, but at the time, female military service was relatively new. It was especially uncommon to see women serving the way they did during WW II. Women have been important in America’s war efforts going back to the American Revolution. However, prior to World War 2 era changes, they were limited to nurse roles, or some actually disguised themselves as men to serve in battle.

During WW II, women were still not allowed to openly serve in combat, however, there was an increase in female enlistment allowing more men to the front lines. Women primarily held clerical roles, but Esther Blake surely would have taken any position to help end the war. She joined the Women’s Auxillary Army Corps (WAACs) in 1944 after her pilot son was shot down. She turned her loss into motivation to help end the war and bring the troops home.

Unfortunately, before the war ended, Esther lost another son in battle. These tragedies did not break her but rather strengthened her resolve. Once women were accepted into the Air Force in 1948, Esther was determined to be the first female member. She accomplished this goal at the age of 51 and stands as an inspiration to many. Today, women make up nearly 20 percent of the Air Force. We can only imagine where we would be had it not been for groundbreaking women like Esther Blake.

The Greatest Generation is proud to honor all those who served this country. We also work to give back to those who gave so much during WWII and Korea by supporting a bill we call The Greatest Generation Benefits Act. Learn more about this important legislation and sign our petition here.

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