55 American History Photos And The Incredible True Stories Behind Them

As World War II raged, the United States called on women to help with pilot shortages. These female pilots, called Women Airforce Service Pilots, or WASPS, flew B-26 and B-29 bombers among other military aircrafts in non-combat roles.

Here, pilots Frances Green, Margaret Kirchner, Ann Waldner and Blanche Osborn walk away from a B-17, called Pistol Packin' Mama, circa 1942.