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Code and Cypher Officer, c1943. Creator: Cecil Beaton
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Code and Cypher Officer, c1943. Creator: Cecil Beaton
Code and Cypher Officer, c1943. The Womens Auxiliary Air Force (WaF), whose members were referred to as WaFs, was the female auxiliary of the British Royal Air Force during World War II. Its members did not serve as aircrew, but although they did not participate in active combat, they were exposed to the same dangers as any on the home front working at military installations. Among their duties were: crewing of barrage balloons, catering, meteorology, radar, aircraft maintenance, transport, communications duties including wireless telephonic and telegraphic operation. At its peak strength, in 1943, the number of WaFs (members of the force) exceeded 180, 000, with over 2, 000 women enlisting per week. From " Wings On Her Shoulders", by Katharine Bentley Beauman, Late Fight Officer W.A.A.F. [Hutchinson & Co Ltd, London, New York, Melbourne, c1943]
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Media ID 18324860
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Air Force Beaton Beauman Cecil Beaton Cecil Walter Hardy Code Code Breaking Information Katharine Bentley Katharine Bentley Beauman Machine Machinery Military Intelligence Patriotic Patriotism Propaganda Royal Air Force Typewriter Typewriting Typing Waaf Waafs 2nd World War Cypher Second World War Ticker Tape World War 2 World War Two
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photo print, taken by Cecil Beaton in 1943, showcases a Code and Cypher Officer from the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WaF) during World War II. The WaFs played an essential role in supporting the British Royal Air Force on the home front. Although they did not serve as aircrew, their contributions were invaluable. In this image, we see a determined and patriotic lady working diligently amidst a backdrop of typewriters, ticker tape machines, and code-breaking equipment. Her presence exudes strength and resilience as she carries out her duties with utmost precision. Behind her lies a world of military intelligence and communication that was crucial to the war effort. The Women's Auxiliary Air Force members faced similar dangers as those serving on active duty at military installations but without participating in combat directly. Their responsibilities included crewing barrage balloons, meteorology, radar operation, aircraft maintenance, transport logistics, wireless telephonic operations - all vital aspects for ensuring effective air defense. At its peak strength in 1943, over 180,000 women served as WaFs with more than 2,000 enlisting per week. This photograph serves as a powerful reminder of their dedication and commitment to their country during one of history's most challenging times. Cecil Beaton masterfully captures both the individuality and collective spirit of these remarkable women who played an integral role in Britain's war efforts. It stands as a testament to their unwavering patriotism and contribution to victory during World War II.
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