The establishment of the WAAC was announced in February 1917 by then-Director of Recruiting, Sir Evelyn Wood. Recruitment began soon after, and by the end of the year, the corps had recruited 57,000 women, despite initial public resistance. Women from all walks of life, from young women in their twenties to middle-aged women, were recruited. Many women joined the WAAC out of a sense of duty to their country, while others saw it as an opportunity to contribute to the war effort or gain employment during a period when jobs for women were scarce.

The WAAC was strictly organized and professional. Women who joined were given military uniforms, with the WAAC badge proudly worn on their arm. Although they were not given the same ranks as male soldiers, they were still subjected to military discipline and regulations. Training programs were set up to ensure that women were prepared for their roles, and they were stationed both in the UK and overseas, often near the frontlines where their work was vital to the war effort.

Roles and Responsibilities of WAAC Members

WAAC members took on a variety of crucial roles within the army. One of the most common positions was that of a clerical worker, where they took on administrative duties that freed up men for military operations. In addition to office work, many women in the WAAC also served in the Royal Army Medical Corps, assisting with medical supplies, field hospitals, and nursing duties, although they were not officially classified as nurses.

The WAAC also saw women working in other essential roles such as telephone operators, cooks, and even drivers. They worked as orderlies, caring for the wounded, and in transport, moving equipment and personnel. Their contributions allowed soldiers to focus on the front lines, knowing that their logistics and other operational needs were being handled by capable women.

Women also worked as telephonists and in codebreaking, helping to decode messages between military units. This was especially critical during wartime, as communication was essential for coordination and intelligence gathering. The skills these women developed helped the British Army maintain effective communication during the war. shutdown123