Photo Information

Mabel Pruett, the first Vice President of the Women’s Army Corps Veterans association, Chapter One, the founding chapter in Chicago, talks about the history of women in the Army, while Sgt. Davis listens. (U.S. Air Force photo by SSgt. Megan Crusher)

Photo by SSgt. Megan Crusher

Women’s Army Corps veteran recalls early years of the volunteers

26 Mar 2009 | Staff Sgt. Megan Crusher

On Sunday CW2 (RET) Mabel Pruett spoke to members of the 358th Civil Affairs brigade. 

Ms. Pruett was a member of the Women's Army Corps (WAC) prior to its disbandment in 1978. 

Ms. Pruett was found and invited to speak by Sergeant Winter Davis, 358th Equal Opportunity advisor. 

"I wanted to do something different. I googled WAC and was able to contact her. She Said she would love to come and talk to the troops. 

"She briefed on the history of the WAC, how it started and disbanded and all the trials women had to get through to get us to where we are. It went really well and I think the soldiers enjoyed it," said Sgt Davis. 

"I found it really interesting, because in college I minored in women's studies and it's interesting to see how the Army has changed. Now we wear the same uniform as men. It's inspiring to see how far women have come," said Specialist Cassandra Rush, Civil Affairs Specialist. 

When women began serving during WWII, they were serving without benefits. "They had to provide their own food and clothing, they didn't get any legal protection, medical benefits, did not fall under international POW laws and when they returned to the states, they weren't eligible for retirement or disability," said Mabel Pruett. 

"Congresswoman Edith Nourse Rogers introduced a bill in 1941 to give women benefits. The bill was passed after she and Army Chief of Staff Gen. Marshall agreed they were going to have to do something because of a manpower shortage. 

"They will have a shortage if they don't take these women that are highly trained all ready and start utilizing them," said Mabel Pruett. 

They did. The women were trained in military non-combative jobs, secretarial and communication jobs. 

Mabel Pruett passionately recalled the triumphs of these women in helping the military get to where it is today. She emphasized how far reaching their sacrifices and determination really were. 

"I have seen this progression start and it has had changes for men as well. We've had to change with them, they just lead us down the road," said Master Sgt Edward McGraw, 358th Operations NCOIC. 

Private first class Daniel Vo, Admin Specialist, perhaps said it best, "I found it inspiring, because they had to come so far. Over the past century, they've made so much progress. It's inspiring for everyone because it shows that if you work hard for something you will be successful."