The Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps in France 1917-1921

by Samantha Philo- Gill Pen & Sword, 2017

Women’s support for the war effort in the First World War gained them the vote and a greater appreciation of their abilities in many fields. Volunteer nurses, assistants and drivers were involved from the beginning. Most were middle or upper-class. Manpower shortages in 1916 promoted moves to bring many more women into direct roles supporting the army. A civilian organisation, The Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps, controlled by the army but run by professional women, was proposed.

The army was predominately in favour. Field Marshal Haig was largely positive; the Adjutant General said he preferred working with pro-suffrage, professional women to upper-class amateurs.

Women of all classes were encouraged to volunteer, the first going to France in spring 1917. Over 41,000 were serving there and at home by Armistice. Many served until the Corps was disbanded in 1920.

Skilfully blending official documents, newspaper reports, private letters and memoirs, this excellent history covers all aspects of the WAAC from pay, to work, social life and living conditions, in the women’s own words wherever possible. Phil Tomaselli is a military family history expert