Former WASP talks to squadron about faith, family, flying

  • Published
  • By Laura Mowry
  • Staff Writer
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Former Women's Airforce Service pilot Flora Belle Reece talked about faith, family and flying  for more than an hour in front of a standing-room-only crowd in Fox Hall at a 445th Flight Test Squadron Commander's Call.

Reece is an Antelope Valley resident with ties to Edwards and a unique perspective on aviation history. She effortlessly bridged the gap between then and now to highlight the similarities of attempting and accomplishing what had never been done before.

"Not only is she living history, but at the time, women in the cockpit was unique. This was a new program and what we do everyday parallels that concept of toward the unexplored," said Lt. Col. Jason Schott, commander, 445th Flight Test Squadron. He invited Reece to be the guest of honor and speak at his commander's call Dec. 16.

Flora Belle's message transcended the generations, as attendees of all ages showed up and listened to stories about growing up in Oklahoma, dreams of flying, and making those dreams come true.

"Growing up on a farm, I truly enjoyed everything outside," said Reece.

"I would sit and watch the birds fly and that's how I became interested in flying. I always knew that I wanted to fly."

As a young girl, Reece shared her ambitious dream with her father. In return, she received nothing but support.

"I remember him telling me, Flora Belle that's not something women typically do, but if you can figure it out, then all the power to you," said Reece.

Reece was a senior in high school when the war broke out. She had never traveled outside the state. One day, the opportunity of a lifetime presented itself in the form of an advertisement in Family Circle magazine recruiting WASPs. She figured out a way to make her dream come true.

"The founder of the program, Jacqueline Cochran, put an ad out and I thought to myself, "Oh, how great! Now this is exactly what I was hoping for,'" said Reece.

One physical and $35 dollars later, Flora Belle was well on her way to make her dream of flying come true. She served as a utility pilot in the Army Air Corps from Nov. 1, 1943 until Dec. 20, 1944 when the WASPs were disbanded.

"I remember the first time I flew the AT-6 solo. It was nobody but me and God's good world," said Reece.

"It was a world of freedom, as God intended. It was perfect."

Female pilots were recruited for roles to free up men for combat missions during WWII. During her tenure as a WASP, Flora Belle had the responsibility of transporting non-flying officers such as chaplains and accident response officers.

"Wherever we went, we were treated like royalty. Everybody was so kind and gracious to us," said Reece.

No matter what they were doing, or what challenges arose, the female pilots were always told to give it all they've got, she said. Breaking down barriers and excelling in a program that had never been tried before came naturally to Reece.

"I didn't really think anything of it. I've never been the type to get scared and I always knew to give everything my best effort," she said.

After the WASPs were disbanded, Reece worked briefly for Republic Aviation at Edwards as a data analyst. She married her high school sweetheart and became a teacher. She was teaching junior high school when the May 1977 issue of "Viva" magazine hit newsstands featuring an article detailing the significance of her time as a WASP.

"It was an honor serving one of the greatest countries. The freedom of flying gives us the opportunity to keep us free," said Reece.

"I feel so privileged; it was really a God-given gift that I had the chance to fly."

Reece's unique perspective on military service, breaking down barriers, and attempting what had never been done, is a familiar message to the 445th Flight Test Squadron. The similarities that transcend the generations are exactly why Lt. Col. Schott thought it was important for so many to hear her story.

"She is a trend-setter, and she brings such a positive perspective. To see her enthusiasm and how she has triumphed and overcome struggles is an invaluable lesson," said Schott.

Although the time Flora Belle spent flying in the Army Air Corps may have been brief, Reece and the women she served alongside made a lasting impression and impact on today's Air Force.

"It was bold, it was risky, and she gave it her all. Plus, you can't help but admire her successful transition to civilian life after her time as a WASP," Schott said.

"I hope that people will see her success and not be discouraged by obstacles. I hope that they will see her balance of life with faith, family, and flying. It's that balance of life and passion for excellence that I hope inspires the flyers of today and tomorrow."