In the course of writing this book I have developed tremendous appreciation for all the women of the WAFS and WASP, and am grateful to them for what they did between 1942 and 1944 and for their letters, memoirs, autobiographies, oral interviews, and more. They continue to inspire.
My thanks to the Experimental Aircraft Association AirVenture and museum in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and to the staff and volunteers in Manassas, Virginia, who gave graciously of their time and expertise and even allowed me to sit in the cockpit of the B-17 Aluminum Overcast. Their enthusiasm for the WASP is wonderful. My thanks also to Carol Cain at the National WASP World War II Museum in Sweetwater, Texas.
A special thanks to Sarah Byrn Rickman, who shared her font of knowledge and her passion for educating others on the WAFS and WASP. Her attention to the smallest detail made the book better. And Liz Kossnar at Simon & Schuster guided me with great patience and acted as a cheerleader at the same time. I am indebted to Susan E. Goodman and Chris Lynch for their ongoing mentorship and guidance that goes far beyond the call of duty, and for their friendship. Finally, my love and gratitude to my husband, Paul, whose constant support is unfailing.