WASPS Honored

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By Katie Ussin & NBC

Story Published: Mar 10, 2010 at 7:34 PM MST

Story Updated: Mar 10, 2010 at 7:34 PM MST

BILLINGS - A special group of women who flew into history were honored Wednesday in Washington, D.C. and in a new generation continues to carry on their fighter spirit.

The Women Air Force Service Pilots, or WASPS, of World War II received Congressional Gold Medals. About 1,100 civilian female pilots were recruited by the Air Force in 1942. They performed domestic duties such as testing newly-developed aircraft, and flying military planes across the country.

Fewer than 300 WASPS are alive to receive the honor. Deanie Parrish, former WASP, spoke on their behalf. "All we ever asked for is that our overlooked history would some day no longer be a missing chapter in the history of World War II, in the history of the Air Force, in the history of aviation, and most especially in the history of America," she said.

The medal is Congress' highest expression of national appreciation. Thirty-eight wasps were killed in the line of duty from 1942-to-1944.

Women continue to dominate in the sky for the U.S. Armed Forces. Montana is home to one of only a few female fighter pilots. Captain Carol Kohtz, 34, is a F-15 pilot with the 120th Fighter Wing Montana Air National Guard stationed in Great Falls. She has seen combat in Iraq and said she cannot imagine doing any other job.

"The challenge, the reward, the sacrifice, the camaraderie, there's so much excitement and thrill," said Kohtz. "Showing up for work everyday and loving your job is such a blessing and being able to serve my country and being able to be a good role model for boys and girls is becoming more and more a part of the reward for me."

Past and present pilots protecting America and proving women can fight with the guys on the ground and in the air.

The tribute to the WASPS was held during a fitting time; March is National Women's History Month.

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