Have you ever heard of Hazel Ying Lee? She, and thousands of over women, were ‘Women Airforce Service Pilots’ (WASPs) that flew planes during the second World War! While these women were not allowed to fly during combat/battles, their job was also very dangerous; these women ‘test-flew’ planes that had just been built to check for any malfunctions!
Hazel Ying Lee not only faced discrimination as a female pilot, but also as a Chinese American. But she never gave up and was determined to be a pilot. She was even one of the few women to fly a fighter jet! After her tragic passing, she was not given any military recognition. Like many WASPs, her role in history has been erased or forgotten. We think it is important to acknowledge these ‘hidden heroes’ throughout history, especially during Women’s History Month!
