To become a flight nurse, one had to pass numerous tests and have knowledge on everything from plane sickness and aero-medicine, to chemical warfare and logistics. The process to become a flight nurse had many rigorous requirements and restrictions, least of which were that they could not be over 135 pounds, and had to be under 36 years of age. When the opportunity to be part of a new program that came to be known as the Winged Angels of World War II, began, she took full advantage. She worked there as a general duty nurse. When she enlisted in November of 1941, she was at Station Hospital in Selfridge Field, Michigan. When World War II broke out, she saw this as her chance to not only practice medicine, but by enlisting, to help her country in a way that was invaluable and patriotic.
It was here, in these years, that she found her true calling for medicine and helping people. From graduation, she pursued a degree in nursing from Saginaw General Hospital School of Nursing. Early Life and Military Careerīorn in Freeland, Michigan, to German immigrants, Aleda was the youngest and only child of 10 to graduate from high school. Telling her story will allow the stories of other brave, strong women throughout history to be told. By hearing her story, all can appreciate not only her life, dedication, and service, but also uncover a new aspect to World War II that most people are unaware of. Over the course of her life she challenged herself to further the war effort and in the course of her career, she became the first woman to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross award. As a flight nurse with nearly 200 missions, Aleda saw combat in Tunisia, Italy, France, and Sicily helping to evacuate over 3,500 men. She was also the first woman killed in World War II.
Lutz, nicknamed ‘Lutzy’ was the first woman to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross award in military history.
0 kommentar(er)
