A Place in the Sky

At the height of World War II, the US Army is frantic to find trained pilots to test refurbished planes, tow anti-aircraft targets, ferry planes from factories, and train other pilots. Congress begrudgingly allows the creation of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) where 1,074 women are trained at Avenger Field, Texas and go on to fill roles normally reserved for male pilots.“Now, you, Laura, you’re like a firework. You climb in those planes, rocket right up there, and BOOM! Brilliance. Hell, you’re even happy when you get your butt shot off.”A PLACE IN THE SKY tells the story of the little-known WASP program. During its short-lived existence, WASP flew 60 million miles in every known U.S. military aircraft. Thirty-eight pilots died while serving as WASP. And even though WASP weren’t granted full military status for their service until 1977 (thirty-four years after the last WASP class graduated), their courage and contribution to America’s greatness remain an inspiration.