When Canada mobilized, everyone was expected to support the war effort. Close to one million men joined the Armed Forces, and those who were not in the Forces engaged in vital war work. Women also played a pivotal role in the victory over the Axis. Many served in the three Services or worked in war industries.
At home the RCAF defended our Pacific and Atlantic coasts against enemy attack, particularly from German submarines on the east coast. The Air Force also protected convoys by patrolling the North Atlantic and assisted in the ferrying of Canadian-built aircraft to destinations in Canada and Great Britain.
Despite initial Air Force resistance to the idea of women serving in the RCAF, more than 17,000 joined the Women's Division, beginning in 1941. They quickly took on many of the skilled occupations needed to support the RCAF's aircrew. These tasks included technical trades, health care and administration.
