Hand Painted WASP Leather Patch

The WASP patch represents a flying Fifinella. The patch portrays her with horns, a yellow flight cap, a red top, yellow slacks, long black gloves, red high-top boots, and goggles. The word “Fifinella” refers to a female gremlin from Roald Dahl’s book, “The Gremlins”. The image of the Fifinella was created by Walt Disney. During WWII, the Women Airforce Service Pilots asked to use the image a their mascot. Hand painted in the USA.

The Hand Painted WASP Leather Patch features:

• Leather patch
• WASP pilot with wings
• Size: Approx. 6″
• Colors: Blue with White, Gold, Red, and Black

 

WASP History

Jacqueline Cochran formed and headed the Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASP). Cochran, the famed aviatrix, became the first woman to break the sound barrier. Combat duties were filled by male pilots which left a vital need for service pilots during WWII. WASPs filled the need. The WASPs logged over 60 million miles and flew virtually every type of aircraft from trainers to heavy bombers. They would often fly them as skillfully or better than their male counterparts. Recognition of these pilots were not until much later in life:

• 1984 – Awarded the Victory Medal and American Theater medal
• 2009 – Recognized and awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for invaluable service in WWII

Considered trailblazers, they paved the way for future female USAF pilots. Our WASP Jackets are a tribute to these pioneering aviators.