Women have been a part of the Canadian military since 1885, initially serving as “Nursing Sisters” often nicknamed ‘Bluebirds’. Over the years, their roles expanded beyond nursing to include various non-combat and combat positions. By 1918, almost a million women were employed in munitions work.

During WWII, women joined the Canadian Military within the Army and Air Force. It wasn’t until 1942 that the Navy created the WRENS division (Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service).

Women took on roles such as clerks, mechanics, radar operators and decoders. In a significant move in 1989, Canada emerged as one of the pioneering nations for women serving in combat roles.

Kingsville sisters enlisted in Royal Canadian Air Force, Women’s Division