Tyndall history revisited Published Dec. 14, 2009 By Mr. Ted Roberts TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- During World War II, many women enrolled in the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps to fill non-combatant positions, freeing male Army personnel for combat duty. In June 1943, the first WAACs arrived at Tyndall Field from the WAAC Training Center at Daytona Beach, Fla. Later that month, the Army Air Forces activated the 785th WAAC Post Headquarters Company and assigned it to Tyndall Field. By January 1944, the 785th had grown to six officers and 151 enrolled members. Congress dissolved the WAAC and in its place created the Women's Army Corps. Those not wishing to enlist in the new WAC were discharged, but most decided to stay on as members of the AAF WAC Detachment, Tyndall Field. As members of the U.S. Army, the WACs received training in close order drill, use of gas masks, defense against malaria, judo, wearing of the uniform, military courtesy and physical training. When their training was complete, they were assigned to various units on Tyndall Field. When the United States entered World War II, every available pilot was needed on the fighting front, causing shortages in training and ferrying operations. One solution was the Women's Air Force Service Pilots program. The program used qualified women as service pilots. The WASPs received co-pilot training at Tyndall Field before the program was disbanded in December 1944. During the four months of the program, these women flew administrative and tow-target missions at Tyndall Field.