Developer Monty Hoffman joined Cindy Gueli and AOI of DC to discuss The Wharf, the redevelopment of the SW Waterfront, and its place in Washington, DC history
This 1943 cartoon celebrates the 1st Anniversary of the WWII Navy WAVES. It’s credited to “Sixta, USNR,” suggesting the artist was in the Naval Reserves and therefore likely a WAVE. As the cartoon depicts, the WAVES had “27,000 women in the service” by July 30, 1943.
“G-Girl” Wartime Romances Magazine Cover
WWII Government Girls remained a prominent part of Washington’s post-war federal work force. These “G-Girls” still garnered media attention, even appearing in this July 1952 offshoot of the popular True Romances magazine franchise, which focused more on titillating fictional confessions than a factual depiction of these professional women.
Memphis Belle’s Robert K. Morgan
Flashing back to 1999 when I met famed WWII pilot Robert K. Morgan at the Warbirds Air Show in Fredrick, MD. He piloted the first Army Air Forces heavy bomber to complete 25 combat missions over Europe and return to the US. The Memphis Belle, a B-17 Flying Fortress, was named for Morgan’s then-fiancee, Margaret Polk, from Memphis, TN.
The relationship didn’t last but the name became an inspirational symbol of American air power and the potential to defeat Nazi Germany.
After the government sent the crew on a war bond tour to boost morale and raise funds, Morgan flew a second combat tour– this time piloting a B-29 Superfortress bomber in the Pacific.
The Memphis Belle was the subject of a 1944 War Department documentary by Academy Award-winning director William Wyler (see below) and a 1990 Hollywood film.
Morgan was 80 when I met him. He graciously shared stories, patiently answered questions, and happily discussed technical aspects of the planes he flew. Two years later he released a memoir and three years after that he passed away. Seeing these old photos reminds me of the bravery that ordinary, unassuming Americans found within themselves during the crisis of war.
WWII Government Girl Frances Spollen Regan
CINDY GUELI 