Enlisting In the Army

September 18, 1941

It has begun. Two months ago, the Canadian military authorities finally succumbed to the pressures of women who desire to support the war effort. Not only that, but they finally accepted the fact that in order for an Allied victory in World War 2, Canada would need more than just male soldiers. They would need eager, diligent, courageous and patriotic women to be in the Armed Forces. The Canadian Women’s Army Corps was created and word spread that recruiting would begin in September. That very night, when I heard the excellent news, I confronted my parents and told them firmly that it was my time to shine. It was my chance, as well as the rest of the Canadian women’s’ to do our duty and support the Canadian army. They respectfully and kindly accepted my decision, so I began my preparations for enlistment and training. On September 1, 1941, I was the first to line up at the local enlistment center in Alberta. I wanted to enlist as soon as possible so that I may begin my training at the Vermilion center which is not far from my home, so I will be able to see my parents and my little brother every once in a while. When I was called in to the room, I was checked by a female recruitment officer. I was instantly jealous of her and wanted to be in her shoes so badly, but instead of getting worked up, I prayed I would pass all the tests. I began to talk to the lady recruiting and she described the requirements women needed to be eligible to join the Armed Forces. My goodness, were they ever so strict. I thought that the Army would be a bit more lenient considering it is a World War we have to win. Plus the boys in Europe could use a little extra juice from our lady like encouragement. She explained that women who were enlisted must be British and aged between 18 – 45 years old. They must be single, logically, and must have completed eighth grade. They must be a minimum height of 5 feet and weigh at least 105 pounds. But most importantly, they must be tested medically and be in top shape to join the army. After 30 minutes of nerve wrecking tests, the kind lady said I checked out perfectly and I would be able to join the Army. I burst with excitement and fainted. The next thing I knew, I was under a nice blanket in a bedroom. It seemed like a senior officer’s quarters and as I started to sit up the recruitment officer who recruited me walked in. She smiled and said, “If we’re going to make the CWAC successful, we’re sure going to need a lot more enthusiastic women like you.”

-Emma Bailey