Joy Lofthouse was a pilot during World War II. In fact, she was one of only 168 brave women who were able to serve under the Air Transport Auxiliary in Britain.
Today, Joy is 92 years old. Though she didn't even know how to drive a car, she joined the ATA in 1943 and eventually became quite the pilot.
Many WWII pilots have bittersweet memories about the war; Hal Shook celebrated his 95th birthday by skydiving in remembrance of his time served in the Air Force.
She learned to drive 18 different aircrafts and loved every minute of it. Her job, along with the other women, was to transport the aircrafts between air bases and factories.
"There was a wonderful togetherness among members of the ATA," Lofthouse told the Gloucester Citizen. "We loved what we were doing and didn't think it was the least bit dangerous."
The ATA was one of the first equal opportunity employers in history. When women were first "allowed" to fly, they were paid 20% less than their male counterparts for the same work. But within a few years, thanks to persistent women leaders, they (known as the ATA-girls) were eventually granted the same pay and equal flying opportunities.
Needless to say, the experience was incredibly empowering for the women of the 1940s.
Joy certainly looks back at the time fondly so when she sees this for the first time in 70 years, it's incredibly touching!
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