Aircraftwoman Gloria Dawn Aitchison
RSL (Port Pirie Sub Branch) Inc.Gloria Dawn Aitchison of 31 Fourth Street, Port Pirie, South Australia, was born on the 29th May 1926 to Rowland Carr Aitchison and Alice May (nee Tully).
She wanted to enlist as a trainee technician, telegraphist or transport driver when she joined the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force (WAAAF) on her 18th birthday in 1944. Her record stated that she was neat and clean with an intelligent manner who should make an efficient servicewoman. Her aptitude test showed her suitable for a technical role. Her official number was 114400.
Before students could embark on their technical training, they had to complete standard initial training; an introduction to life in the forces. This consisted of drill, physical training, firearms training and a host of other disciplines.
Gloria attended initial training school in Victor Harbour, South Australia, before being posted to No.1 School of Technical Training in Ascot Vale, Victoria. She studied as a fitter and flight rigger and was classified Aircraftwoman (ACW). Flight riggers were charged with looking after air frames and related components, including the important task of fuelling the aircraft.
During World War 2, Gloria spent time in her hometown, posted to No 3. Aerial Observer School in Port Pirie.
Straight after the war, Gloria became engaged to marry Flight Sergeant Brian Crane. She left the WAAAF proud of her achievement and looking forward to resettlement in post-war Australia.
She discharged on the 21st January 1946 and attended a big welcome home function for all women who served in the various auxiliaries arranged by the Citizens Soldiers Reception Committee and the Country Women’s Association in Port Pirie. She married and settled in Rose Park, Adelaide, South Australia.
- Australian War Memorial https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/VIC0704/
