Gaining Ground: Serving with the Women’s Royal Army Corps

Join Dr Tessa Dunlop and former members of the Women’s Royal Army Corps as they compare and contrast their experiences of serving in the British Army.

From its formation in 1949 until its disbandment in 1992, thousands of women served in the Women’s Royal Army Corps (WRAC), performing over 40 trades and participating in operations across the globe.

These decades were a time of immense change for women, both in wider society and in the Army. For instance, it was only in the 1980s that women in the WRAC were allowed to carry and use firearms for the first time.

To mark the 75th anniversary of the WRAC, join Dr Tessa Dunlop as she interviews four women who served with the corps at different stages of its history. Together, they will share their experiences of service and discuss how much changed during the WRAC’s short but significant lifespan. 

About the panel

Tessa Dunlop (chair)

Dr Tessa Dunlop is an acclaimed broadcaster, historian and author of 'The Century Girls', 'The Bletchley Girls' and ‘Army Girls’.

Colonel Audrey J Smith

Wendy Hooton

Pat Rosewell

Emma Storey