Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Uniform, Military Dress |
Catalog Number |
2023.014.01 |
Description |
Maxine Overton's Women's Army Auxiliary Corps or W.A.A.C. uniform from World War II. A) Khaki jacket for uniform with patches on right and left sleeves. On the right sleeve is the rank patch, Technician Fifth Grade. On the left sleeve is the patch for the US 6th Service Command. B) Khaki skirt with button and zipper at the waist. C) Khaki hat with W.A.A.C. insignia. |
Year Range from |
1943 |
Year Range to |
1945 |
Provenance |
This was worn by Maxine Overton of Guthrie, Oklahoma when she was stationed in La Crosse. She stayed in La Crosse and married Arthur Soell. |
Owned By |
Maxine Overton |
Event |
World War II |
Material |
Wool/Cotton |
People |
Soell, Maxine |
Subjects |
Military Clothing & Accessories |
Search Terms |
World War II WWII |
Notes |
The Women's Auxiliary Army Corps (WAAC) was a branch of the United States Army during World War II. It was established on May 14, 1942, and was open to women between the ages of 20 and 35. On July 1, 1943 the "Auxiliary" was dropped and it became the Women's Army Corps. By the end of the war, over 150,000 women had served in the WAC. WACs served in a variety of roles, including clerical, administrative, medical, and technical positions. They also served in combat zones as truck drivers, mechanics, and radio operators. WACs played a vital role in supporting the war effort, and their service helped to break down barriers for women in the military. Maxine Overton joined the WAC in 1943 in Guthrie, OK. She completed her basic training at Fort Des Moines, IA, and served as a WAC recruiter in Chicago, Milwaukee, and La Crosse. Even after she was discharged, Overton continued to work with the WAC and lead recruiting efforts in the area. While stationed in La Crosse, Overton met Arthur W. Soell. They married in August 1943. She was an avid homemaker and designed and sewed her own clothes and was an excellent cook and baker. She was an active member of Christ Episcopal Church, where she taught Sunday school and was active in the Women’s Altar Guild. |