Goodrum earns gold medal

The Lake Oswego Review, Mar 18, 2010 (2 Reader comments)

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Jeanette Goodrum of Lake Oswego was honored with the Congressional Gold Medal in a ceremony at the White House on March 10. Joining her on the occasion was U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden. Goodrum was one of seven Oregon women recognized for their services as Women’s Airforce Service Pilots WASP pilots during World War II. The prestigious medal has been awarded since the time of George Washington.

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Re: Goodrum earns gold medal

Ms. Goodrum and about 25 other Oregon ladies served as WASP between 1942-44. Less than 10 are alive today. Of 1,074 who graduated, 38 died while serving. They were the first female pilots to fly almost every type of military aircraft operated by the U.S. Army at that time. The WASP were trained to ferry aircraft, test planes, instruct male pilots, and tow targets for anti-aircraft artillery practice.

In a news release when he proclaimed March 10 as WASP Day in Oregon, Gov. Kulongoski said: "They flew military aircraft more than three decades before females in the United States were even allowed to attend military pilot training. They were true leaders that broke down the gender barriers of their time. Through their ability, courage and hard work, these dedicated women proved to everyone that women are outstanding pilots."

Having met 2 of these ladies and spoken with Jan and others, these women remain salts of the earth. Congratulations Jan and to your fellow WASP.