When we think of wartime heroes, names like Clara Barton—the legendary “Angel of the Battlefield”—come to mind. But history holds countless other unsung heroines who played crucial roles in times of war. Among them were the thousands of American Red Cross servicewomen who crossed the Atlantic during World War II to support U.S. troops stationed in the U.K.
Unlike battlefield nurses, these women ran service clubs, offering weary soldiers a warm meal, a friendly smile, and a taste of home in the midst of war. They lifted morale not just for American troops but also for local British communities who found comfort in their kindness. Yet, despite their impact, their stories have largely been forgotten—until now.
A new initiative by the American Air Museum in Britain aims to change that. Historian Hattie Hearn, speaking with the BBC, emphasized the importance of preserving these women’s legacies: “Their stories have largely been forgotten, so the aim is to bring them to life, to learn more about these women and the impact they had.”
Since the research project began in January, hundreds of names have resurfaced, each attached to a remarkable story. One such story is that of Hazel Dixon Payne, an early recruit to the American Red Cross and the first Black volunteer to die in overseas service. Her passing was met with profound grief, and she was honored with a full military burial in England—yet her name has faded from common memory.
The museum is now calling on families to help piece together the history of these women. If you have photographs, letters, or memorabilia from relatives who served, you can contribute to the archive and ensure that their service is never lost to time.
As we remember famous figures of the past, let’s also take a moment to honor the everyday heroes—those who gave their time, energy, and in some cases, their lives, to support soldiers in need.
For more details on this incredible project, visit the American Air Museum’s website:
