Читать книгу Sand In My Shoes: Coming of Age in the Second World War: A WAAF’s Diary - Joan Rice - Страница 9

20 September 1939

I'm a member now of the WAAF but I must begin from the beginning. On Tuesday afternoon I went along to Ariel House, Strand, to see if I could be enrolled. A few of my particulars were taken and I was told to wait until the recruiting officer could see me. I sat on a bench with a lot of other women and the hours went by. After long ages she did see me, looking very snappy with red hair and the Air Force uniform which, barring the awful shoes and stockings, is quite good. She talked a lot about did I know what I was doing and service discipline, and saying they wanted people badly at Hendon with good shorthand and typing, then sent me to another woman to fill in a form. That done I was told to return for the medical exam this morning. I have passed and am now in the RAF. I begin with 2s 3d a day in contrast to those not on special duties who only get 1s 4d, and I may (I hope) have to go abroad. I am now waiting to be called up to Hendon.

I'll explain my reasons for joining. Firstly, doing one's bit. I suppose that's there, though it doesn't seem particularly in evidence at the moment. Secondly, this life will get me away from home, make me adult and independent. Thirdly, it's a change and adventure. Fourthly and at the present most strongly, I want to swank around in a uniform.

I had lunch with Mother at the Bolivar today. There were girls, smart and sophisticated, drinking with men at the bar. I felt about fifteen. I want to be able to be at any time at ease, with poise and sophistication. I hope this new life will help me. It will be experience. Sitting in Claygate isn't going to teach me about life. The WAAF should. When the war is over I want to be fully equipped to go back immediately to my goal of successful writer. If I'm alive and there's any civilisation alive, I'll do it. Meantime this diary goes with me to Hendon.