Nella's History: Since 2017, Nella has traveled extensively to  aviation events, telling the important story of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). This AT-6 Texan is named Nella after the iconic Disney logo “Fifinella”, the mascot of the WASP. This aircraft has attended the WASP homecoming each year, adding a piece of authentic history to the event. The WASP Squadron with its representative "SPUNKY" Education Program and Nella serve to engage and inspire women and others to follow their own goals, especially in aviation.

 Since being acquired by the CAF, Nella has given rides to seven surviving WASP along with dozens of others who wanted to experience flight in a World War II trainer, that participated in the WASP training in Sweetwater Texas from June 1943 until December 1944.

"Nella" is a proud participant of the CAF Air Power History Tour. She especially enjoys sitting beside the famous B-29 "Fifi", making a symbolic representation of "Fifinella".

2020: A year of change and "adventure"

"Nella" entered the year with "overhaul" on her agenda;

WE did it! Thanks to contributors and lenders, and supporters from all over.             

She was able to participate in the Arsenal of Democracy

 She got new "shoes" (tires); and c ompleted her break-in period on the overhauled engine 

WHAT NOW?

It's a financial challenge: Nella is healthy and all dressed up for the new season,

but the checking account is beyond empty; The CAF and Officers of the Squadron have lent money to complete all of the work in 2020. Those loans will come due in Summer 2021. And it doesn't  stop there.....

The Squadron Facebook page is reporting on Nella's activities and telling the WASP story each week; a story that has reached nearly 80,000 in the past 6 months; it too needs funding.

We are working on another video with a WASP speaking of her experience, following this year's original video of a WASP Instructor speaking about the Sweetwater experience, already seen by 38,000 people.

And underway is a virtual (online) Fundraiser that will offer gift certificates for rides, jackets, prints of Nella, patches, etc. 

The Squadron and Nella will be doing all that is possible to reach the public this coming year, pay their bills, and  expand their reach electronically. 

YOUR help is always appreciated, even if it's just spreading the word of the WASP, Nella and the CAF.

Our thanks in advance!

              Ellie Dana

      WASP Squadron Leader

     WASPSquadron@att.net

      Nella at WASP Homecoming Sweetwater TX