Sixty-Eight years ago nearly 2,000 women answered the call to become the Women Airforce Service Pilots (W.A.S.P.)  Bernice "Bee" Falk was one of them. An experienced aviator, Miss Falk was accepted into the W.A.S.P. in February 1944. In addition to performing all stateside duties, the W.A.S.P. tested radio controlled aircraft, were flight instructors, utility pilots, and  performed engineering test flying.

After the W.A.S.P. was disbanded in December 1944, Bee obtained her instructor's training and did freelance teaching in flying and ground school.  She eventually owned a Cessna dealership, and then joined a group of veterans who formed a flight school.

After marrying Joe Haydu in 1951, Bee reared a family who all learned to love flying.

In 1975, Bee was elected president of the W.A.S.P. organization, serving 2 terms.  During this time, she championed the effort to gain veteran status for the W.A.S.P.  From 1976-1977 she appeared on more than 14 TV and radio programs including "Good Morning America" and "To Tell The Truth".

Bee was present July 1, 2009 in the oval office witnessing President Obama sign a bill awarding the W.A.S.P. the Congressional Gold Medal. 

Come meet and hear this remarkable woman's story on Tuesday, September 13th at 7:15PM at the Old Oakhurst School Auditorium, 163 Monmouth Rd, Oakhurst. Copies of her book "Letters Home 1944-1945" will be available for sale.  Open to the public, and free of charge.  Refreshments will be served.  Please bring a non-perishable food donation for the Monmouth-Ocean County Food Bank.