Born in Los Angeles, Guhse was inspired by early flight pioneers like Amelia Earhart and the planes she saw flying overhead at nearby Mines Field (now Los Angeles International).

She learned to fly while working at North American Aviation, and with the outbreak of World War II she joined the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP.) Ruth was in the last WASP class at Avenger Field in Sweetwater, TX and went on to serve at Aloe Army Air Field in Victoria, TX for tow-target duty. This harrowing job involved towing a target behind her aircraft while inexperienced pilots and gunners swooped around her and shot at the target attached to her plane. She was training male pilots who were to be sent overseas when she found out that the WASP had been deactivated in December of 1944.

She later said, “I have always felt that the WASP experience was the greatest achievement in my life and everything thereafter was anti-climactic! I still look to the sky at any sound of aircraft and remember the good old days." After the war she worked for Pan American Airlines and settled down to raise a family.


This is a photo of Ruth Glaser Wright Guhse WASP headstone.

Alexandria National Cemetery

National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico

ruth glaser wright guhse's Profile Picture

Ruth was part of the greatest generation. Heroine of the skies history maker.  Crisp salute to this vet who made it past 90 years old.  I hope everyone who visits appreciates those who served to keep our liberties and freedoms. Thank you Ruth, and thanks to our veterans.

Her call to action and service is truly an inspiration. What an incredible story and bravery she showed. 

On this day of service 9/11/2023, we remember your service and thank you as a nation!

Hi Ruth,

Visited your gravesite today.  Thank you for your service to the country.  You will always be remembered.  

appreciate the work these women did -- extraordinary risks with little recognition -- i enjoy learning more about their contributions.

Hello Ruth,   

Remembering your service in the WASP this Memorial Day.   Thank you.  You will never be forgotten.

RUTH GLASER WRIGHT GUHSE

Service

Resting Place

Mementos

Tributes

Word Cloud

undefined

Milestones

Mementos

Historical Documents

Veteran programs and services

More VA resources

Get VA updates

In crisis? Get help now

Contact us