The Women Airforce Service Pilots of World War II on March 10 received the Congressional Gold Medal at a gala ceremony in the US Capitol building attended by the Air Force leadership and senior members of Congress. More than 200 surviving WASPs, many wearing World War II uniforms, were there in person, along with family members and friends, to receive the award, the highest Congressional honor for civilians. The WASPs were recognized for their trailblazing contributions during World War II when they flew military aircraft in non-combat roles to free up male pilots for combat. “It’s almost unbelievable, we never thought this day would come,” Betty Wall Strohfus, a WASP from Minnesota, said at the event. She added, “We were all just so grateful to have the opportunity to fly.” (SAF/PA report by SSgt. J.G. Buzanowski) (See also Buzanowski’s report on March 9 wreath-laying ceremony.)
The Air Force could conduct an operation like Israel's successful air campaign against Iran's nuclear sites, military leadership and air defenses, but readiness issues would make it risky, airpower experts said. Limited spare parts and training, low mission capable rates and few flying hours would put a drag on USAF's…