|
History of Canadian Wrens Following are excerpts of articles from various publications |
|
The WRCNS (Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service), more familiarly known as the WRENS was founded in 1942, challenging the traditional all male armed forces. Between 1942 and 1946 close to 7,000 volunteers enlisted in the WRCNS and served in 39 so-called 'non-combatant' occupations on Canadian and allied naval bases at home and abroad. The WRENS trained at HMCS CONESTOGA, in Galt Ontario, and it was the only ship in the Royal Canadian Navy commanded by a women. Nearly 1000 WRENS served in Halifax, and 1000 more served in Washington DC, New York City and overseas in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland. Over 500 WRENS served in Newfoundland. In 1943 Captain F.L. Houghton was S.N.C.O. (senior Canadian Naval Officer) London, located in King's House, at Number 10 Haymarket. In preparation for Operation Neptune his staff grew to almost 700, including a hundred members of the Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service, occupying seven buildings in various parts of the city. The WRENS were accommodated in a large house on England's Lane, off Haverstock Hill, about three miles from the office. The WRCNS ceased to exist in August 1946, but in 1951 parliament authorized the formation of a WREN section in the RCN(R). In 1955 a women's component of the RCN was authorized and fully integrated into the regular force. This was a first throughout the British Commonwealth. They served in the RCN until February 1, 1968, on which date, along with the rest of the Royal Canadian Navy, they fell victim to the Canadian Forces Reorganization Act. The WREN Association will be holding a Diamond Jubilee Reunion in Edmonton AB from August 30 to September 1 at the Mayfield In Trade Centre. |
|
Wren Association of Toronto : Based at the Toronto Naval Club on Hayden St.
|
Wrens History |