Galloway, N.J. – Women played many important roles during World War II – their efforts, experiences and challenges will be the focal point of two new courses through the Stockton Institute of Lifelong Learning (SILL) in Hammonton–Kramer Hall.

Patricia Chappine, adjunct faculty member, author and historian, will be the instructor for “Women in the Armed Forces During World War II” and “Women in Aviation During World War II.”

SILL courses are free of charge for Atlantic and Ocean County residents aged 60 or older. Courses are $45 for those who do not meet the aforementioned criteria.

Women in the Armed Forces During World War II

During World War II, women joined the military in newly created branches of the Navy (WAVES), Coast Guard (SPARs), Army (WAC), and Marines. They also joined the Army and Navy as nurses, serving on the home front and in overseas theaters of war. This course will focus on the unique experiences and challenges women faced as they served.

The course will be offered from 12 to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays from Sept. 3 to 24. 

Women in Aviation During World War II

During World War II, home front shortages created a pressing need for skilled workers. Women entered the field of aviation in areas previously closed to them. They worked as aeronautical engineers, aviator’s mates, machinists, and more. Women also joined the WASP (Women Air Force Service Pilots), flying as civilian pilots working with the military. This course will focus on the essential work women did in the field of aviation during WWII.

The course will be offered from 12 to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays from Oct. 8 to 29.

About Patricia Chappine

Hammonton native Chappine, ’06 & ’09, is an adjunct professor for the History program in the School of Arts & Humanities. She is passionate about the preservation of history, as evidenced by her work with Stockton University’s Alliance Heritage Center and its digital museum of the first successful Jewish farming colony in Pittsgrove Township, which was recently recognized by the Mid-Atlantic Regional Archives Conference. 

Another passion of Chappine’s is educating others on the role that women played during World War II; she is the author of “New Jersey Women in World War II” and “New Jersey Women During World War II: On the Home Front and Abroad.”

Hammonton – Kramer Hall

Located in the historic Downtown Hammonton cultural hub, Stockton University's Kramer Hall provides students the opportunity to advance their careers through various graduate and Continuing Studies offerings.

Kramer Hall is located at 30 Front Street, Hammonton, N.J., 08037, and can be reached at (609)-626-3840.