The Women's Auxiliary Air Force, or WAAF, was formed in the United Kingdom during World War II in 1939. Its primary purpose was to free up male personnel for combat roles by allowing women to take on various support positions within the Royal Air Force. Members of the WAAF served in roles such as clerks, cooks, and radio operators, contributing significantly to the war effort. The WAAF was disbanded in 1949, following the end of the war. It played a crucial role in demonstrating the capabilities of women in military service, paving the way for future integration of women into the armed forces. The legacy of the WAAF continues to be recognized in discussions about gender equality in the military.