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Queen Elizabeth meeting firewomen at Lambeth HQ, WW2
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Queen Elizabeth meeting firewomen at Lambeth HQ, WW2
Review by Queen Elizabeth and Princess Elizabeth of firewomen at the Lambeth Headquarters of the London Fire Brigade
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7643661
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library
1944 Firewoman Firewomen Headquarters Inspect Inspecting Inspection Lambeth Meeting Review Reviewing Reviews Elizabeth Firefighter Firefighters Firefighting Fireman Firemen
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative photograph taken in 1944, Queen Elizabeth, the future Queen Elizabeth II, and her mother, Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother), pay a visit to the Lambeth Headquarters of the London Fire Brigade during World War II. The royal women are seen reviewing a line of firewomen, their faces serious and focused as they inspect the women's uniforms and equipment. The scene is a testament to the crucial role that women played in the London Fire Brigade during the war, when many firemen were called to active military service. The London Fire Brigade was one of the first emergency services in the UK to employ women as firefighters, and by 1943, over 1,000 women were serving in the brigade. These women, known as "Women's Auxiliary Fire Service" (WAFS), underwent rigorous training and were deployed to fight fires, rescue people, and provide essential support to their male counterparts. The photograph captures a moment of pride and recognition for these brave women, as they stand before their Queen and her mother, who were themselves no strangers to wartime service and sacrifice. The image also underscores the vital role that women played in maintaining the fabric of society during the war, and the importance of recognizing their contributions. The photograph was taken at Lambeth Headquarters, which served as the main administrative and training center for the London Fire Brigade during the war. The building, which still stands today, is a testament to the rich history of firefighting in London and the important role that women played in its story. This photograph is a poignant reminder of a time when the whole nation came together to face the challenges of war, and when the roles and responsibilities of men and women were redefined in the face of unprecedented circumstances. It is a powerful symbol of resilience, determination, and the enduring spirit of service that has defined the London Fire Brigade for over a century.
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