Westray Battle Boyce Long
Edgecombe County, Edgecombe County, North Carolina
Marker Inscription
Westray Battle Boyce Long. Director of the Women's Army Corps, 1945-1947. Legion of Merit for N. Africa service, 1943- 1944. Grave 175 yds. S.
Erected by North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
The Story
Westray Battle Boyce Long led the Women's Army Corps in the immediate aftermath of World War II, directing the branch from 1945 to 1947 as the military demobilized and reckoned with the permanent place of women in its ranks. Her Legion of Merit recognized service in the North African theater in 1943β1944, when the WAC first proved itself close to the front. This roadside marker points to her grave a short distance south.
Why it matters
Her career marks the moment American women moved from wartime auxiliaries toward a lasting, professional role in the armed forces.
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Related people
- Β· Westray Battle Boyce Long
Related events
- Β· World War II
- Β· North African Campaign
Themes & tags
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