Second World War
The Navy Ashore  - Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service

The Second World War saw close to 7,000 women in naval service. Founded in 1942, the Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service (WRCNS), often called the "Wrens", performed a wide variety non-combatant roles ashore, both in Canada and abroad.

WRCNS Summer and Winter Uniforms

This photograph shows members of the Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service (WRCNS) in summer (light) and winter (dark) uniforms.

The creation of a women's branch in a previously all-male navy brought with it a number of changes, including a need for women's uniforms. Dark blue winter uniforms (left and centre) contrast with lighter blue summer uniforms (right and second from left). Summer uniforms for ratings (right) subsequently changed from a one-piece dress to a skirt and jacket. Ratings' hats (right and centre) were replaced by a naval style cap, often called a beret, and were later joined by a tricorne hat like that worn by WRCNS officers.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 19790488-005_15