Grizilda Bovaird
Navy Officer
The Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service (WRCNS) was the last branch of the Canadian Armed forces created for women. Established in July 1942, the WRCNS joined the Canadian Women’s Army Corps and the Royal Canadian Air Force Women’s Division as options for women who wanted to enlist.
Over 6700 women, known by their nickname, the “Wrens”, served in non-combat roles in the WRCNS. They ran signal towers, staffed wireless and long-range communication stations, and performed a wide variety of administrative tasks.
This responsibility, leadership, and respect entrusted to the Wrens had a significant impact on the rest of their lives. Not only did they pave the way for future generations of women in the Navy, but they also set a new precedent for women in society.