Recruit Training Command hosted six members of the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) National Organization, Badger Unit 39, for a Pass In Review and ceremony at the USS Hopper on June 8.
    The WAVES enjoyed front row seats for the recruit graduation and accolades from Capt. Steven Bethke, commanding officer, RTC, during his audience welcome speech.
    Following the graduation, Cmdr. Kathryn Scott, executive officer, RTC, hosted a tour of the USS Hopper recruit barracks. On the quarterdeck of the ship, the WAVES presented the command with World War II WAVES uniforms, manuals and pictures for permanent display.
    The WAVES National organization is open to women of all eras of sea service. Among the guests present for the day were three World War II veterans, two of whom served in the Navy, the third served as a Semper Paratus Always Ready (SPAR) in the Coast Guard.
    The group also consisted of two more recently serving veterans including a retired master chief. Also in attendance was a recent Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps graduate from Marquette University.
    Joan Hampton emigrated from England. Immediately after becoming a US citizen she enlisted with the WAVES in October 1942, becoming one of the first three women to join the Navy. Being present among graduating sailors and future sailors that listened and watched intently in admiration, she was overwhelmed.