Cerro Gordo County

Sgt. Viola M. Grell

 

AT PHOTO LAB SCHOOL -- Auxiliary Viola M. Grell of Ventura, a member of the WAACs, is studying the photo technician course at Lowry Field, Denver, Colo., in preparation for a non-combat job at an army post, camp or station. She received her basic training at the first WAAC training center, Fort Des Moines.

Source: Globe-Gazette, Mason City IA - June 4, 1943 (photo included)

70 Pct. Of Iowa WACs From Fighting Families
A survey of approximately 70 per cent of the total Iowa WAC enlistment reveals its close integration with the war effort through service of members overseas and in this county, and through other members of their families.

[Excerpt]

Sgt. Viola M. Grell, daughter of John E. Grell, of Ventura, is on duty with the Photographic Charting squadron at Bradley Field, Conn. She was given special training at the Victograph School of the Polaroid corporation, Cambridge, Mass., in 3 dimensional photography before going to her assignment. She was a member of the first WAC group to attend the Air Corps Technical school in aerial photography at Lowry Field, Colo., and was with the first company of WACs to be detailed to Bradley Feld last April. A graduate of Iowa State Teachers college at Cedar Falls and the University of Colorado, Sgt. Grell was a teacher before her enlistment a year ago. Her two brothers, Cpl. Orval J. Grell and Pvt. Reuben E. Grell, are also in the army.

Source: Globe-Gazette, Mason City IA - June 4, 1943