Women’s Royal Society

The Women's Royal Society, officially known as the Women's Royal Naval Service (WRNS), was a branch of the British Navy that allowed women to serve in various roles during the 20th century, particularly during both World Wars. Established in 1917, it aimed to free up men for front-line duties by enabling women to take on essential support roles. The WRNS included positions such as clerks, cooks, and radio operators. It disbanded after each war but was reinstated in 1939 and continued until it merged with the regular Navy in 1993, marking a pivotal step in gender equality within the military.