British Columbia Women's Service Corps - British & Commonwealth Military Badge Forum

Bill A · #1 05-03-10, 01:59 PM

When the Second World War broke out, Canada did not have an organized women's force. However, women in Canada had taken the initiative and started to form volunteer women's organization to assist in the defence of the country. The grandmother of the women's organizations was the British Columbia Women's Service Corps. Formed in 1938, it was eventually absorbed into the Canadian Women's Army Corps.

Doug N · #2 05-03-10, 11:41 PM

Bill,
How big is that badge? Do you know where it was worn?

Bill A · #3 06-03-10, 12:21 PM

Hi Doug, the patch is approx 2 5/8 in high by 3 in wide. I am researching the use, but with the size it could be either a hat insignia or sleeve. It has been sewn on at some point in time.

Bill A · #4 09-03-10, 01:43 PM

Received the research material yesterday. The flocked patch was worn on both a tam / bonnet private purchase head dress, and on an armband. The organization was formed in 1938, and by 1940 had units in Vancouver, Victoria and 12 other major British Columbia cities (not listed). They were trained by volunteer instructors from the CASF. (the Captain on parade says I need four volunteers for extra duty.... met by dead silence. Sgt Williams, pick three others and you to report to the BCWSF. Met by muttered curses and expletives. Sgt Williams, Cpls Dunn, Graham and Leclair report to the BCWSC... to realize they have won the lottery! Hundreds of women hanging on their every word...)