Despite adversity, Hazel Ying Lee’s story as a trailblazer in World War II aviation is inspiring to all readers. She exemplified the core Army Values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. Her tenacity, resilience, and drive in the face of wartime challenges are poignant reminders of the strength of the human spirit. All leaders can learn from her example and add valuable lessons to their “leader rucksacks” after reading this universal story of the American Flygirl.
Susan Tate Ankeny is an accomplished nonfiction writer of World War II history books. As a former educator, the daughter of a World War II bombardier, and the great-granddaughter of Oregon pioneers, Ankeny brings a unique perspective to this biography. Her personal connection to World War II history and her hometown roots enriches the narrative, providing a balanced blend of historical context and emotional depth.
In American Flygirl, Ankeny captures the patriotism, resilience and determination of Lee, who pursued her dream against all odds to become an American hero. Through Ankeny’s lens, Lee’s story comes alive as one of the most inspiring biographies I have ever read. The book vividly portrays the spirit, drive, and passion of Lee, the American-born daughter of Chinese immigrants, as she chased her dream despite the stereotypes, inequalities, and challenges of her time. Ankeny’s storytelling is personal, sincere, and at times shocking, adding power to the message conveyed in Lee’s journey.
Ankeny skillfully highlights the significant personal and professional events in Lee’s life. She sets the stage by exploring Lee’s relationships with her parents, siblings, and the local Chinese community, which shaped her drive to prove that women were just as capable as men—if not more so—of flying during wartime. The loss of her father in 1931, a man she barely knew, inspired Lee to visit his village when she moved to China as a young adult. This formative experience deepened her connection to her heritage and fueled her determination to serve both the United States and China.
The demands of flying during World War II became the foundation for Lee’s tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit. Ankeny frequently describes her as fearless, intelligent, competitive, and joyful—a natural flyer who exuded confidence and led by example. She never complained, even during grueling eighteen-hour flight days in treacherous conditions. Her resilience and optimism made her a silent yet powerful leader among her peers.
Analyzing Lee’s life through the lens of the Army Values, it is clear that she embodied these principles. She demonstrated unwavering loyalty to both the United States and China, dedicating herself to flight training and the Chinese American flight programs funded by generous donors. She fulfilled her duties with excellence, whether at the Greenwood Flying School or as a Women Airforce Service Pilot (WASP), ferrying aircraft during the war. She understood the weight of her role, not just as an individual but as a representative of the Asian American community, breaking cultural norms with grace and determination. She was a Chinese American and wanted to use her flying skills to fight back against the enemy.
Lee treated everyone she encountered with dignity and respect, even in the face of social norms, gender bias, and racial inequalities. During her training at Avenger Field, she formed close bonds with her fellow WASP trainees, who became like family and were more like sisters than any sisters Lee had. She earned the respect of her peers, flight instructors, and WASP leadership through her dedication and skill.
Hazel’s integrity and personal courage were evident in her relentless pursuit of her dream to fly. Pinning her flight wings was the proudest moment of her life. She went above and beyond the requirements, often encouraging her fellow WASP pilots to see the greater good in their efforts. As one of the first Chinese American women to earn a pilot’s license, she defied the odds and inequalities of her time with honor and determination. She was an unsung hero of the ferrying program, which had a better safety record than its male counterparts and often took on missions that men refused to perform.
Ankeny’s writing brings Lee’s extraordinary story to life with vivid detail and emotional resonance. The book not only honors Lee’s legacy but also serves as a testament to the resilience and courage of women who broke barriers during World War II. American Flygirl is a powerful and inspiring biography that reminds us of the sacrifices and contributions of trailblazers.
This book is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration, leadership lessons, or a deeper understanding of the contributions of women and minorities during World War II.