Norma Kent of the WACS

"Norma Kent of the WACS" by Roy J. Snell is a novel written in the early 1940s. The story centers around Norma Kent, a recent college graduate who eagerly joins the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) during World War II. As she embarks on her new adventure at Fort Des Moines, she navigates the challenges of basic training while grappling with suspicions of espionage among her fellow recruits. At the start of the book, Norma Kent lies in a barrack full of other WAC recruits, reflecting on her decision to join the Army and the excitement and trepidation that accompanies this new chapter of her life. The opening scenes focus on her interactions with other girls, including a little Italian named Rosa and a tall girl named Lena, who present different dynamics within the group. As Norma adapts to military life, she becomes increasingly aware of her surroundings, including the odd behaviors of some recruits that lead her to suspect spy activity. This mixture of camaraderie, personal growth, and an unfolding mystery sets the stage for her journey in the WAC and the broader challenges faced during the war.