This hat belonged to Captain Dorothea ‘Dee’ Hewlett of the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY). In 1937 the Corps changed its name to the Women’s Transport Service (WTS (FANY)), which is the name that can be seen on this cap badge.

Hewlett was awarded the 1939-45 Star, Africa Star, Italy Star and the War Medal. Initially a driver, she later taught on intelligence courses.

During the Second World War the FANY made a significant contribution to intelligence work. About 2000 members were recruited into the Special Operations Executive (SOE). Some learned Morse code and worked as wireless operators and encryption specialists to communicate with agents in the field. 39 FANYs were parachuted into occupied France to work as SOE agents.

This item is on loan from the FANY(PRVC).