In 1942, Zecil Gravitz had just graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in chemistry. She began work at the Navy Yard in Philadelphia researching “fluxes,” part of the process in building battleships. She would join the Navy WAVES in 1943, working at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., and in Philadelphia as a chemist, and later as an expeditor.
 

 

Zecil Gravitz in uniform

 

A couple of songs from the WAVES book.

 
Zecil Gravitz in her WAVES uniform.

 
Zecil Gravitz in uniform, along with her service cards.

 
Zecil Gravitz’s notice of promotion.