By KLTV Newsdesk –

Women have helped shape Britain’s Armed Forces for centuries. Although war was once seen as “men’s work”, women have long played vital roles in military service and continue to do so today.

Huddersfield’s own Patricia “Pat” Archer is one of those pioneers.

Serving as a Photographer in the Women’s Royal Air Force during the 1950s, Pat worked directly with armoury crews on the cameras fitted to aircraft, documented military life through her lens, and built lifelong friendships that remain cherished to this day.

In this fascinating interview with KLTV, Pat shares remarkable photographs and memories from her years in service, including her experience being stationed at the very base where the classic 1955 film The Dam Busters was filmed.

Now 94 years old and still going strong, Pat’s story is an important piece of local living history and a powerful reminder of the contribution women have made to Britain’s Armed Forces.

Special thanks to Patricia Archer for welcoming the KLTV team into her home and sharing her extraordinary story.