Image Credit: Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons
At our April 2026 meeting, Sullington Windmills WI was treated to a fascinating and warmly delivered talk by Gill Walby.
Joining the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS) at just 18, Gill shared personal memories spanning two decades of service, including the unique period of naval history when the WRNS merged with the Royal Navy.
Gill recalled both the camaraderie and the challenges of a role that was evolving alongside wider social change. Her anecdotes ranged from light-hearted moments of training and friendship to stories of foreign postings and more reflective insights on resilience and the pride of serving.
One part of the talk focused on the transition period when the WRNS formally integrated into the Royal Navy. Gill described the mixture of uncertainty and optimism that accompanied the change, offering a personal perspective on what it meant for women in service at the time. Her reflections highlighted not just institutional change, but the start of a broader shift in attitude toward women in the armed forces.
Engaging and informative, Gill’s talk left us with a deeper appreciation of the WRNS legacy and the individuals who shaped it. It was a reminder of how personal stories can bring history to life in ways that facts alone cannot.
Gill has chosen to donate her speaker’s fee to the Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Clubs, a charity dedicated to supporting former service personnel by helping them to connect, share experiences and combat loneliness in a welcoming environment. Find out more here [click].
The evening ended with refreshments, social time and the raffle.
