The Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Ernest J. King, exercised his command responsibilities over activities ashore through the area commanders. There were 14 naval districts. District commandants exercised direct military command over naval bases and naval air bases located within their area commands. WAVES served on all naval bases and air bases within the United States, and many naval and air bases in the Caribbean, Atlantic and western Pacific zones such as the Territories of Alaska and Hawaii.
 

The WAVES initially did not the same allowances or benefits permitted for male officers and sailors. Nevertheless, later legislation was passed in 1943 that gave WAVES almost equal compensation and other benefits (although not fully equalized until after the war). Legislative amendments also permitted WAVES to serve beyond the stateside United States at certain stations in the US Territories (i.e., Alaska and Hawaii) and overseas. 

Moreover, there was extra pay to cover living expenses: food, comfortable quarters, medical and dental care, and clothing. When government facilities were not available, WAVES received an additional supplement to their pay, subsistence and quarter allowances totaling $2.75 a day. There were benefits prescribed by law for civil employees if suffering disability or death caused by disease or injury while on active duty. Life insurance at low government rates, privileges of free mail, reduced rates on transportation, movie and theatre tickets, and benefits from organizations such as the USO, Red Cross and Navy Relief gave advantageous incentives.
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