Honoring America’s Rosies: Women who powered the home front

Rosie the Riveters, American women who stepped up during World War II to work in factories, were honored at the Capitol.

Kayla Guo Reporting from Washington

April 10, 2024

Marian Sousa, at 17, joined the workforce drafting blueprints for troop transports. She was one of roughly 6 million women who worked during the war.

Ms. Sousa and other Rosies received the Congressional Gold Medal, a recognition long overdue. Congress passed legislation in 2020 for this honor.

The Rosies filled jobs left by men serving in the war. They worked tirelessly to support the war effort and bring their loved ones back home.

Many were forced out of their jobs after the war, but their legacy remains. They showed that women could do any job.

Senator Susan Collins praised their contributions, saying they forever changed the role of women in the workforce.

Mae Krier, one of the Rosies, fought for recognition for years. She built aircraft during the war and continues to inspire.

Gloria McCormack and Velma Long, both in their nineties, also received recognition for their wartime efforts.

Senator Bob Casey credited Mae Krier for ensuring the Rosies’ history won’t be forgotten.

Ms. Krier’s message to young girls today: “We can do it!”

Repurposed article originally published in The New York Times