WILMINGTON, DE – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced a Senate resolution to recognize March 21 as “National Rosie the Riveter Day” to raise awareness of the 16 million women who worked during World War II.

“These brave women recognized their country needed them; they heard the call and they answered,” said Sen. Coons. “It’s my pleasure to help recognize the women who worked and volunteered from the home front during WWII to support the Armed Forces overseas. This bill will recognize and preserve the history and legacy of working women, including volunteer women, during World War II to promote cooperation and fellowship among those women and their descendants.”

Riveters left their homes to work or volunteer full-time in factories, farms, shipyards, airplane factories,

banks, and other institutions to support the war efforts. The women worked with the United Service Organizations and the American Red Cross, drove trucks, riveted airplane parts, collected critical materials, rolled bandages, and served on rationing boards.

Sen. Coons’ office will partner with the Delaware Historical Society to gather stories, photos and other memories from family members, or Delaware Rosies themselves in order to preserve their stories for future generations. Delawareans who would like to submit their photos or other items are encouraged to contact Leigh Rifenburg, Chief Curator of the Delaware Historical Society at 302-295-2386 or via email at lrifenburg@dehistory.org