The U.S. House of Representatives on Nov. 13 approved bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) to honor American females who joined the workforce or volunteered during World War II.
“I’m proud that the House has recognized these home front-heroes with the passage of the bipartisan Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Act,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick.
The congressman is the lead original cosponsor of the Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2019, H.R. 1773, with bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) and 292 other cosponsors, which would award a single Congressional Gold Medal to recognize the females who held employment or volunteered in support of the war efforts during World War II, according to the congressional record summary.
The medal would be displayed at the National Museum of American History, which also would have to make the medal available for display at other locations associated with Rosie the Riveter, according to the summary.
“Throughout our nation’s history, countless Americans have answered the call to serve during times of conflict and turmoil,” Rep. Fitzpatrick said. “During World War II, women across the country — and across our district — left their homes for factory jobs in support of the war effort: Working as riveters, buckers, welders, and electricians.”
“These ‘Rosie the Riveters’ embodied the ‘We can do it’ spirit forever connected with the famous poster,” said the lawmaker, who added that he’s “especially proud to represent a ‘Rosie,’ Mae Krier of Levittown, who has worked tirelessly in advocating for this long-deserved recognition.”
The U.S. Senate on Nov. 14 received H.R. 1773 and referred the measure to the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee for consideration.