NORMANDY, FRANCE - Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France, as part of a bipartisan Congressional Delegation. Throughout the trip, the delegation will observe and commemorate the anniversary, along with veterans, active-duty service members, government and military officials, and foreign dignitaries.
While there, Rep. Fitzpatrick presented Mae Krier, Bucks County's own Rosie the Riveter, the Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal. Fitzpatrick's historic bipartisan, bicameral bill, the Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Act, was signed into law in 2020 and honors the over 6 million women, like Mae, who served our nation during World War II. Mae has been an unrelenting champion and advocate for the Rosies and was instrumental in the efforts to gain support for the bill.
In a statement, Congressman Fitzpatrick said:
“Standing on the shores of Normandy on the 80th anniversary of D-Day is a profoundly stirring and emotional experience, steeped in the indomitable spirit, unparalleled bravery, and inspiring valor of the Greatest Generation. I am humbled to be here amongst the heroes who fought for our freedom and have the opportunity to thank them, honor them, hear their stories, and witness the outpouring of gratitude and appreciation for their service and sacrifice.
Among them, the incomparable, 98-year-old Mae Krier of Levittown. In a full circle moment, surrounded by all the fellow heroes she supported, I was proud to have the opportunity to present my friend Mae with the Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal.
As we continue to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, may we unite in reflecting upon the legacy of the heroes who stormed the beaches of Normandy to rid the world of fascism and evil. We must recommit to the values they fought to defend and always be inspired by their courage, bravery, and patriotism.”
Background:
Fitzpatrick’s bipartisan and bicameral legislation, the Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Act, to honor American women who joined the workforce and volunteered in support of the war effort during World War II was signed into law on December 4th, 2020.
The Congressional Gold Medal is the oldest and highest civilian award in the United States awarded by Congress. Only 185 people, events, and institutions have been awarded the distinction.
This April, Fitzpatrick was joined by Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and other members of Congress at the Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony, held in Emancipation Hall at the US Capitol.
Between 1940 and 1945, the percentage of women in the workforce jumped from 27% to nearly 37%, and by the end of the war, nearly one out of every four married women worked outside the home. As riveters, welders, and other laborers, this diverse women workforce played an integral part in meeting the ever-growing demand for war materials in factories, shipyards, and farms as well as for support services in schools and hospitals.