Eighteen women, honored as Congressional Gold Medal recipients, received a hero's welcome at the National World War Two Museum, where they toured the home front exhibit. At the age of 97, former welder Jane Tucker shared her story of working in shipyards during the war, highlighting that women proved their capability in traditionally male roles. With over 5 million women engaged in the workforce while men were at war, their contribution significantly altered perceptions of women's roles, embodying empowerment and resilience that persists today, as symbolized by 'Rosie the Riveter.'
"Look at the women welders, now that's a familiar job. I worked in Savannah, Georgia building Liberty ships, and I learned to become a welder when I was just 16."
"The men said we couldn't do it; they claimed we were too emotional and weak for heavy work. So we said 'we can do it!'"
"Rosie has come to stand for an image of empowerment, a symbol of strength and can-do spirit," says Kimberly Guise.
"They worked ten-hour days, at least six days a week...Loose lips will sink ships."
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