National “Rosie the Riveter Day,” designed to honor the women who worked in the factories and shipyards during World War II to keep America running while many men were overseas fighting in our country’s military effort, was celebrated on Wednesday, Mar. 21.
The celebration of the women’s role on behalf of the nation was marked with a rose garden dedication ceremony at the Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center in Miami.
Nancy Auster, RN, a military veteran and community liason for Vitas Healthcare, welcomed everyone and led the Pledge of Allegiance with the flags flying in the brisk breeze. The National Anthem was sung movingly by hospital staff member Tyrone Bryant.
The history of Rosie the Riveter was presented by Krystine Smith, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and member of the hospital staff.
“During WWII, every branch opened its doors to women,” Smith said. “Over 350,000 women enlisted in the military, working as mechanics, pilots, clerks, nurses, and ambulance drivers. As men left to serve overseas, women stepped up to fill vacant factory positions as riveters, welders, electricians, crane operators, and drivers, producing necessary wartime supplies for the men serving overseas.
“Women worked their family farms, keeping food on the American table. Women worked in offices and government agencies, ensuring that the country continued to run smoothly. These women became collectively known as Rosie the Riveter,” Smoth added.
Besides other veterans in attendance, two actual Rosie the Riveters were honored. Violet Hylas and Elizabeth Pyke, both 93, were recognized, They and other women present were given roses and Rosie bandanas.
Dr. Martha H. Corvea from the hospital conducted the dedication of the rose bushes and plaque.
“We’re doing this to commemorate the past and set a pathway for the future,” Dr. Corvea said following the ceremony. “It’s time to let these women share in the limelight.”
Hylas, who was a nurse and a lieutenant during World War II, was pleased with the recognition at the event.
“I enjoyed it,” Hylas said. “It was a nice thing.”
Pyke worked for Southern Engineering in Miami during WWII, making 20 millimeter bullets, using a large grinding machine. She also appreciated the event.
“I think it was wonderful,” Pyke said. “It was very thoughtful to think about us. It was wonderful for everybody to be here and celebrate.”
Chaplain Phillip Binnie led a remembrance prayer for Rosies no longer here. Then everyone sang God Bless America.
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