Mae Krier, a trailblazing “Rosie the Riveter” from Levittown, is set to receive the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal, writes Alfred Lubrano for The Philadelphia Inquirer.  

The enduring image of the Rosies is captured in the iconic 1943 “We Can Do It!” poster by graphic artist J. Howard Miller.

Krier was an actual riveter herself, among the millions of women who stepped into factories and shipyards to arm the Allies during WWII. 

She dedicated two years to meticulously securing rivets on B-17 bombers for a wage that was half of what her male counterparts earned, only to witness the women, including numerous widows, being dismissed with termination notices while returning men were celebrated. This disparity deeply angered her.  

The Congressional Gold Medal, America’s oldest and most esteemed civilian accolade, will soon honor these women’s contributions.  

This award comes after years of advocacy by Krier and others to ensure the Rosies’ legacy is celebrated before it fades into history.  

In June, Krier will visit France to mark the 80th anniversary of the Normandy invasion. 

 Additionally, she actively engages in spreading her message about empowering women in fields like astronautics and engineering.  

Read more about Levittown’s Mae Krier in The Philadelphia Inquirer.  

Mae Krier, “Rosie the Riveter” during WWII (Full Interview)