It is a rare opportunity to learn history from the folks who made it. That chance presented itself this past Saturday, Oct. 29, when an invitation was extended to attend a meeting of the American Rosie the Riveter Association, Laurel Chapter 18.
The "Rosies," as they call themselves, answered the call to work when America's young men left their jobs to enlist in the war effort during World War II. As the male workforce quickly diminished, women were encouraged to apply for jobs typically filled by men. These gals became streetcar drivers, factory workers and ship and plane builders.
Among the women in the group was Wilma Foster. Originally from Winchester, Va., she went to work in 1943 at Fairchild Aircraft, in Hagerstown. She worked on the PT-19 fighter trainer planes. "That plane won the war," she said.
Gladys Beall, another member of the expanding group, was on hand. She had worked in a factory with fabrics, which were used to make military uniforms.
The featured speaker was Jeri McIntire. Her Rosie story is one of many about an ordinary young girl who did extraordinary tasks. Jeri said that her home life was less than ideal, and she was under the care of a heavy-handed stepmother when she left to join the rodeo.
With the war underway, and a brother serving with the Navy in the Pacific, Jeri decided to answer the call to work on behalf of the armed forces. Having no intention of being a welder, after some encouragement Jeri took the 10-day vocational course. Finishing her studies in just five days, she went to work at the Charlestown Shipyard, near Bunker Hill, in Boston. Jeri said that she "loved welding" and that she was meant to do it, and she was "good" at it.
These are just a few of the inspirational stories these history-makers have to tell.
If you were a Rosie, or know someone who was, you are encouraged to get in touch with the group and become a part of what they are doing to keep this legacy of service alive. Interested? Call the local chapter's president, Anne Marie Miller, at 301-498-3397.
First United Methodist Church, 412 Main St., will hold its annual Fall Bazaar Saturday, Nov. 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Kitchen items, jewelry and woodworks will be among the items for sale .
Happy Birthday to Jane Sherman on Oct. 10; Jane Pennington, who celebrated on Oct. 25; and my dear friend "Bess," who celebrates Nov 5.
Janet and Norman Giddings celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on Oct. 31. Loving good wishes were extended to them by the entire family.
Condolences to Charles Nickell and his family on the sudden loss of his wife, Lisa.