Lower Bucks Today

This weekend, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick hosted a Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, to honor women from Bucks and Montgomery Counties who served as Rosie the Riveters during World War II. The event celebrated their contributions to the war effort and their role in advancing women's empowerment.

Four living Rosies attended: Rita Colella (102), Dorothy Trate (102), Michaeline “Mickey” Kryven (97), and Mae Krier (98). Families of fifteen deceased Rosies also participated, receiving medals, citations, and American flags flown over the U.S. Capitol.

Erika Bennett, granddaughter of Virginia DiMaggio, expressed gratitude for the recognition of her grandmother's work at Kaiser-Fleetwings during WWII. Dr. Cheryl D. Heath-Johnson spoke on behalf of Eunice Pearl Heath's family, highlighting the importance of recognizing African American Rosies like Heath.

Jean Colella thanked Fitzpatrick for honoring her mother-in-law Rita Colella. Phyllis Kryven shared her mother's joy at being recognized.

The ceremony included speeches from notable figures such as Major General (Retired) Dr. Linda Singh and Bucks County Historical Society CEO Kyle McCoy. Singh praised the legacy of unity among women workers during WWII, while McCoy emphasized Rosie's lasting impact on challenging gender stereotypes.

Fitzpatrick's bipartisan legislation, signed into law in December 2020, honors six million women who supported the war effort. Mae Krier accepted a Congressional Gold Medal on behalf of all Rosies earlier this year at an event attended by congressional leaders.

Fitzpatrick recently secured another Congressional Gold Medal for Billie Jean King for her advocacy for equality.

During his remarks, Fitzpatrick highlighted the courage and patriotism of local Rosies who contributed to building machinery crucial for freedom and democracy during WWII. He underscored their role in shaping modern America through their efforts in factories like Kaiser Fleetwing in Bristol Borough.

The ceremony served as both a commemoration of history and a reminder that these women's sacrifices continue to influence society today.