State Reps. Tina Davis and Melissa Shusterman, both Democrats, honored Bristol’s Mae Krier, a trailblazing member of the “Rosie the Riveter” generation, in celebration of her 100th birthday and her lifelong advocacy on behalf of women who supported the nation during World War II. The recognition took place in conjunction with H.R. 385, which designated March 21, 2026, as “Rosie the Riveter Day” in Pennsylvania.
The resolution commemorated the millions of American women who entered the workforce during World War II to support the war effort, filling critical roles in manufacturing, industry, and military support services. These women, many of whom lived and worked across Pennsylvania, played a vital role in securing victory and reshaping the nation’s workforce.
“It is my honor to recognize Rosie the Riveter Day here in Pennsylvania,” Shusterman said. “Mae Krier’s tireless advocacy for the Rosies to receive the accolades they deserve has always been inspiring to me. At a time when some people are attempting to erase our shared history, it is more important than ever to elevate all the trailblazers and women who have come before us.”
Davis emphasized the importance of recognizing both Krier’s legacy and the broader impact of the Rosie the Riveter generation.
“Mae Krier represents the very best of this generation—courageous, determined, and deeply patriotic,” Davis said. “As her state representative, it was especially meaningful to celebrate her 100th birthday and honor her extraordinary contributions, both during World War II and through her tireless advocacy to ensure these women received the recognition they deserved.”
During the war, thousands of women across Pennsylvania stepped into roles traditionally held by men. They built ships at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, worked in steel mills in the Mon Valley, assembled anti-aircraft guns in York, manufactured Mack trucks in Allentown, repaired airplanes in Middletown, and processed ammunition at the Letterkenny Ordnance Depot in Franklin County.
“Rosie the Riveter” became an enduring symbol of female patriotism, resilience, and work ethic. In 2017, the U.S. Congress officially designated March 21 as National Rosie the Riveter Day. In 2020, Congress further honored these women by awarding them the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the nation’s highest civilian honors.
In April 2024, Krier—one of Pennsylvania’s original Rosies—accepted the Congressional Gold Medal on behalf of all women who contributed to the war effort. Her advocacy was instrumental in achieving this recognition, ensuring that the sacrifices and accomplishments of her generation received the acknowledgment they deserved.
“Pennsylvania’s Rosies were essential to our nation’s success,” Davis said. “Their work changed the course of history and continues to inspire generations of women today.”
Shusterman represents the 157th Legislative District, comprised of Easttown, Schuylkill, Tredyffrin, and Willistown townships in Chester County.
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