Jessica Yellin Instagram – WE DID IT! REAL-LIFE ROSIES RECOGNIZED Congress honored a group of women who went to work during WWII, taking on traditional male-held occupations and earning the nickname “Rosie the Riveters,” with the Congressional Gold Medal. According to the Defense Department, roughly 5 million civilian women worked during WWII, many building ships, planes, and weapons. Though many of these women were forced out of their jobs after the war, their efforts were critical not only for sustaining the US through the war but proving women could be just as impactful in the workforce as men. About 2 dozen Rosies in their 90s and 100s attended the Congressional Gold Medal ceremony this week. Mae Krier, a Rosie who lobbied hard for recognition for years, accepted the medal on behalf of all Rosies. “I think they just got sick and tired of hearing from me,” she joked. “It’s just wonderful to finally get the award.” Why do you think this took so long? Comment your thoughts. #womenatwork #rosietheriveter #rosie