Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (R,C,I-Smithtown) and the Long Island Assembly Minority delegation unveiled a plan to honor the women who filled vacated positions here at home while men were called to serve during WWII by presenting them with “Rosie the Riveter” awards. With each passing year, the number of women who broke through traditional perceptions and went off to work at steel mills, shipyards, and lumber mills dwindles, and Assemblyman Fitzpatrick believes it’s time for the state to honor these heroes.

“At the height of World War II, with so many men serving on our front lines, we were in desperate need of a way to keep production up here at home,” said Fitzpatrick. “These women were able to overcome traditional stereotypes, take on difficult jobs normally reserved for men, and play a vital role in our success. It’s time we honored them.”

Special certificates will be awarded that recognize and pay tribute to these patriotic women whose sacrifice helped support wartime production. The program is similar to “Operation Recognition,” which awarded diplomas to veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War who did not receive them because of leaving school to serve in the armed forces.

For more information, or if you know someone who was a “Rosie,” please contact Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick’s district office by calling (631) 724-2929.