PEGASUS BRIDGE, France – Anna Mae Krier, a 98-year-old former riveter, proudly recalls her role in building over 6,000 aircraft during World War II, including the 5,000th B-17 bomber that she signed her name on. In Normandy for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, Krier highlights the contributions of women in the war effort, emphasizing their work in defense-industry factories when men went off to fight.
Krier, along with millions of other women, played a crucial role in producing weaponry and equipment that supported the war efforts. They were symbolized by “Rosie the Riveter,” a recruitment poster icon that encouraged women to join the workforce in support of the war. Women like Krier were essential in building the planes, tanks, ammunition, and ships used in the Allied invasion of Normandy, helping to defeat Adolf Hitler’s tyranny and liberate Europe.
Additionally, women flew the planes that they helped build, with the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) fulfilling noncombat flight missions that freed up male pilots for battle. Despite their important contributions, women defense workers were initially unrecognized for their efforts. It wasn’t until years later that they received veteran status and the Congressional Gold Medal for their service.
Krier and other former “Rosies” are proud to have paved the way for young women today, recognizing the importance of their work during the war. As the world commemorates the 80th anniversary of D-Day, these women reflect on their roles in history and the impact they had in shaping the world we live in today.
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