What Does the Memorial Commemorate?
The Memorial commemorates and interprets the important contributions that women made to the war effort as increasing numbers of men joined the armed services.Over 6 million women from all backgrounds, and from all over the country, worked at industrial jobs that challenged traditional notions of women’s capabilities and ensured American productivity that helped to win the war. The sight of women outfitted in overalls and wielding industrial tools became an icon that was popularized in the 1942 song, “Rosie the Riveter,” providing a nickname for all women who worked in wartime industries. Across the nation women worked in defense industries and support services including shipyards, steel mills, foundries, lumber mills, warehouses, offices, hospitals and daycare centers.
