Do you know “Rose Bonavita?”
By Rosario Mariani, http://www.europebychoice.com
Women played a vital role during World War II in keeping America strong. As millions of young men were drafted to serve in the military, there was a huge shortage of manpower. In order to attract women to join the workforce, the government launched a campaign targeting women to lend their service in support of the war effort.
“Rosie” was a term used to refer to women who worked for the defense industries, so a campaign was initiated referring to “Rosie the Riviter.” She had the strength and endurance to say yes “We Can Do It”. Indeed, women responded and their participation helped us to secure victory.
Then, who was Rosie?
The Rosie of the Rosie the Riveter poster was Bonavita (1921-1966), the daughter of Italian immigrants, who worked as a riveter at the General Motors Eastern Aircraft Division in North Tarrytown, New York. She and her partner, Jennie Florio, set a production record by drilling nine hundred holes and driving thirty-three hundred rivets in the tail end of a Grumman TBF Avenger torpedo bomber during one six-hour overnight shift in June 1943. President Franklin D. Roosevelt later sent her a commendation letter. Her image in the ad conveys her dedication and her ability to get the job done.
After the war, Rose Bonavita married and became a homemaker on Long Island.
We remember with pride our Italian-American compatriot.
Rosario Mariani is the owner/CEO of Europe By Choice, which promotes travel to Italy and other select European countries. He has more than 40 years of experience in the travel industry, previously serving as Director of Italy Product for Italiatour and Club ABC Tours, and also in other positions with EuroFly, Alitalia and Air France.
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