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In 1941, Phyllis Roullier began working at the Willow Run Bomber Plant, helping assemble hydraulics and dimpling airplanes for World War II. The plant produced such a large number of plane that it became known as America's "Arsenal of Democracy."
On Monday, at a ceremony at Yankee Air Museum in Belleville, U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell honored Roullier, 97, of Bellvile and Mary Jezowski-Serge, 94, of Allen Park, two original "Rosie the Riveters" who filled factory jobs that had traditionally been held by men.
“Today was an important opportunity to honor two of the inspiring women who stepped up during one of the most turbulent times in our nation’s history, and helped redefine the role of women in the workplace,” Dingell said in a statement. “The Original Rosies’ bravery and resolve made victory in World War II possible, and their patriotism and hard work will forever remain part of the American story. Mary and Phyllis embody the best of American values and we will always be thankful for their strength, grace and gusto.”
Jezowski-Serge, worked at both the Cadillac Plant and Lincoln Plant in Detroit building planes, tanks, and other armaments, according to a media release.
