Letter to the editor

To the editor,

The American Rosie the Riveter Association held their National Convention in Bettendorf at the Isle of Capri on June 7-9, 2019. The purpose was to recognize and preserve the history and legacy of working women during WWII. The three-day convention was a celebration honoring 27 Rosies, ages 90-100 years of age and their descendants and guests, totaling 125 attendees coming from 22 states.

Louise Unkrich of Swedesburg was one of the Rosie the Riveters in attendance. Singing several selections for the honorees were Jema, Josie and Julia Settles, great-granddaughters of Louise Unkrich and daughters of Jess and Joanna Settles.

A special thanks to Mark Kimzey of Kimzey Funeral Home, who was Master of Ceremonies at the Red Carpet Celebration. Mark shared World War II stories of each Rosie as they walked the red carpet and their 1940s picturedwas displayed. Mark Kimzey also shared his musical talents by leading a sing-a-long of patriotic songs.

A big thanks to Karen Doubleday, whose mother, Jean Van Syoc, was a Rosie the Riveter, accompanied on the piano for the color guard and the celebration evening.

Convention highlights also included cruise on the Celebration Belle riverboat, guided tour of Rock Island Arsenal, The Josh Duffee Orchestra playing 1940s music, and Gary Metivier's excellent documentary, Heart of the Story: Rosie The Riveter!

Thanks to everyone who supported the national convention to honor these amazing Rosies the Riveters.

​Trish Woepking, Conference Co-chairman

​Julia Unkrich, Conference Co-chairman