With the first Monday in September, Labor Day is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. So, it is fitting to honor the accomplishments of Rosie the Riveters as America celebrates Labor Day 2026, as well as the occasion of America’s 250th Birthday.

 

History was made in New Orleans June 2026 and I was grateful to be there to witness it unfold, as Rosie the Riveters, collectively, were named recipients of The 2026 National WWII Museum Foundation American Spirit Awards.

These prestigious annual American Spirit Awards are the highest honor given by the institution, and they honor individuals and organizations whose work reflects the values and spirit of those who served our country during the World War II years by inspiring others through their own acts of courage, sacrifice, initiative, and generosity—particularly in the areas of leadership, service to country or community, and education.

Two other lauded and notable American Spirit Award recipients were composer/conductor John Williams, and former safety for the New Orleans Saints/ALS survivor and advocate, Steve Gleason. The Louisiana Symphony Orchestra performed a concert of John Williams' beautiful compositions under the canopy of the WWII planes displayed overhead in the museum; a lovely salute to this composer.

So, why did I attend this convention and awards gala?  I am the proud Daughter of a WWII Rosie the Riveter. My mother, Anna and her twin sister, Alma, worked as Riveters for Boeing during WWII.  As a direct descendant of a Rosie, I joined the American Rosie the Riveter Association (ARRA) several years ago, and I attend the annual ARRA Convention to support and honor the Rosie’s work and legacy.  

 

Who was Rosie the Riveter? Nearly 19 million women held jobs during World War II, as a response to the call of need the country was displaying by stepping up to fill positions that were traditionally filled by men. The women began to work heavy construction machinery, taking roles in lumber and steel mills as well as physical labor including unloading freight, building airplanes, making munitions, and much more.  

The purpose of the ARRA is to recognize and preserve the history and legacy of working women, including volunteer women, during World War II; to promote cooperation and fellowship among such members and their descendants; and to further the advancement of patriotic ideals, excellence in the workplace, and loyalty to the United States of America.

The Higgins Hotel, just steps across the street from the National WWII Museum, served as the host hotel for the ARRA 2026 convention. The Higgins, a Hilton Curio Collection Hotel, is a gracious Art Deco architectural work of art, and I highly recommend a stay there as part of a visit to New Orleans and the World War II Museum. The service, cuisine, proximity, and accommodations were excellent.  Even the hotel rooftop bar was named “Rosie’s”!   A side note for you “foodies” out there - the Higgins also served one of the best bowls of gumbo in New Orleans, and I admit - I did some ‘gumbo research’ on this trip!

 

I wish to extend very special gratitude to the Gary Sinise Foundation, whose contributions of all travel, accommodations, and meals were provided for the 31 Rosies who attended the convention - ranging in age from 89 to 104 and traveling from all over the country for this history-making event.

Any story involving New Orleans is incomplete without mention of the Cafe Du Monde, their Beignets and Coffee.  

On the last evening of the New Orleans Convention, when 90+years young Rosie Delores says, “You know, I think I want to go to Bourbon Street for Beignets and Coffee”, what do you do? You band together and get this Rosie to Cafe Du Monde. Because, of course, “We Can Do It!”