PEACHTREE CITY, Ga. – The women who worked at the factories to produce warplanes and war materials in the 1940s will be honored Sunday, April 19, with “Rosie the Riveter Day” at World War II Heritage Days, hosted by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Dixie Wing at Atlanta Regional Airport – Falcon Field (KFFC).
Several women who participated in the war effort will be present to talk about their experiences, and anyone who is interested is invited to dress the part with traditional clothing worn by Rosie the Riveters. All Rosie the Riveters are invited for a group photo at 2 pm.
“We hope this Rosie the Riveter Day provides greater recognition for the critical role women played in World War II, and we hope many other attendees will honor them by dressing the part for the day,” said Wing Leader Jim Buckley.
The two-day event on April 18 and 19 also will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Allied victory and end of the Second World War in 1945. The program, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, provides a living history experience, bringing together historic aircraft, vintage military vehicles, antique cars, educational displays and demonstrations, including mock military ground battles staged by war re-enactors.
The CAF Dixie Wing’s fleet of World War II aircraft will be on display for the 12th annual World War II Heritage Days weekend, including a Corsair, P-51 Mustang, SBD-Dauntless dive bomber and other restored aircraft.
Rides on these aircraft and a rare B-24 Liberator bomber flying in from Texas can be scheduled in advance online.
The CAF’s B-24, “Diamond Lil,” one of only two still flying, is scheduled to arrive at Falcon Field on Friday, April 17. The B-24 was used by the United States, Great Britain and Canada during World War II and ended the war as the most produced heavy bomber, with 18,400 copies built.
Former B-24 crew members and other World War II veterans will be on hand to share their experiences through a series of panel discussions. Joining the airmen will be Mustang and Corsair pilots; award-winning author Bruce Gamble, noted for his series of books on the famed Black Sheep Squadron; women veterans and Rosie the Riveters.
Suggested donation for WWII Heritage Days is $5. World War II veterans, active duty military in uniform and children 5 and under are admitted free. WWII Heritage Days will take place rain or shine.
Wonderful event and recognition for the Rosies, other WWII women veterans and all WWII veterans. And, it’s always good to see coverage for the Commemorative Air Force, its mission and events. Best wishes for good weather and a great celebration!