Packard Proving Grounds Honoring WWII ‘Rosies’ During September Event

We all know the iconic image from World War II of Rosie the Riveter. Based off the image of Naomi Fraley, she was meant to inspire women to enter the workforce while the men went to war, and help assemble machinery and aircraft meant for the war effort.

Well, she played an important part in all of America, including Michigan, and in September, the Packard Proving Grounds will honor Rosies everywhere with a special event.

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The Packard Proving Grounds in Shelby Township is an historic site for Michigan. It was the testing area for the Packard Motor Company in Detroit, and later on for a number of other legendary vehicles.

But one of its most well-known functions was during World War II. Chrysler used it to test tanks and other armored vehicles before they were fully mass produced and sent overseas for our military.

And part of that history included many Rosie the Riveters.

While we're aware of the iconic pinup image, women who did enter the workforce mimicked the look, and were dubbed "Rosies" by many in the workforce. In fact, many of them were put into heavy manufacturing positions, working on planes, and heavy equipment.

To say the Rosies were pivotal in the war effort is an understatement, so when there's a chance to honor them, we should take that opportunity. That's just what's happening this September in Shelby Township.

The Packard Proving Grounds will host a Rosie the Riveter Memorial Garden luncheon on Sept. 22, honoring those who contributed to the war. Specifically, they'll honor eight who were particularly impactful: Jane Lusik, Bernice Palmer, Martha Oren, Helen Riley, June Tolan, Virginia Levy, Edna Leadford, and Hellen Endykewicz.

This will also be the unveiling of the Rosie the RIveter Memorial Garden which was planted in the memory of the. Packard Motor Car. Co. "Rosies."

Debra Wake, who is the education and volunteer Coordinator at the Holland Museum in Holland, Michigan, will lead the "Heroes on the Home-front" program. She also worked for 25 years at The Henry Ford Museum and retired in 2020. She's also a member of the American Rosie of the Riveter Association.

"As a member of the American Rosie the Riveter Association it is my honor to share the story of Rosie the Riveter... We Promote the story of Rosie's commitment to helping to win World War II and keeping the homefront running... These women had moxie and determination, and this country could not have won the war without them."

The event will be Sept. 22, starting at 1 pm, and you can get your tickets, and all other information on the event through their website.