[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 68 (Thursday, April 18, 2024)]
[House]
[Pages H2511-H2512]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL RECIPIENT CLARICE LAFRENIERE

  (Ms. SALINAS asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. SALINAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my constituent 
Clarice Lafreniere, who was just awarded the Congressional Gold Medal 
for her service as a real-life Rosie the Riveter during World War II.
  I had the honor of meeting Clarice and her granddaughter in my office 
last week and hearing firsthand her story of courage and conviction 
during a very dark time in our Nation's history.
  Clarice gave birth to her daughter just hours after the attack on 
Pearl Harbor, but like many Americans, she felt the need to spring into 
action and support the war effort. So, Clarice went on to work at the 
Kaiser shipyard in Portland, where she cut and welded steel for ships.
  She wasn't the only one. In total, about 16 million women across the 
country served as riveters, buckers, welders, and electricians during 
the war. These real-life Rosies were critical to ensuring American 
victory.
  Today, Clarice is 102 years young, remains very active in her 
community, and is eager to share her story with younger generations.
  I can't think of anyone more deserving of our Nation's highest 
civilian honor, and I am so grateful to Clarice and her family for 
their service.

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