[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 101 (Friday, June 14, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E634]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





           HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MS. MARY HIGHFILL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 14, 2024

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of Ms. Mary Highfill, a ``Rosie'' whose critical contributions to the 
World War II Home Front helped empower American women and advance 
gender equity in the workforce. Ms. Highfill, who passed away at the 
age of 100, leaves behind an indelible legacy of service to our country 
and Contra Costa County.
  Born in San Francisco and raised in Point Richmond, California, Ms. 
Highfill's commitment to her community inspired her to enter the 
workforce at a young age. During World War II, she joined her fellow 
Rosies in answering the call to serve and help meet the unprecedented 
demand for war materials and support services. During the war, she 
worked at Standard Oil Company as a stillman, where she helped prepare 
crude oil to be shipped for use at home and abroad. When our country 
needed courageous women to fill the roles historically held by men, Ms. 
Highfill's selflessness and bravery led her to step up and sacrifice 
her personal comfort for the sake of our country.
  Ms. Highfill's passion for service expanded beyond her essential 
contributions to the World War II Home Front. She also served as 
President of the Washington School Parent Teacher Association and as a 
member of the Richmond Galileo Club Women's Auxiliary. In addition, Ms. 
Highfill served as Secretary of the Historical Association and 
participated in countless Rosie the Riveter events to honor and 
celebrate the legacy of the millions of women who selflessly supported 
the wartime effort during World War II.
  Rosies like Ms. Highfill are a testament to women's empowerment and 
an inspiration to future generations of women and girls. Ms. Highfill 
will be remembered not only for her service to our country in its time 
of need, but also for her vital part in building a stronger, more 
equitable America. I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Ms. 
Highfill's loved ones. I know they and the people of Contra Costa 
County join me in celebrating her life and legacy.

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