The publication is reproduced in full below:
IN RECOGNITION OF THE 100TH BIRTHDAY OF HELEN BANDYKE
______
HON. DEBBIE DINGELL
of michigan
in the house of representatives
Friday, April 30, 2021
Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Helen Bandyke of Dearborn on the occasion of her 100th birthday. Her contributions to our community as a Rosie the Riveter are worthy of commendation.
Born in Detroit, Michigan on March 29, 1921, Mrs. Bandyke attended Cass Technical High School, but moved to Dearborn in 1952 with her young family to be closer to her sister May. During World War II she worked at the Chrysler DeSoto factory building warplanes while her husband Ted served in the war.
Mrs. Bandyke recalls being told by her supervisors to ``slow down'' as she was working too fast for the production line. To this day she objects to the request because she was determined to singlehandedly win the war and bring her husband home. Beyond her efficient riveting of the plane wings, she frequently gave blood at the Red Cross. As a Rosie the Riveter, Helen's hard work, grit, and patriotism not only sustained the American war effort, but paved a path for the next generation of working women. After her time on the factory floor ended, she worked as an optician until the age of 81.
An active member of her church, St. Anselm's Parish in Dearborn Heights, Mr. and Mrs. Bandyke served as chaperones for the teen club. She is known for being a friendly face at the Arab American Museum and Wayne County Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, where she served as a volunteer. Her lifelong commitment to service reminds us all of the impact that the Rosies have had on our state and nation.
Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating Helen Bandyke on her 100th birthday. I join with her family--including her three children Sylvia, Mary, and Martin--and friends in extending my best and warmest wishes to her on this special day. I am proud to honor her life, her accomplishments, and her invaluable contributions to our nation.
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 75
The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
House Representatives' salaries are historically higher than the median US income.
Alerts Sign-up