Irene Sprague, one of North Dakota’s last known living Rosie the Riveters, received a special phone call from President Donald Trump wishing her a happy 100th birthday, according to an April 11 event attended by U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer in Dawson, North Dakota.
The celebration highlighted Sprague’s contributions during World War II when she worked alongside other women to support the Allied victory. Recognizing such service underscores the importance of honoring those who played vital roles on the home front during wartime.
Senator Kevin Cramer said, “The best part of my job is introducing my friends to each other,” and added, “Today’s celebration was more special by a phone call between Donald Trump and Irene Sprague. Otherwise known as President Trump and Rosie the Riveter.” In a social post, Cramer said that Sprague’s “work during World War II helped power America’s victory, and her strength and grit left a lasting mark on our nation.”
During the event, both Cramer and U.S. Senator John Hoeven presented Sprague with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol as well as a Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of her service.
Cramer assists North Dakotans with federal agencies to resolve issues and provide information, according to the official website. He grew up in Kindred, North Dakota; earned degrees from Concordia College and University of Mary; served three terms as North Dakota’s at-large representative in Congress before joining the Senate; serves on committees for Environment and Public Works, Veterans’ Affairs, Banking Housing and Urban Affairs; ran on energy policy platforms; is noted as first North Dakotan on Senate Armed Services Committee; has raised five children with his wife Kris; and enjoys time with their eight grandchildren according to his official biography.
Recognizing individuals like Irene Sprague highlights not only personal achievements but also broader contributions made by women during times of national need.
