Missouri Veterans Commission News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 09, 2010

WASP VETERAN ROSE "PENNY" ROSS TO PARTICIPATE IN CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL PRESENTATION IN WASHINGTON D.C.


            JEFFERSON CITY – Women Airforce Service Pilot (WASP) Rose Penn "Penny" Ross, a resident of the Missouri Veterans Home – Mexico, will participate in the WASP Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony on Wednesday, March 10, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. at the U.S. Capitol.              The Congressional Gold Medal is commissioned by the U.S. Congress as its highest expression of appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions of an individual, institution or event. Others who have received this award include Charles M. Schultz, Dr. Jonas Salk, and the Navaho Code Talkers
Penny, who already had a pilot's license, was asked to join the Women's Air Force Service Pilots in March 1943. Penny did her part in the war within the United States, bringing planes from factories to bases, flying experimental aircrafts and towing targets for the gunnery school. WASP consisted of about 1,000 women and weren't considered part of the military until 1977.
 "Brave American women have always answered our country's call to freedom and liberty. Penny was qualified to fly both B-26 and B-29 bombers and, in her words, was 'told to prove to the men that they were easy to fly.' This is exactly what she did. I commend Penny, the WASPs and all women who serve our country," said Larry D. Kay, Executive Director of the Missouri Veterans Commission.
The Missouri Veterans Commission, a state agency, operates seven State Veterans Homes, five State Veterans Cemeteries, and the Veterans Services Program.  The Commission is committed to honoring and serving Missouri's Veterans whose dedication and sacrifices have preserved our nation and its freedoms.  For more information about the Missouri Veterans Commission programs, call 573-751-3779 or access the Missouri Veterans Commission webpage at www.mvc.dps.mo.gov. 

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For more information, call 573-522-1421 or e-mail Daniel.Bell@mvc.dps.mo.gov