Sherrill Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Honor the Donut Dollies’ Service in Vietnam
WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) reintroduced the Donut Dollies Congressional Gold Medal Act to honor a group of women who risked their lives supporting troops on the frontlines in Vietnam. The Donut Dollies were a group of 627 women who traveled millions of miles across Vietnam to boost morale and provide emotional support to American troops — this bill would recognize their sacrifices with Congress’s highest honor.
“The Donut Dollies were on the frontlines of the Vietnam War, experiencing many of the same difficult conditions as active duty service members on the frontlines. However, the Donut Dollies' heroism and bravery have never been honored with the recognition they deserve. I have been proud to work alongside the Donut Dollies and New Jersey veterans to reintroduce this legislation, and will continue to fight for long-overdue recognition of their service and sacrifices,” said Rep. Sherrill.
"The Donut Dollies spent countless hours traveling by jeep, truck, boat, and helicopter to often remote bases throughout South Vietnam, and they were subject to the same sniper fire, mortars, and rocket attacks as service members. Yet through all the dangers and hardships they faced, these young women remained calm, courageous, and respectful of the military situation. They proved themselves brave, strong, and compassionate – and their exemplary efforts in a war zone undoubtedly helped to open doors and expand the scope of women’s roles in the military." said Gail J. McGovern, American Red Cross, Chairman of the Board of Governors.
"The Dollies’ work was in an active combat zone, dangerous, and some died fulfilling their mission.....Donut Dollies must be recognized for what they did and the importance of their presence on troop morale." said Brigadier General Doug Satterfield, U.S. Army (retired).
Original co-sponsors of this legislation include Representatives André Carson (IN-07), Gerry Connolly (VA-11), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Andy Harris (MD-01), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), and Andrea Salinas (OR-06).
During the Vietnam War, hundreds of women from the American Red Cross, known as the “Donut Dollies,” served overseas and provided critical support to over 280,500 U.S. servicemembers. These Red Cross workers, most of whom were between the ages of 21-24, were part of the Red Cross Supplemental Recreational Activities Overseas (SRAO) program. Throughout the war, the Donut Dollies traveled over 2,125,000 miles by helicopter, truck, and jeep to reach servicemembers and comfort those who had experienced the horrors of war. The Donut Dollies program was started in World War II and returned to support the conflicts in Korea and Vietnam.
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