Native Americans in World War II

World War II brought several changes to what and how we eat. French, Italian, and Chinese food soon became popular in America beyond immigrant neighborhoods. Other changes were spurred by foods included in military rations and food produced using technologies developed during the war.

From the lives of young, immigrant women who worked the textile mills at Lowell National Historic Park to those of the female shipyard workers who were essential to the home front during World War II at Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historic Park, women’s history can be found at every park. If you want to understand our nation’s history, explore the remarkable legacies of American women.

During World War II, American women entered the workforce and the military in unprecedented numbers. These dramatic changes also altered the way they related to their homes, families, communities, and private lives. 

Despite facing a double burden of racism and sexism, Ola “Millie” Rexroat became the only Native American known to serve as a Women Airforce Service Pilot (WASP) during World War II.

June Townsend Gentry served in the Coast Guard SPARS during World War II, one of a few Native American women who enlisted in this branch of the military.

During World War II, opportunities for women expanded, including in the military. The Coast Guard created a women’s reserve known as the SPARS in 1942. Thousands of women from across the United States enlisted. They went through basic training and then were stationed on the home front. Spars faced challenges and discrimination, but also contributed to the war effort in many ways.   This lesson offers resources for exploring these women's lives.

Corrine Koshiway Goslin (Otoe) was one of six Native American women to enlist in the US Coast Guard SPARS during World War II. Her service freed men up to fight overseas. Over her life, she showed a commitment to patriotic service, to her tribe and to her country.

Nellie Locust enlisted in the SPARS of the US Coast Guard during World War II. As a Spar, Locust freed up a man to fight overseas. For Locust, service was part of her patriotic duty, as an American and as a Cherokee.

During World War II, each branch of the military created a women's reserve and recruited across the country. The US Coast Guard created the SPARS, the women's auxiliary. Recruits from Oklahoma were known as the "Sooner Squadron," and included six Native American women. Their service is a testament to the larger service of Native Americans in World War II.

Lula Mae O'Bannon was one of six Native American women who enlisted in the US Coast Guard SPARS during World War II. Her service took her across the United States, providing support to the war effort.