Rating:

0.0 (0 votes)

BILLINGS - Marjorie Rolle went on one of the biggest journeys of her life when she became a member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots in 1943.

During World War II, more than 25,000 applied to be WASPS and Rolle was one of about a thousand women who completed the training and became a female pilot that served our country. Over a 22-month span, she flew planes including B-24 liberators from factories to United States bases.

"During WW II, 38 WASPS lost their lives, their bodies were sent home in pine boxes, their families had to pay for the funerals and because they were not considered military American flags were not allowed on their coffins. You can see why it is so important that all the WASPS get the honor that they deserve, the Congressional Gold Medal," said Sen. Jon Tester.

Time has changed and almost 70 years later, Marjorie was honored for her service to the country on Tuesday at Billings Logan International Airport.

Friends and family recalled how Marjorie, one of four daughters of aviation pioneer Dick Logan, grew up riding her horses and flying. She was really bitten by the aviation bug after meeting Charles Lindberg and Amelia Earhart at the Billings airport in the 30's.

Her family says the WASPS help break glass ceilings and taught them all a lifelong lesson.

"Marge and the other people of her generation served as a wonderful stimulus for us to know that we can, we will and we do," said Greg Curtis, Majorie's nephew.

Marjorie's widower Ken Rolle is a World War Two veteran and received the honor on behalf of his late wife.

"It makes me feel like it's kinda important," said Ken Rolle about the award.

He says although world war two was a long time ago, it's nice to see that Marjorie now has her place in history, "you know there weren't very many women flying in WW II and she was special."

The Billings airport plans to display a picture of Rolle's Congressional gold medal. By the way last March, WASP's and their family traveled to Washington D.C. for a special ceremony there as well.