When the United States entered World War II in 1941, people all across Alabama helped with the war effort. Some served in the military, while others took on new jobs at home to support the fight. Alabama’s contributions were important to winning the war and changing the state’s future.
Military Heroes from Alabama
Many Alabamians served bravely in the armed forces. One famous group was the Tuskegee Airmen, a team of Black pilots who trained in Tuskegee, Alabama. They flew dangerous missions and helped prove that Black Americans could serve as skilled pilots, even though the military was still segregated at the time.
Several Alabama soldiers earned the nation’s highest award, the Medal of Honor. Henry “Red” Erwin received the medal for saving his crew by throwing a burning bomb out of his plane, even though he was badly hurt. Howard Gilmore earned the medal for protecting his submarine and crew in battle. These heroes showed courage and sacrifice.
New Jobs and Opportunities at Home
While many Alabamians went off to war, others worked at home to help. Factories in Alabama made ships, airplanes, and weapons. In Mobile, women worked as welders at the Alabama Dry Dock and Shipbuilding Company (ADDSCO). Before the war, these jobs were mostly held by men, but now women stepped up to fill important roles.
Black Alabamians also gained new opportunities. Executive Order 8802 made it illegal to block Black workers from defense jobs. This allowed more Black men and women to work in factories that had been closed to them before. People like Bess Bolden Walcott helped organize efforts to support Black soldiers and workers during the war.
Some Alabama women also joined special military programs. Nancy Batson became a pilot with the Women’s Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs). She helped fly planes across the country so male pilots could be sent to battle.
Everyone Working Together
Alabamians showed their support for the war in many ways. People planted victory gardens, collected scrap metal, and bought war bonds to raise money for the military. Children helped by gathering rubber and tin for recycling. Across Alabama, families worked hard to support the soldiers overseas.
The efforts of Alabamians—whether on the battlefield or at home—helped the United States win World War II. Their courage, hard work, and sacrifices left a lasting impact on both the state and the country.