Discover the Captivating Story of Grace Banker and her Hello Girls in World War I

When we think about World War I, images of trenches, battles, and soldiers often come to mind. However, there were numerous unsung heroes who played pivotal roles in the war effort without stepping on the battlefield. One such hero was Grace Banker, a remarkable woman who with her Hello Girls answered the call of duty, forever changing the course of history.

The Hello Girls: Connecting a Nation in Need

The Hello Girls were a group of American women who served as bilingual telephone operators during World War I. At the time, communication technology was undergoing significant advancements, and the need for proficient telephone operators was crucial.

Grace Banker, a young and ambitious woman, was appointed as the Chief Operator of the Hello Girls. With her leadership skills and determination, Grace successfully recruited over 7,000 women to join the ranks of the Hello Girls. These women came from all walks of life, eager to serve their country and make a difference.

Grace Banker and Her Hello Girls Answer the Call: The Heroic Story of WWI Telephone Operators

by Claudia Friddell (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	43224 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Grace Banker: A Trailblazer for Women in the Military

Grace Banker was a trailblazer who defied the norms of her time. Born in New York City in 1892, Grace pursued higher education at Barnard College and Columbia University. She developed a passion for language and became fluent in French, a vital skill for her role as the Chief Operator.

During the war, Grace Banker and her Hello Girls were deployed to France, where they played a critical role in connecting the American Expeditionary Forces with the French military. Their tireless efforts ensured effective communication on the front lines, ultimately contributing to victory.

Grace Banker's exceptional leadership and intelligence led her to receive the Army Distinguished Service Medal – becoming the first woman to ever receive this prestigious honor. Her significant achievements paved the way for future generations of women in the military, breaking down barriers and proving their capabilities.

The Legacy Lives On

The Hello Girls' contributions to the war effort were indispensable, yet their service went unrecognized for decades. It was only in 1979 that the U.S. Congress granted them veteran status, acknowledging their invaluable contributions during World War I.

The story of Grace Banker and her Hello Girls remains an inspiration to all. Their unwavering dedication, brilliance, and patriotism exemplify the best parts of humanity.

Grace Banker and her Hello Girls were unsung heroes during World War I, using their skills and determination to answer the call of duty. Their vital contributions remain a testament to the power of women in historically male-dominated fields. The legacy of Grace Banker and her Hello Girls lives on, inspiring future generations to break barriers and make a difference in the world.

Grace Banker and Her Hello Girls Answer the Call: The Heroic Story of WWI Telephone Operators

by Claudia Friddell (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	43224 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

NCSS/CBC Notable Social Studies Trade Book
Bank Street College of Education Best Book of the Year

Led by twenty-five-year-old Grace Banker, thirty-two telephone operators — affectionately called "Hello Girls" back in the US — became the first female combatants in World War I.

Follow Grace Banker's journey from her busy life as a telephone switchboard trainer in New York to her pioneering role as the Chief Operator of the 1st Unit of World War I telephone operators in the battlefields of France. With expert skill, steady nerves, and steadfast loyalty, the Signal Corps operators transferred orders from commanders to battlefields and communicated top-secret messages between American and French headquarters. After faithfully serving her country —undaunted by freezing weather and fires; long hours and little sleep, and nearby shellings and far off explosions — Grace was the first and only woman operator in the Signal Corps to be awarded the Army's Distinguished Service Medal.