Romay Davis facts for kids

Romay Davis (born Johnson; October 29, 1919 – June 21, 2024) was an amazing American woman. She received the Congressional Gold Medal, which is one of the highest awards a civilian can get in the United States. She earned it for her important service during World War II. Romay Davis was part of the first all-female, all-black unit in the United States Army that went overseas during the war. She passed away on June 21, 2024, in Montgomery, Alabama.

Who Was Romay Davis?

Romay Davis was born on October 29, 1919. She grew up in Virginia with her five brothers. When World War II began, she worked at the United States Mint, which is where money is made.

Joining the Army

In 1943, Romay Davis decided to join the Women's Army Corps, also known as the WAC. She became one of 885 brave women who served in a special group called the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. This group was very important because they helped sort mail for soldiers fighting overseas.

Serving in World War II

Romay Davis and her unit were first sent to England. The journey across the Atlantic Ocean was tough, and many got seasick. Once in England, their big job was to sort through a huge pile of mail that had been waiting for a long time. After that, they moved to France to sort even more mail that had built up there. Romay's main job was a driver, but she also helped sort the mail.

She returned to the United States in November 1945 and was honorably discharged from the Army. This means she officially finished her service.

Life After the War

After the war, Romay Davis moved to New York City. She used money from the G.I. Bill, which helps veterans with education, to go to the Traphagen School of Fashion. She became a designer and worked for a company called Glen of Michigan for over thirty years!

Even later in life, Romay loved learning. When she was 61, she went back to school at New York University and earned a master's degree in technology and industrial education.

A Martial Arts Master

Romay Davis was also very active! She started learning Taekwondo, a type of martial art, when she was 73 years old. She worked hard and earned a second-degree black belt!

Working at Winn-Dixie

When she was 81, Romay Davis started working at a Winn-Dixie grocery store. Her story inspired many people. In 2020, the company that owns Winn-Dixie started a special program called the Romay Davis Belonging, Inclusion and Diversity Grant. This grant helps support organizations that work with minority groups.

Celebrating Her Milestones

Romay Davis lived a long and full life. In 2020, she turned 101 years old! The city of Montgomery, Alabama, where she lived, honored her with a parade. They even declared her birthday "Romay Davis Day." The town had also celebrated her 100th birthday the year before.

Awards and Recognition

In 2022, Romay Davis received the Congressional Gold Medal. This award recognized her amazing service in the United States Army during World War II. When people asked her why she served her country, she simply replied, "It's my country too."

Personal Life

Romay Davis married Jerry Davis. They met in New York City, where he worked for the city's subway system.