Pvt. Jeanne S. Solimine

In 1943 artist Francis V. Kughler, Hudson River Museum Director H. Armour Smith and Women’s Army Corps recruiter Joanne Coates conceived a plan to encourage women of Yonkers to enlist in the army and honor their contribution. Every Yonkers woman who joined the WACs would have her portrait made in oil or pastel by Kughler.

Jeanne Solimine was employed at Habirshaw Cable and Wire at the time of her recruitment. However, she was trained as a nurse, and had attended the Ballard School of Practical Nursing. Previously a member of the Red Cross, she resumed her medical career and served as an Army Surgical technician attached to the top secret 10th Mountain Division Winter Warriors, Camp Hope, Colorado.

Solimine received a Key to the City of Yonkers for her military service during World War II. Her brother, Victor Solimine was a member of the Army Air Force in Texas.