Senators Thom Tillis and Kirsten Gillibrand announced on May 5 the Senate’s passage of their resolution commending the “Donut Dollies” for their support of United States servicemembers during wartime.
The resolution recognizes the contributions of these women, who provided comfort and a sense of home to American troops in combat zones. The measure highlights the impact that emotional support and morale have on servicemembers facing dangerous conditions far from home.
“The Donut Dollies served our troops in some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable, bringing comfort, connection, and a reminder of home to those far from it,” said Senator Thom Tillis. “Their courage and compassion lifted morale on the front lines and left a lasting impact on generations of servicemembers. This resolution honors these extraordinary women for their selfless service and ensures their contributions to our nation are never forgotten.”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “The Donut Dollies are a vital part of our nation’s history, and they deserve recognition for their bravery and selfless commitment to service. These young women put their own lives in danger to aid our troops in combat zones, providing service members with emotional support and a sense of home in some of the most difficult conditions imaginable. I am so grateful that we were able to pass this vital resolution and properly honor the Donut Dollies’ contributions.”
According to historical accounts included with the announcement, Salvation Army volunteers known as “Doughnut Lassies” began supporting American troops near front lines during World War I by offering coffee, doughnuts, and comfort—efforts that inspired later Red Cross “Donut Dollies” programs during World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. From 1965 through 1972 alone, more than 600 Donut Dollies served in Vietnam under the Supplemental Recreation Activities Overseas program; they reached hundreds of thousands by traveling into dangerous areas by helicopter or convoy.
Tillis represents North Carolina in the United States Senate; he has advocated for better health care access for veterans as well as rural communities according to his official website. He previously led as speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives before joining Congress.
