Senators Gillibrand And Tillis Pass Resolution To Honor “Donut Dollies” For Wartime Service

Senators Gillibrand And Tillis Pass Resolution To Honor "Donut Dollies" For Wartime Service

May 5, 2026

Volunteers offered recreational activities, emotional support, and a sense of home to troops in combat zones during WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War

Today, U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) announced Senate passage of their resolution commending the "Donut Dollies" for their patriotic service and steadfast support of United States service members in combat and honoring their extraordinary contributions to troops' morale and well-being during wartime.

"The Donut Dollies are a vital part of our nation's history, and they deserve recognition for their bravery and selfless commitment to service," said Senator Gillibrand. "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."

"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 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."

Background:

During World War I, Salvation Army volunteers known as the "Doughnut Lassies" served near the front lines, providing coffee, doughnuts, and comfort to American troops, inspiring the later Red Cross "Donut Dollies" programs. During World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, American Red Cross volunteers traveled to bases and combat zones to boost morale by offering refreshments, recreation, and a connection to home. From 1965 to 1972 alone, more than 600 Donut Dollies served in Vietnam through the Supplemental Recreational Activities Overseas program, reaching hundreds of thousands of service members and often traveling by helicopter or convoy into dangerous areas. Military leaders credited their work as essential to maintaining troop morale. This resolution recognizes their courage, sacrifice, and lasting impact on generations of American troops.

Text of the resolution is available HERE.

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