Earlier today, youth enrolled in Youth & Family Services’ Girls Inc. of Rapid City and Middle School Program attended a presentation on the contributions of women during World War II. The presentation was led by local educator and historian Don Balyeat and featured authentic military documents, photographs, letters, and other materials showcasing the roles women played in serving the United States and its allies during the war.

“It’s a part of our history that should not be forgotten,” said Balyeat, who has been providing presentations on the topic since 2011. So far, he has presented to more than 21,000 individuals.

In addition to the oral presentation and viewing the artifacts, youth enjoyed watching a slideshow of photos that played in conjunction with the legendary “Rosie the Riveter” song.

They also learned about local heroes from various theaters of the war. One such example was Ola Mildred Rexrota, the only Native American woman to serve in the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs). A member of the Oglala Nation, Ola graduated from the St. Mary’s Episcopal Indian School in Springfield, South Dakota, in 1932, before joining the WASPs. 

During the presentation, students eagerly asked questions ranging from how many women served in World War II to what it was like for Balyeat to walk to school as a child alongside several “Rosies” from his neighborhood. Some of the youth were excited to share stories about their own family members who have or currently serve in the military.

Balyeat shared he enjoys answering the students’ questions and encourages them to conduct further research on the topic. “I hope they go and look up their family history, so they can learn more about who they are,” he remarked.

Balyeat also expressed his thanks to the teachers who allow him into their classrooms to present this information. “They are the ones who open the door [to knowledge] and say, ‘Come on in.’”

This is not the first time Balyeat has presented to students at YFS. In a previous visit, he shared information about his other passion, the Civil War. Like during his WWII presentation, Don showcases real antiques from the Civil War era and allows the students to interact with them personally. 

“People ask me, ‘Why do you let them touch that stuff?’ I always say, ‘Why else would I bring it? It’s been through a lot worse than a classroom.’”