The Musical Marines
The MCWRB marching. Eleanor Jones Collection, UWEC McIntyre Library Special Collections and Archives.”
The women of the Marine Corps Women's Reserve Band were trailblazers in their time. Despite facing discrimination and sexism, these women showed their dedication to their country and their love for music by joining the Marine Corps Women's Reserve Band. They were not only talented musicians, but also proved to be skilled in other areas such as mechanics and administration. With their performances at various military functions and events, they provided a sense of comfort and hope to the soldiers who were fighting on the front lines. These women paved the way for future generations of female musicians in the military and left a lasting legacy in the Marine Corps.
Magazine on the MCWRB titled “The Musical Marines, Celebrating 169 years of the Corps." Eleanor Jones Collection, UWEC McIntyre Library Special Collections and Archives.”
Harmony in Service
The music of the Marine Corps Women's Reserve Band was an essential part of their contribution to the war effort during World War II. Their music was not only entertaining, but it also played an essential role in boosting the morale of the troops and as well as the spirits of those at home.
The band was made up of talented musicians who performed a variety of music styles, including classical, jazz, and popular songs of the time. They traveled throughout the United States and even performed for President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Overall, the music of the Marine Corps Women's Reserve Band was an essential part of their service and helped to inspire and uplift those around them.
Breaking Barriers & Making Music
Jill M. Sullivan's scholarship on women's bands in America and their role in WWII sheds light on the significance of female musicians during the war. The Marine Corps Women's Reserve Band was one such group of women who played an instrumental role in boosting morale.
The band consisted of talented female musicians who were trained to play a variety of instruments, including brass, woodwind, and percussion. Through their performances, they challenged gender norms and proved that women could excel in traditionally male-dominated fields. The Marine Corps Women's Reserve Band was a testament to the strength and resilience of women during a time of great adversity.
Eleanor and her best friend Grace having fun at in Dallas while touring with the Hormel Girls. Eleanor Jones Collection, UWEC McIntyre Library Special Collections and Archives.”
Song of Success
The women of the MCWRB were incredibly influential during their service; they represented the power of women in the workplace and acted as a symbol for change in social norms throughout the United States. Eleanor and her bandmates were among the first women to serve in the military, serving in place of the men’s band so they could support the battle on the front lines.
These women were revered across the nation for their dedication to their duties: entertaining the troops and increasing support on the home front. Eleanor’s position in the MCWRB allowed her to pursue a job working as a Hormel Girl, selling spam after WWII, where she continued to inspire women to enter the workplace.