by Ezabelle Janssen, Senior Staff Writer
BILOXI (GG) — History walked through the doors of Beau Rivage dressed in red with a warm smile, a lifetime of stories, and a simple piece of advice: “Always follow your heart.”
As part of Beau Rivage Resort & Casino’s America in Biloxi’s 250 celebration, 102-year-old Delphine Klaput, one of America’s original Rosie the Riveters, shared her remarkable story with the public inside the MGM Golf and LUX Lounge on Wednesday, July 8th.
Before Rosie the Riveter became an American icon, Klaput was a young woman from Pennsylvania. During World War II, she left home to work at the Glenn L. Martin aircraft factory in Baltimore, Maryland, while thousands of men fought overseas. Decades later, Klaput’s service continues to be recognized. In 2024, she and 27 fellow original Rosies in Washington, D.C., received the Congressional Gold Medal.
Yet despite the recognition, Klaput remains as humble as ever.
When asked what it feels like, after so many years, to draw still crowds inspired by her life, she paused with gratitude. “It’s just heart-warming,” she said. “It’s more than I can say. Never in a million years did I ever think that I would be doing this.”
The Mississippi Gulf Coast also holds a special place in Klaput’s story.
After marrying her husband, George, in October 1944, the couple’s military journey eventually brought them to Biloxi for training before relocating to Greenville as World War II drew to a close.
Returning decades later, Klaput was overwhelmed by how much the Coast had transformed. “When I came in here, I just could not believe what I saw,” she said. “It is so beautiful. When I was here, I remember some houses and railroad tracks. They told me I was going to be surprised. Believe me, I was more than surprised. It’s gorgeous, lovely.”
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, Klaput reflected on what the milestone means to her.
“I’ve always been proud of what I did,” she said. “I really don’t broadcast it or anything. The only time I talk about it is when I’m in my Rosie clothes, but this is just overwhelming. Just overwhelming.”
Throughout the afternoon, men and women intently listened to Klaput’s memories, her stories carrying the weight of history.
But her message was beautifully simple: “Always follow your heart.”
(Photos by Ezabelle Janssen/The Gazebo Gazette)
