The “Hello Girls:” Switchboard Soldiers of World War One

The “Hello Girls” were American women who served as telephone operators for the United States Army during World War I. They played a crucial role in the war effort by ensuring effective communication between the front lines and the command centers, which was essential for coordinating movements and supplies.

Origins and Recruitment

When the U.S. entered WWI in 1917, General John J. Pershing recognized a great need for skilled telephone operators. At the time, telephone communication was a relatively new technology, and it was essential for coordinating military operations. However, the Army did not have enough trained operators, and those available were men needed for combat roles.

The U.S. Army Signal Corps decided to recruit female telephone operators, as women were already performing similar roles in civilian life. These women had to be bilingual in English and French to facilitate communication with the French military and civilians. Over 7,000 women applied, but only about 450 were selected and trained for service overseas. Two Utahns were part of this group: Emelia Lumpert and Mary Marshall.

Service and Duties

The “Hello Girls,” as they came to be known, were sworn into the U.S. Army Signal Corps. They wore uniforms and were subject to Army regulations, although they were officially designated as civilian employees. They served in various locations in France, operating telephone switchboards that were crucial for the command and control of American forces.

Their work involved long hours under stressful conditions, often close to the front lines. They handled sensitive information and played a key role in the success of numerous military operations, including the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Their efficiency and skill earned them the respect of their male counterparts and commanding officers.

Post-War Recognition

Despite their significant contributions, the Hello Girls faced a long battle for recognition after the war. Initially, they were not granted veteran status or benefits because they were considered civilians. It wasn’t until 1977, after years of lobbying and advocacy, that Congress passed legislation recognizing the Hello Girls as veterans of the United States Army. They were finally awarded the benefits and honors due to them for their service.

Legacy

The story of the Hello Girls highlights the changing roles of women in the military and society. Their service during World War I set a precedent for future generations of women in the armed forces. Today, they are celebrated as pioneers who broke gender barriers and served their country with distinction.

The Hello Girls’ contribution to the war effort and their subsequent fight for recognition underscores the evolving understanding and appreciation of women’s roles in the military. Their legacy is a testament to their courage, skill, and determination.

4th Grade Social Studies Standard 4.4.6: Use case studies to explain how national or global events between 1896–1999 (for example, World War I, the Spanish Flu Epidemic, the Great Depression, World War II, Japanese American Incarceration, the Cold War, civil rights movements, Americans with Disabilities Act) had an impact in their local communities and state. 

UT Studies Standard 3.2: Students will use primary sources and/or oral histories to analyze the impact of a national/global event such as World War I, the Spanish flu epidemic, the Great Depression, World War II, and Japanese American internment on an individual or community in Utah. (history)

UT Studies Standard 3.3: Students will describe the effects of events, movements, and innovations on Utah’s economic development, such as the organized labor movement, farming and industrial improvements, the World Wars, and the Great Depression. (economics)

1. Students will examine the role of women in World War I, specifically focusing on the “Hello Girls,” their duties, and the challenges they faced.
2. Discuss the role of the “Hello Girls” in World War 1 and their importance in military communications.
3. Analyze the contribution of Emelia Lumpert and Mary Marshall to the war effort.
4. Understand the challenges these women faced and their subsequent struggle for recognition.

Introduction (5-10 minutes):

• Using the provided PowerPoint, share the story of Emelia Lumpert and Mary Marshall and the “Hello Girls.”
• Show images of switchboard operators and a map of Europe during WWI.

Class Discussion (15-25 minutes):

• Discuss the significance of the “Hello Girls” in the war effort and the importance of language skills in global conflicts.
• Discuss why their contributions were not immediately recognized.
• Discuss how communication technology has evolved since WWI. 

Activity (25-45 minutes):

• Participate in the Hello Girls Congressional Gold Medal letter writing campaign, here or here.
• Optional: Have students watch a video clip showing a telephone switchboard in operation to help facilitate discussion about how communication technology has evolved overtime.

These questions along with those on the student worksheet can be used while teachers/class are reading about the Hello Girls to help students follow along and stay engaged. 

1. Why were the “Hello Girls” necessary for the war effort?
2. What specific contributions did Emelia Lumpert and Mary Marshall make?
3. How were the women of the Army Signal Corps treated and recognized during and after the war?

Have students compose a letter to their Senator or Representative asking them to support legislation awarding the Hello Girls the Congressional Gold Medal letter. Find campaigns here or here. Students should create a persuasive argument using evidence from the lesson to show the Hello Girls’ importance.