Thomas J. Watson Sr.'s and IBM's Post-World War II Efforts
Date Published: January 1, 2024
Thomas J. Watson Sr.'s and IBM's Post-World War II Efforts
The IBM Endicott World War II Memorial design was chosen by vote of the employees in November of 1946.

​The employees then provided the necessary funds through voluntary contributions.
IBM Endicott Memorial Day
A special committee of employees was in charge of the construction and dedication of the memorial.
During World War II, 114 men and one woman from IBM made the supreme sacrifice in the service of their country. These men and women came from across the country. This is Poughkeepsie's Memorial Day celebration.​
IBM Poughkeepsie Memorial Day
This website provides the book that was handed out at the dedication in Poughkeepsie, New York on September 27, 1947 remembering the six men who died from this site.
With the explosion of two atomic bombs, World War II came to an unexpectedly sudden halt. Many industrialists were not ready for this quick end. Promises had been made to the returning veterans.
Rehiring World War II Veterans
This article is intended to highlight a few of the factors that made it difficult for Tom Watson Sr. to fulfill his “guarantee” of jobs to “all” returning veterans. It was difficult because he and other industrialists felt an ethical—not a legal—obligation to his returning servicemen.

​Despite the obstacles the IBM corporation kept its promise.
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