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Red Cross Home to Kick Off of Greatest Generation Celebration
Written by
Lesly Hallman
, Staff Writer, RedCross.org
Friday, May 14, 2004 — The American Red Cross is taking part in a 100 day salute to the heroes of World War II in the Nation’s Capital during May and beyond to commemorate Memorial Day and the dedication of the World War II Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, DC.
At a press conference held May 13 at the museum of Red Cross National Headquarters, regional leaders gathered to announce “America Celebrates the Greatest Generation,” a tribute to the men and women who served during World War II. The celebration begins on Memorial Day with the dedication of the new World War II Memorial on the National Mall.
Washington D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams praised the Red Cross for its important work in the area. “The Red Cross is an important part of our city and (Red Cross Chapter CEO) Linda Mathes and the National Capitol Chapter have been wonderful partners,” said Williams during the press conference.
A Red Cross hospital worker in Italy scrapes thick mud from her shoes in 1943. Photographer: Ollie Atkins |
The announcement was held at Red Cross headquarters in part to honor the long standing efforts of the organization since World War II. A new exhibit, titled “Volunteering for Victory: The American Red Cross in World War II,” examines the extensive role the Red Cross played in serving the troops and the public during that time.
The Red Cross has several events planned during the WWII memorial dedication. The Museum and Visitor’s Center will serve as a lounge for special guests in transit from the memorial service at the National Cathedral to Dedication and Reunion Events on the National Mall on Saturday, May 29, 2004. On the Mall, Red Cross historians will participate in presentations with the Smithsonian covering the best methods for preserving era artifacts, and other volunteers will demonstrate bandage rolling, knitting, and ditty bag assembly for families visiting the WWII Reunion.
Veterans’ Services: Red Cross will provide veterans and Armed Forces Emergency Services (AFES) information. In addition, information about the legendary “charging for coffee and donuts” will be available along with the commemorative campaign-style buttons, which express the gratitude of the Red Cross to veterans and volunteers for serving their country during the Second World War.
Special museum exhibitions, film screenings, and restaurants throughout the area will showcase the impact of the World War II era on the United States. For example, the International Spy Museum will host an exhibit on the role of spies during the war, and restaurants around town will recreate recipes popularized during the time of rationed food supplies.
The war also had a huge impact on the American Red Cross in addition to the country as a whole. In early 1941 the government requested that the Red Cross begin a blood donor program to benefit troops in anticipation of joining the war. Later that year, the Red Cross quickly mobilized to support the troops after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Domestically, Red Cross volunteers supported families of military men and women, and began its role of serving as a medium between families and home and troops overseas. Internationally, Red Cross workers support troops as field directors, operating clubs and serving in military hospitals, and hospital ships and trains.
As a part of the celebration, hotels and restaurants around the Washington DC area will participate in specials commemorating the World War II era.
60 Years After WWII, Americans Knit Their Bit!
During World War II the American Red Cross launched nationwide, volunteer driven, knitting campaigns to supply soldiers and civilians with warm clothing. Everyone joined in the campaign -- men and women, young and old -- they all let their needles fly to keep their fellow Americans warm.
Now you can Knit Your Bit, just like thousands of patriotic volunteers did 60 years ago.
Visit RedCross.org the week of May 24th to buy your vintage WWII knitting kits -- including WWII era knitting pattern, yarn and needles -- as well as vintage WWII Red Cross T-shirts!
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