3
53
This was a rare
The service rendered by the United States Army in this
emergency adds another chapter to the long and inspiring record of service rendered by our armed forces to alleviate the lot of civilian populations in time of emergency. instance of service, perhaps the only one of its kind on record, when other nationals sought temporary refuge on American territory because of threat of war in the areas from which they came.
This report would not be complete without mention of Major General Henry C. Pratt, Commanding General of Fort William
McKinley, and Major James D. Carter, Major William M. Tow, and
other officers who assisted him. These officers spent long hours, under trying conditions, directing the debarkation of the evacuees and their settlement in the quarters provided at Fort
William McKinley. The Red Cross has received from the women, and even from some of the children, many expressions of appre- ciation and gratitude. The children regarded the time spent at the Post as an adventure and a happy experience. Mention should
also be made of the soldiers for their unfailing courtesy and
kindliness.
From a careful observation and check-up by the Red Cross Health and Hospitalization Section, and by the large force of nurses stationed at McKinley, there was a very definite improve- ment in health, especially the children. The food provided was well balanced and carefully selected. The visitors embarked, after their sojourn at the Post, in good health and well prepared for their journey to Australia.