FO371-27622 — Page 60

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CA

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 de barkation 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.

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