The Lincoln Times

Volunteer Work

Calling upon all Red Cross volunteers to continue on the job, C. Rhyne Little, chairman of the Lincoln County Red Cross Chapter, today stated that the end of hostilities with Japan means no let-up in local Red Cross activities.

"The nature of some of our activities may change," he said, "but there will be important work to do."

Coincidentally with Mr. Little's statement, National Red Cross Chairman Basil O'Connor issued the following from Washington:

"Although actual hostilities have ceased, thanks to Providential grace, the American Red Cross faces world-wide tasks. We must continue to serve our armed forces overseas for as long as the need exists. Red Cross services to hospitalized servicemen and veterans must be stepped up to keep pace demands. Our chapters must be prepared for all emergencies, such as disaster, and must build up and strengthen their peace-time programs."

This brief outline of national Red Cross policy, Mr. Little asserted means no relaxing of the local chapter's efforts. In fact, many of the organization's services will gradually expand, he pointed out.

"In the years which lie ahead, veterans' claims upon the government will increase," Mr. Little said. "The Red Cross is one of the several agencies authorized by the government to handle such claims for hospitalization, pensions and other legal benefits. Assistance to families of veterans, as well as those of servicemen, will also claim a large share of Red Cross effort.

"At present the Red Cross is calling for 3,000 medical, social and hospital recreation workers to carry on its program among the wounded and hospitalized. And until our boys are brought home from abroad, the American Red Cross will be active in many foreign lands."

Chapter activities must be continued with renewed vigor. Mr. Little asserted. The civilian blood donor program under which Red Cross chapters may recruit volunteer blood donors for recognized local and regional medical agencies gives promise of the same far-reaching benefits as the program conducted for the armed forces, he said. While instruction in nutrition, first aid, water safety, accident prevention and home nursing offers other outlets of service that are of extreme importance to our local and national welfare.

Mr. Little called attention to the fact that a special committee, composed of doctors and others prominent in the field of public health had recently completed a study of possible postwar activities in which the Red Cross might engage. The civilian blood donor service is an outgrowth of this study and other recommendations of the committee are now under consideration.