The Northwest Enterprise

Army Engineers Need
Skilled Negro Workers

A special call for skilled Negro construction workers to volunteer for service with the Army Engineers was issued this week by Lieutenant Colonel Ralph A. Tudor, U. S. District Engineer, Portland.

"The Corps of Engineers is activating a large number of highly specialized Negro airdrome construction battalions," Colonel Tudor stated. These organizations require specialists who have had experience in all types of construction work, particularly those having to do with the operation and maintenance of highway construction machinery, but the list includes a large number of other skilled trades such as carpenters, construction foremen, electricians, demolition men, et al."

Colonel Tudor made public a letter written under the date of July 16, 1943, to the chief of engineers by headquarters of the Army Air Forces which quoted Brigadier General O. S. Godfrey, chief air engineer, as stating:

"I feel that the district and division engineers are to be complimented for the splendid job they have done in the selection and procurement
of construction specialist personnel. We are trying to carry on by granting these men early promotions in recognition of their great value to the corps. I trust that our continuing efforts will bring an increasing number of these fine construction men into the military service of the corps of engineers.

I have only one suggestion to offer in this continuing program, that greatest stress be placed on the recruitment of qualified Negro inductees. We have a large number of colored units. The need is greater than in white units and I realize the recruiting field is very limited.

A representative of the Portland district engineer will interview applicants for voluntary induction in the Corps of Engineers at 625 Pittock block to determine their technical qualifications. Upon approval the men will be given a letter of assignment which earmarks them for an Engineer regiment where their services are most needed.

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