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KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii - For more than 130 years, the men and women of the American Red Cross have responded to challenges both at home and abroad, but when was March recognized as Red Cross Month, and why?
For those who were unaware of the Red Cross’ long-standing relationship with the White House, it dates back to the presidency of Woodrow Wilson. In 1913, President Wilson agreed to serve as the ceremonial president of the Red Cross leadership, forming a tradition that is continued even today, where the standing president of the United States serves as honorary chairman of the American Red Cross.
“During Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross (recognizes) the country’s everyday heroes - (those) who reach out to help people in need,” according to the American Red Cross website. “These are people who help disaster victims on the road to recovery, (donate) blood to hospital patients and take classes to assist someone having a heart attack or drowning.”
Responding to nearly 70,000 disasters every year, the Red Cross also provides 24-hour support to members of the military, veterans and their families around the world. The Red Cross also collects and distributes nearly 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply and trains millions of people in first aid, water safety and many other life-saving skills and techniques.
“In times of conflict and great tragedy, they deliver humanitarian relief, save lives and offer hope for a brighter tomorrow,” President Barack Obama said in his proclamation regarding American Red Cross Month. “Their service has meant so much to so many, and it reflects a fundamental American truth: We look out for one another and we do not leave anyone behind. This month, we renew our sense of common purpose and honor all those whose sacrifices have made our society more prepared, resilient and united.”
The Red Cross is always seeking volunteers, CPR instructors and office workers. For those interested in volunteering, donating or signing up for a class, visit redcross.org/Hawaii for more information.
| Date Taken: | 03.25.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 03.27.2015 19:34 |
| Story ID: | 158423 |
| Location: | KANEOHE BAY, HI, US |
| Web Views: | 24 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, American Red Cross’ history celebrated this month, by Cpl Harley Thomas, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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