Jewish Contributions to American Red Cross Lauded by New Head of Organization

Acknowledging the great contributions of American Jewry to Red Cross accomplishments, Basil O’Connor, newly appointed chairman of the American Red Cross, today expressed his deep appreciation for the work done, at the same time calling upon the Jewish people the country over for a continuation of their efforts on behalf of the Red Cross. Mr. O’Connor, who is a member of the executive committee of the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and who succeeds the late Norman H. Davis as Red Cross chairman, arrived in Washington to take up his new humanitarian duties.

“Reports from every part of the country which I have recently examined all indicate the widespread and valuable participation of Jewish organizations and individuals in Red Cross work,” he declared. “It is with utmost gratification that I have reviewed these reports. The contributions which the Jewish people have made through the Red Cross to humanity, the single-minded purpose with which they have approached the task of relieving distress and suffering, and the energy which they have displayed at all times, form an outstanding and glorious record.

“The American Red Cross is fully aware of the debt which it owes to these men and women, both as individuals and groups, and is grateful indeed for the splendid work they are doing. They have contributed to the successful accomplishment of Red Cross tasks, and I sincerely hope these efforts will be continued without let-up.”