Millions of people were disturbed and suffered through the First World War. The trouble that many very young soldiers found themselves in was both of a physical and mental nature.
The Salvation Army members recognized that help was needed for the soldiers, even those who were on the front lines. The soldiers needed spiritual, personal and material help and encouragement in a desperate situation. The situation was such that they were often totally at a loss in the midst of disaster.
Doughnut Girls
When America entered the hostilities in April 1917, Evangeline Booth (USA National Commander) placed the entire Salvation Army on a war-service basis. Hostels and service centres were established adjacent to military camps and when the American Expeditionary Force (A.E.F.) went to France, Lt-Colonel William Barker was dispatched to see how the Army could best serve them.
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The Argonne Forest
The war front ran through the Argonne Forest near Verdun where the Germans and French fought bitter battles. The Americans rushed to help the French troops.
Various postcards show pictures of Salvationists at work in the Argonne Forest on the front line of the war.
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The Salvation Army during World War II
During World War II, The Salvation Army worked very hard to alleviate hardship and suffering. The Salvationists were always among the helpers on the front line, but also worked hard behind the scenes.
In The Salvation Army Museum in Basel one can find many examples and testimonials for the efforts of the courageous men and women. In attempting to show God's love these courageous men and women placed themselves in great danger.
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Being on the Résistance's Side
A Salvation Army officer in France, Georges Flandre, left traces of a dedicated, uncompromising servant of God. During the Nazi era he stood up for justice, peace and brotherhood. Inspired by Christ's example, his testimony has encouraged many people to remain faithful, until death, with an undivided heart.
When the young Flandre came into contact with The Salvation Army, he was a dedicated member of the Labour Party. In the first Salvation Army meetings he attended, he not only became aware of the guilt of humankind, but also of his own sin. It became clear to him that the regeneration of others would be possible only through his own renewed personality: First he himself had to be free, cleansed and changed.
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