[Broadcast over radio and television at 6 p.m.]
AS PRESIDENT of the United States and in accordance with
custom I have designated the month of March as Red Cross Month, and as
Honorary Chairman of the Red Cross I do want to ask the support of all
of you for this most important drive.
The Red Cross has been chartered
by the Congress to serve the people. It has come to the aid of our neighbors
when they have been struck by hurricanes. It aids our sons or brothers
who may be in the service. It helps through its blood banks hundreds and
even thousands of Americans who might otherwise have lost their lives if
it had not been for the vigilance and the work of the Red Cross.
The Red Cross belongs to all
Americans and I hope that all Americans will participate in supporting
it this month. Over two million volunteers will be crossing the country
in search of your support either through the United Fund itself or through
the Red Cross drive.
This is a traditional work in
which all of us have participated throughout all of our lives. It deserves
our support in future months. The responsibilities placed upon it by our
Government, by nature, by our hospitals, by our needs are great. I hope
that all Americans will participate in supporting this year in March the
Red Cross.