At the time of its organization the corps pledged its undivided effort to the service of the volunteers of the State of Washington during the war between the United States and Spain. That emergency having happily ended in victory and peace, the society feels that its special work is over. To those of its members who can still devote time and strength to patriotic and humane effort, the president and the executive board cordially suggest that they enroll themselves as members of the Tacoma Red Cross society organized for permanent effort in the broad field of the nation’s and the world’s need, and when the aid and support that they can give will result in practical benefit to any cause to which it is applied.
In closing the work of this organization the officers and executive board wish to make a public report of what has been accomplished during the four months of its existence. In absolute harmony the society has worked together, members and officers alike. The following record, taken from the secretary’s last report, speaks for itself in proof of the patriotic energy which has inspired its labors. Since June 1 the Emergency Corps of the State of Washington has distributed for the use of state volunteers: Flannel abdominal bandages, towels, suits of pajamas, night shirts, suits balbriggan underwear, hospital pads and shirts, hospital pillow cases, and linen handkerchiefs.
In closing the work of the organization the officers and executive board desire to express their appreciation of the aid and sympathy extended them by the public and especially by the merchants of Tacoma, whose donations of money and material assisted so largely in what has been accomplished. To the Tacoma Chamber of Commerce they are greatly indebted for the use of a room for headquarters and for work and storage rooms. To the Northern Pacific Express Company, and to the Northern Pacific Steamship Company, they owe many thanks for aid and courtesy. It is impossible in this short summary to enumerate every instance of cordial sympathy and support which has cheered and aided the Emergency Corps in its labors; from all sides encouragement came and substantial help.
In dissolving the bond between officers and members now remains in each heart a cordial memory of mutual interest and sympathy, respect and confidence.
To the press of Tacoma the Emergency Corps acknowledges its many obligations. To the press and citizens of the State at large it is also indebted for much of its power of usefulness and would express an earnest appreciation and gratitude. The following letter was received from Captain Sturges, of Company C, stationed at the Presidio, San Francisco:
To the Ladies of the Washington Emergency Corps, Tacoma, Washington:
It is with a feeling of almost inexpressible gratitude that the officers and members of Company C, First Washington Volunteer Infantry, try to express to you their warmest and most lasting thanks for your kind and very useful donations and your expressions of sympathy and interest. The many kindnesses of their Emergency Corps have done much to help the soldiers more easily to bear their many hardships and to more enjoy their few comforts, knowing that kind hearts are interested in their welfare.
We unite in wishing you all the reward that your noble work so justly merits.
Very thankfully yours,
E.C. Sturges,
Captain Commanding.