CHAPTER XI
THE DISREGARD OF SELF
I feel almost as if the next matter under discussion should have not only a special chapter devoted to it but be printed in large type and in distinctive ink, for I do not believe that anything so thoroughly gave evidence of the utter disregard of self in the Legion as did the flat refusal of the delegates to tolerate what has been called in some quarters, the "Pay Grab."
The minutes read:
Secretary Wood (Reading): "ADDITIONAL PAY FOR ENLISTED MEN."
"Whereas, the financial sacrifice of the enlisted persons in the military and naval service of the United States in the world war was altogether in excess of that of any other class of our citizenship, and
"Whereas, the great majority of these persons left lucrative employment upon joining the colors, and
"Whereas, this direct financial sacrifice was made at a time when men, many of them aliens who thrived in safety at home, were enjoying the advantages of an exceptionally high war wage, and
"Whereas, the service which involved this sacrifice was a Federal service in defense of our national honor and national security, therefore be it