On Thursday 14 September 2023, the Northern Ireland War Memorial (NIWM) hosted the book launch of The American Red Cross in Northern Ireland during the Second World War, a Northern Ireland War Memorial publication by Clive Moore.

Invited guests in attendance included the High Sheriff of Belfast, John Kyle, along with former Special Envoy to the United States for Northern Ireland, Mr Trevor Ringland, and NIWM Trustee Mrs. Catherine Champion DL.

The publication highlights how the American Red Cross deployed 'Clubmobiles' across Northern Ireland to serve donuts and coffee to US service personnel during the Second World War. In reference to this, coffee, donuts and American beer was served and enjoyed at the launch. A special screening of the American Red Cross newsreel 'Over There' - The Yanks in Ireland (1942) also took place.

The American Red Cross in Northern Ireland during the Second World War is the latest book to be published by the Northern Ireland War Memorial, joining a series of Second World War publications including Overhead and Over Here by Ernie Cromie and Pim and Churchill's Map Room by John Potter. It is a succinct account of the history of the American Red Cross in Northern Ireland, focusing mainly on the Second World War, when an estimated 300,000 US service personnel passed through Northern Ireland.

About the publication:

After a brief outline of the organisations origins, the introductory narrative covers relief efforts by the American Red Cross to aid shipping losses in the North Channel during the First World War. The main body of the work covers the provision of welfare services for the United States Armed Forces based in Northern Ireland between 1942 and 1945, including the establishment of the organisation's first service club in the UK in Derry/Londonderry, and describes their subsequent operations, evolution and expansion, until eventually operating at over 40 sites in Northern Ireland. The range of welfare activities provided for the United States Armed Forces by the American Red Cross is discussed, and aspects of their working relationship between them and the military is considered. Further insight into their operations comes from their interactions with the local community, local staff, notable visitors, government, and organisations such as the Women's Voluntary Service (WVS).

The source material for the narrative of the book is primary source material held in the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), College Park, Maryland and the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland. In addition, and to a lesser extent, further sources include The National Archives Kew; The Air Force Historical Research Agency, Maxwell AFB; select period publications, newspapers and a number of individuals.

The book is richly illustrated with photographs, many of which have never been seen before, unearthed by the author Clive Moore through numerous research trips to the US and expertly designed by John and Robyn McMillan.

The American Red Cross in Northern Ireland during the Second World War is available to purchase from the Northern Ireland War Memorial for £10. Alternatively, you can purchase it online via the museum’s Amazon account.