Kochendoerfer, One Women's World War II

Abstract

Kochendoerfer's work is an intriguing account of her wartime experiences and observations between 1943 and 1947, first as a member of the Women's Anny Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) and then as key staff officer in the American Red Cross (ARC). After joining the ARC, Kochendoerfer became snared in the swirl of events from the preparation for D-Day in England to following the advance of allied forces eastward on the continent and finally witnessing the ultimate defeat and occupation of Germany. Furthermore, as the mission of the Red Cross expanded during the war from one of merely medical support to that of providing recreational services, Kochendoerfer obtained a position as an ARC director working closely with military officials to ensure soldiers had top-notch club facilities and outlets for morale and welfare activities.