Mary Glasgow did not expect to enjoy it. But the first aid lectures inspired her. She ‘swotted’ on the bus home, studying bone structure and muscle groups. Her efforts paid off. At a first aid drill show, Mary’s team impressed the Queen, proving that Glasgow was ready to defend the Isles.
How did you become involved?
I was now the proud owner of a Red Cross Badge and a tin helmet with a red cross painted on the front of it. I kept the helmet on the bottom shelf of my locker – I got enough ribbing about the badge.” What did you do?“As a Red Cross Badge holder I came into action in air raids. They always occurred on my night shifts. In the early forties these lasted from about 9 p.m. until the early hours of the morning; maybe around 6 a.m. when the ALL CLEAR would be sounded. The raid would begin with an announcement over the tannoy. Air raid warning ‘orange’ and I think civilians would be making their way to the shelters at that point. Next would be air raid warning ‘red’. We would then be prepared to abandon our workplace. Air raid warning ‘scarlet’ meant ‘make your way to the shelters’. The shelters were at the rear of the factory. They were clean and comfortable and had toilets and facilities for makin g hot drinks. There was a look-out point where the warden could raise a roof-flap; a very heavy round door. I was allowed to look out very carefully. The drone and strange bumping noises could be heard. This was the Luftwaffe attacking the Clyde shipyards. I could see the whole north side of the river and the fires burning.” Any special memories?
|
FactsCivil Defence workers needed to have uniform and equipment that not only protected them but also meant they were easily identifiable. For many, this meant a lot more than just a tin helmet. ARP training courses taught people about the horrendous effects of gas attacks and how they could protect themselves against gas should it be used. Find out more about Civil defence equipment. FactsIn Scotland, the bodies carrying out the work of the Joint War Organisation were the Scottish Central Council Branch of the British Red Cross Society and the St. Andrew’s Ambulance Association. At the outbreak of war, these bodies began to issue their own appeals for funds in Scotland, but later they were given some of the money raised by the nation-wide Duke of Gloucester’s Red Cross and St. John Appeal. |