THE “KHAKI SHIRT”

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 179, 1 August 1932, Page 7

THE “KHAKI SHIRT”

AMERICAN ORGANISATION VETERAN EVICTION SEQUEL BONUS ARMY REFORMING WIDER MOVEMENT PLANNED By Telegraph—Press Association —Copyright} Received July 31, 5.5 p.m. WASHINGTON, July 29. As the disorganised units of the bonus army staggered out of Washington to-day, the erstwhile commander, Walter Waters, isued a militant appeal to all unemployed, as well as veterans, to join tho "Khaki Shirt” movement with the avowed purpose of "cleaning out the high places of Government,” apparently meaning Mr Hoover. He insisted that he would act strictly in accordance with American principles—that is the ballot box. However, the obvious Fascist-like nature of tho movement, although yet undeveloped, is causing some concern in Washington.

On the understanding that the Mayor of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, had previously invited the bonus army to establish headquarters, 1000 veterans are en route there, where Waters expects to start the organisation of Khaki Shirts. Later the Mayor said he only invited the leaders. However, several truck loads of veterans have already arrived, with indications that 1000 more will arrive in a few days. This will probably create another police problem.

Relief for the evicted women and children is presenting a serious problem. It was first announced that the Red Cross would send them to homes, but this was later denied. Meanwhile private charity is providing the children with the best possible. Some have left with the veterans for Johnstown. Congress Criticisms Repercussions of yesterday’s hostilities were quick to materialise. Mr Hoover, in a statement, defended the calling out of tho troops, while a canvas of the few Congressmen in the city revealed the general opinion that the movement was an untimely one. Senator Black of Alabama, severely criticised the President, particularly for tho night operations against the women and children. He hinted at a Congressional investigation. Tho New York Times understands that Mr Hoover desired to suspend operations early in the evening, but Generals McCarthur and Hurley persuaded him to allow the play of the campaign to be continued. Liberal elements throughout the nation have issued strong protests and the Communist organisation in New York has scheduled several demonstrations. The organised veterans’ associations, including the American Legion of Veterans of Foreign Wars ire apparently of divided opinion. Waters, in a statement, denounced the "monied interests of Wall Street” and called for universal support for the movement "and a return of Government to the masses.” Tho possibility of unemployed malcontents forming an organisation for political or perhaps even direct action, has been voiced in various quarters for some time, but Waters’ declaration is tho most definite manifestation of such a movement yet heard.