wfn.org | AFSC: CPS Historical Marker

[RByler@afsc.org]

For Immediate Release
November 11, 1996
Contact:  J.Ron Byler (215/241-7060)
or Aishah Shahidah Simmons (215/241-7056)

Please note:  Text of historical marker and photo are available.

Historical Marker Commemorates Those Who Served in Civilian Public Service

PHILADELPHIA =96 A Pennsylvania historical marker recently erected in
Philadelphia recognizes the conscientious objectors to war who served in
Civilian Public Service (CPS) during World War II.  More than 12,000
Mennonites, Quakers, Brethren, Methodists and others served in CPS after the
1940 draft until 1947.
	About fifteen percent of those serving in non-military occupations
throughout the United States were from Pennsylvania, according to the
Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.  Says the marker in part,
"Under the leadership of Mennonite, Quaker, and Church of the Brethren
agencies, (these volunteers) were engaged in mental health care and medical
experiments, in forestry and on dairy farms, and in other important civic
projects."
	The historical marker was unveiled on October 26 at the Friends Center,
1501 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, in a dedication service planned by the
American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), one of the agencies involved in
the conception and administration of the Civilian Public Service program.
More than 35 participants and their spouses representing Quakers,
Mennonites, Brethren, Methodists and Catholics attended the event.
	For more information, contact J.Ron Byler, director of media relations for
the AFSC, at 215/241-7060.
-- 30 --
The American Friends Service Committee is a Quaker organization which
includes people of various faiths who are committed to social justice, peace
and humanitarian service.  Its work is based on the Quaker belief in the
worth of every person, and faith in the power of love to overcome violence
and injustice.
J.Ron Byler
Director of Media Relations
American Friends Service Committee
PH: 215/241-7060
FAX: 215/241-7275
E-MAIL: RByler@afsc.org
http://www.afsc.org