It reaches into every community of our land.

Beneath the flag of the Red Cross we are a united people.

Its greatest strength lies in the fact that it belongs to the people.

When catastrophe strikes, the Red Cross moves with the precision of a well-trained army to bring order out of chaos.

I am speaking to you tonight not about affairs of state, but about that good friend of humanity--the Red Cross.

This order shall become effective as of July 1, 1947, and shall be published in the Federal Register.

This order shall become effective as of September 1, 1947.

Here, I know, our American way of working together toward peace and prosperity will bring results we can all enjoy.

We have a national responsibility to assure that decent housing is available to all our people.

I bring you greetings from your fellow Americans, who watch with constant interest your efforts to meet problems which are familiar to them, too.

In conclusion, the program of action I have recommended is designed to meet the immediate housing needs of the Nation and at the same time to lay a sound basis for the years ahead.

In addition, careful safeguards should be provided against inflationary impacts.

The vigorous program of research to develop new building materials and more efficient building methods, on which the building industry has made an encouraging start, can be aided by the Government, particularly through such research agencies as the Bureau of Standards and the Forest Products Laboratory.

To achieve an increased volume of construction in 1948, and a higher proportion of rental housing, the Government should continue its financial aids, with appropriate modifications, and should assist in the expansion and proper distribution of the supply of building materials.

The expansion of housing production is necessary in this inflationary period, just as it is necessary to expand the production of other articles in short supply which are vitally needed by our people.

I am very happy to be here today to have this opportunity to visit St. Croix and to see for myself what this part of our American family is doing to meet our common problems.

The recent declines in certain prices in the commodity markets cannot be regarded as a valid reason for failing to continue and strengthen rent control.

We must all be ready with enterprise and courage to make the most of these new developments, and through them to reach the higher standard of living we all strive for.