In all it does, service to humanity is its main objective as well as its sole reward.

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 September 1, 1947.

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

The acute shortage of rental housing makes it imperative to continue emergency rent control.

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

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

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

During 1947 nearly one million housing units were added to our housing supply.

I recommend that the Congress enact at the present session legislation directed toward five objectives.

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.

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…

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…

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.

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.

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.

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.