This iconic “Donut Dolly” uniform was worn by Midge Patty of Maryville, TN, as Unit Director of Red Cross Services for the 1st Infantry Division during her tour in Vietnam from 1966-1967. The light blue dresses made the American Red Cross (ARC) workers stand out amongst the soldiers on the front line. This was not the first, or last, conflict women from the ARC were deployed to assist the troops. Since World War I, women have courageously served side-by-side with the soldiers, providing much-needed relief and cheer during the boredom and horrors of war.
The Dollies of the 1st Infantry Division described their daily duties in the American Traveler, Vol. 27, No. 12, pages 4-5, as: “A day in Vietnam is awaking at 6:00 in the morning. Brushing our teeth out of a canteen. . . Getting in a helicopter and flying to the forward brigades. Meeting with the commanders of these brigades. Setting up schedules to meet with their men. Touring the area in an open jeep. Riding in a tank. Riding in an APC. Waving to the men. Taking pictures so we can send them home. Viewing an area where Charlie had hit the night before. Shaking our heads in disbelief. Talking to the men. Smiling. Waving. Returning to the 1st Infantry Division Headquarters by helicopter . . . Walking past the barbed wire. Walking past our bunker hoping we never have to use it. Walking to our patio that the men built for us as a surprise. Talking with the girls. Discussing the events of the day. Watching in silence the flares being shot off in the distance. Hearing the artillery firing. Being thankful that it is outgoing fire instead of incoming. Feeling secure because we are being protected by the finest group of men in the world . . .”