Civil Defense

Roosevelt created the Office of Civilian Defense to protect the United States against foreign attack. Almost 5,400 Outagamie County residents participated in the volunteer program. They acted as air raid wardens, auxiliary police, rescue workers, and nurses' aides. Citizens prepared themselves to spot enemy aircraft, fight fires, and administer first aid in case of emergency.

The United States remained largely unaffected by foreign invasion during the war. Japanese submarines shelled a few ships on the West Coast and sent a small number of balloon bombs into the Pacific Northwest.

Little Oscar's First Raid written by Lydia Mead, 1942
Loan from Don Schwandt

Over 850 air raid wardens worked in Outagamie County. They watched the skies for enemy aircraft. The community conducted several air raid tests, including practice blackouts. The above book shows how children participated in preparedness.

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Civil Defense auxiliary police helmet,
circa 1943
Loan from Don Schwandt

Almost 660 auxiliary police officers worked in Outagamie County. Many wore metal head protection like the helmet above. They assisted regular police in the enforcement of laws related to emergency control. Officers could be asked to guard bridges, docks, and factories or stand watch against looting during an air raid.