The World War Bonus Army During The Great Depression: A Story of Forgotten Sacrifice and Betrayal

In the depths of the Great Depression, when unemployment and poverty ravaged the nation, a group of forgotten heroes emerged from the shadows to demand their due compensation for their service to their country during the Great War.

The War Against the Vets: The World War I Bonus Army during the Great Depression

by John Nichols

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Language	:	English
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These men were the veterans of the World War Bonus Army, a diverse group of former soldiers, sailors, and Marines who had fought and sacrificed for their country in the trenches of Europe.

Their story is a largely forgotten chapter in American history, a tale of broken promises, betrayal, and the struggle for recognition and justice.

The Bonus Pledge

In 1924, Congress passed the Adjusted Service Certificate Act, which awarded every WWI veteran a "bonus" of $1,000, payable in 1945.

This pledge was a lifeline for many veterans who were struggling to find work and support their families during the Depression.

However, as the Depression worsened, Congress began to waver on its commitment to the bonus, fearing it would strain the already-stretched federal budget.

The March on Washington

In May 1932, a group of veterans from Oregon set out on a cross-country trek to Washington, D.C., to demand the immediate payment of their bonus.

As they marched, they were joined by thousands of other veterans from all over the country, forming what became known as the World War Bonus Army.

On July 28, 1932, the Bonus Army arrived in Washington, D.C., and set up camp in vacant buildings and on government land near the Capitol.

They were determined to stay until Congress passed legislation to pay their bonus.

The Government's Response

The government's response to the Bonus Army was swift and decisive.

President Herbert Hoover Free Downloaded the War Department to clear the veterans out of Washington, D.C.

On July 28, 1932, General Douglas MacArthur led a detachment of troops, including tanks and cavalry, to forcibly remove the veterans from their camp.

In the ensuing melee, two veterans were killed and hundreds more were injured.

The Bonus Army was dispersed, but their demands for compensation were not forgotten.

Legacy of the Bonus Army

The World War Bonus Army was a pivotal event in American history.

It exposed the deep divisions between the government and the veterans it had sent to fight in Europe.

It also highlighted the economic and social hardships that veterans faced in the aftermath of war.

The Bonus Army's legacy is one of forgotten sacrifice and betrayal.

Their story is a reminder that the fight for justice and recognition often requires great sacrifice and perseverance.

The World War Bonus Army was a group of forgotten heroes who fought for their country and their rights.

Their story is a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring our veterans and ensuring that they receive the support and recognition they deserve.

Their legacy is one of sacrifice, betrayal, and the ongoing struggle for justice.

Let us never forget the World War Bonus Army and the lessons their story teaches us.