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Released 14 May 2009
A Brief History of National Salvation Army Week
May 11 - 17
"Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of human brotherhood. In time of war, the men and women of this organization have brought to those serving their country far from home, friendliness and warm concern. In the quieter days of peace, their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans. giving freely of themselves, the men and women of The Salvation Army have won the respect of us all."
- President Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953 - 1961)
For over 75 years, from 1880 to 1954, The Salvation Army in the United States grew into a strong force for good in the lives of Americans everywhere. They transformed from small bands of uniformed men and women calling out to the tired, the poor, the huddled masses of this growing country to a large group with the capacity to enable change.
It is this transformation that the Eighty-third congress of the United States recognized. That year they declared, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed, the week of November 28 to December 4, 1954 to be the first National Salvation Army Week.
The dates have changed, but the mission of this Army remains the same:
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.