latviski
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to consider themselves primarily as military personnel and as such seemed to feel more at home with the Army than with their UNRRA colleagues, most of whom were much older than they were.
Major Austin V. Clifford of Military Government Detachment E4 at Kassel, the DP Officer for Kurchessen, who was probably the best DP officer at that level in the American Zone, had a high opinion of the MMLA team, and Captain Marye, in the cablegram mentioned above, said ".....MMLA SPLENDID VERY RESOURCEFUL AND MOST COOPERATIVE WITH DPS AND MILT GOVT......" The reaction of most military inspectors to the team and the camp was the same as that of General Keyes↗ who wrote the following letter of commendation:
"1. As a result of my inspection of the Junker's DP camp on
the 2nd. of November 1945, I wish to commend you and your
staff for the enterprise and energy you have displayed in
organizing, equipping, and supervising the activities of
your camp.
2. The results of your achievements are evidenced by the
cheerful, clean and healthy appearance of the people
in your camp.
3. I wish to express my gratitude for the kindnesses you
have shown me during my visit there. The Latvian Sakta
is a beautiful ornament and the sentiment expressed by it
is greatly treasured by me. Please thank the choir for
their fine rendition not only of their own native songs
but also of the Star Spangled Banner."
Departure of the MMLA Team
In early December, word was received from UNRRA H.Q. at 7th. Army H.Q., Heidelberg, that the MMLA girls should return to Paris for demobilization from the French Army and reengagement by UNRRA. Mrs. Grace, Personnel Officer, ordered them to go two at a time so the work of the team could be carried on, and the first two left with requests that they be reassigned to the Western Military District.
Shortly after their departure, the local UNRRA Field Supervisor was informed of an unfavourable report from a military inspector
concerning
↗