World War I 100 Years Ago: May 6-12

From The Indianapolis News, Saturday, May 6, 1916:  Sixteen local men have subscribed $1,500 (2015:  $32,961) to the American Ambulance Corps for purchasing, equipping, and maintaining an American automobile ambulance for use on the Western Front battlefields. Named the Indianapolis, the ambulance will soon be shipped from New York City to France where a volunteer American driver will man it. The sum subscribed is expected to keep it in operation for a six month period. One of the contributors said, “We are hoping that we have set an example for other Indianapolis people…who will feel inclined to contribute money with which to employ nurses and pay hospital and other expenses in connection with relief work in France.” The anonymous donors expect to receive frequent reports on the ambulance and its work that will be sent to local newspapers for publication.