Hunton Life Saving And First Aid Crew

Alexander A. Terrell organized the Hunton Life Saving and First Aid Crew in Dec. 1941, shortly after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Reputed to have been the first all-black volunteer rescue squad in the United States, it was originally headquartered in the William A. Hunton branch YMCA. On call 24 hours a day, members responded to medical emergencies using their own vehicles before they acquired an ambulance. The crew also provided safety and first-aid training in the community. In March 1956, the Women's Auxiliary of Hunton Life Saving was organized. The crew moved to new headquarters several blocks northwest in 1964 and suspended operations in July 1987.

Roanoke, Virginia · United States