On the Home Front:

Coles County in World War II

VJ Parade 1945 

From 1941-1945, the United States participated in a worldwide war.  While Americans fought in 
Europe and the Pacific, the citizens of Coles County lent their support to the millions of soldiers 
overseas. Through the draft and volunteer activity, the County sent over 2,000 of its friends and
family to battle. It raised thousands of dollars through the selling and purchase of war stamps and 
bonds.  Men, women, and children collected paper and rubber in the many salvage drives that were 
held throughout the County. Ration books were passed out among residents, in order to save items 
that may assist in the war effort.  Victory gardens were planted to grow food for the soldiers abroad.  
The United Service Organization (U.S.O.) sponsored activities for soldiers that made their way 
through the County. Coles County was not oblivious to the actions and heartache on the other side of
the ocean. Even though they could not fight side by side with their fellow citizens, they performed a 
tremendous service to the men and women serving in World War II.
 
Click on the following links to learn a little more about what people did during the war years.
 
War Bonds and Stamps
Victory Gardens
Rationing
Children and the War Effort
Oral History Project
Bibliography
 
Site created by Kristin Brown, Eastern Illinois University