Voluntary Aid Detachments

Voluntary Aid Detachments (VADs) were groups of trained civilians, often women, who volunteered to provide medical and logistical support during times of war, particularly in World War I and II. They assisted in hospitals, cared for wounded soldiers, and helped with nursing and administrative duties, relieving professional medical staff and improving patient care. VADs were organized by charitable and governmental institutions to bolster healthcare services when professional medical personnel were stretched thin. Their work was crucial in saving lives and maintaining healthcare efforts during wartime emergencies.