Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia on the steps of City Hall with attorney Allen Wardwell, Chairman of the Greater New York Campaign of Russian War Relief, Inc. launching Russian War Relief Week, June 20, 1942.

In opening the campaign, the Mayor urged supporters and WNYC listeners to attend a mass rally at Madison Square Garden on June 22 in tribute to the Russian Army for "holding the line while we get ready." La Guardia praised the courage and valor of the Soviet forces and people fighting the Nazis and he donated $50 to the national campaign to raise $6 million for the purchase of medical supplies. Wardwell told listeners $2 million in pledges had already been received and that it was critical to get supplies to our allies. Behind them are a traditional Russian musical ensemble, which performed for the audience.