February 24, 1943

WOODEN ARMY GUARDS CONGRESS

Rooftop Discovery by Member

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The soldiers and artillery manning the rooftops to protect Congress are mere wood and cloth. This revelation was made today by Representative Harold D. Cooley of North Carolina and later confirmed by Representative George H. Bender of Ohio and Associated Press photographer Henry Griffin. The War Department proffered an explanation that the use of dummy emplacements to confuse the enemy is a standard practice. Cooley made the revelation to Congress as a bill was under consideration for construction of naval shore defenses. He stated he hoped Congress would not be providing funding for “…painted ships upon painted oceans…” The representative also queried why he was not challenged as he snuck onto the roof in civilian clothes. He stated “…a dozen…” entrances are left unguarded.