The Romance of the Red Triangle The story of the coming of the red triangle and the service rendered by the Y.M.C.A. to the sailors and soldiers of the British Empire

The opening chapters trace the humble beginnings of a modest group of volunteers who first set up recreation tents for soldiers in a Welsh seaside camp. Through vivid sketches and earnest anecdotes, listeners hear how the YMCA’s simple “Red Triangle” banner became a beacon of comfort, offering food, fellowship and a quiet place for weary men to gather. The narrative blends royal endorsements with on‑the‑ground observations, painting a picture of early 20th‑century military life before the great conflict erupted.

As the story moves into the early days of the war, the focus shifts to the rapid expansion of those makeshift havens across muddy front‑line trenches and distant outposts. From improvised canteens beneath shell‑scarred barns to warm tea served in frozen dugouts, the account shows how ordinary people transformed hardship into moments of humanity. Listeners will be drawn into a world where camaraderie, faith and practical ingenuity converged under the striking red emblem, leaving a lasting impression of the organization’s quiet, far‑reaching impact.