Clyde McDowell Myres: Civilian and Reconstruction Aide

Area of Science:

• History of Medicine
• Occupational Therapy
• Military Health

Background:

• World War I created unprecedented needs for rehabilitation.
• Women served as crucial support personnel, initially as Civilian Aides.
• Early occupational therapy efforts were established in military settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the life history and contributions of Clyde McDowell Myres.
• To detail the establishment of occupational therapy services in a World War I Base Hospital.
• To trace the evolution of terminology from Civilian Aide to Reconstruction Aide.

Main Methods:

• Historical documentation of Clyde McDowell Myres's career.
• Analysis of the establishment and operation of occupational therapy services at Base Hospital 117.
• Review of contemporary terminology and roles for women in military service.

Main Results:

• Clyde McDowell Myres and three colleagues established an occupational therapy department in France.
• They served US Army patients from June 1918 to April 1919.
• The designation "Civilian Aide" was used until the arrival of orthopedic personnel led to the term "Reconstruction Aide".

Conclusions:

• Clyde McDowell Myres was a key figure in the early development of occupational therapy.
• The experiences of these women highlighted the need for formal roles in military rehabilitation.
• The transition from Civilian Aide to Reconstruction Aide reflects the growing recognition of these services.