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HEADQTO3?:
S OOIMIItCAIX^-.. 2Q&5 ;
T

Office of the Chief APO 887

Quartermaster

Quartermaster

Field Observation Eepoft .JTo. -9

U.- S. Equipment
r.

The purpose. of this Field Observation Eeport -is- to -give--' proper dissemination of information collected in this "Thd'at ev :i : regarding Quartermaster equipment, supply, activities,' and \u25a0' installations. Contained, in this report are experiences of ' personnel -of , all ranks and position's in the use of Quartermaster equipment,. Opinions,' suggestions, 'and recommendations /published herein do not. necessarily have the concurrence of this Office-; : \u25a0*' * : This communie-ation is forwarded as information Q}TLJ
1

'

' '

. -

\u25a0

111 1

Gsna&k

A^ Period

of Time Covered by This Report

-r

7 Dec.

to 18 Dec.'

19UU.

B,- Sector From Which Report Emanated

Third U.S. Army.

C. Existing ''feather Conditions -t Ham fell intermittently ''tow*the. first three days; a combination of cloudy and bright days prevailed during the "balance of the- trip, Heavy frost v covered the area; the ground" .was partially frozen and a thin layer of ice covered the ponds and .streams The temperature stayed around freezing at all times, \u25a0\u25a0:\u25a0
\u25a0

Di, Mature of liilitary Operations 2he army was making slow progress along key points on the frcnt in an attack Saarbrucken was being heavily shelled and attacked by our troops, but progress, was meager T
>

nits and

ndividuals
-\u25a0

nterviewe

$1 Section .Third U,S, .army 6lBth Depot Supply Co*

Co* Co. 9Usth Salvage Jlepa.ir Co.
Salvage Collecting Co.
899th Co. platoons) Uopth Laundry. -Co 4 (2 platoons)
detachment) 858 th !\u25a0 & 3 .Go. (fumigation detachment)
. 303rd Railhead Co, .
859 th & 859th IB Co. (1 platoon)

839th Laundry Co. (l platoon)

80th Division
Battery A,

s*

Q|-i Section
Section

jn. jn.
178 th . 317th Infant% Begt - Hq_s . Infantry

Copbat Engineers

313th

Regt.-^-Hqs. 319th Hegt-. Service Co., 519th Infantry Hegt-.

Cn f i;{ 319th Infantry Hegt

. .

Bn. Bn.

: .;.

. .

..

Bn. 702nd Tank Bn.

. .

318th

Infantry Eegt r- Hqs. Service Co, 3l^th Infantry Eegt.

Total Hupbe'r, of Individuals Interviewed

&

\u25a0

r-..
T

....., .....,t

Other Officers & /0S , Eh :

S-u

3030 6 6

\u25a0

;,

\u25a0

. xou

".'

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\u25a0\u25a0

lrl

Hk

\u2666*

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~*# k

Qjto Field Observation Report He.

3 (cont)
'

3F.

' Report Prepared 3y '-

...

'\u25a0*\u25a0'.

''

Captain' Robert Collett, QJ-iC

T/Sgt'.' 'Onier E. Lowry '
''T'/U "'Robert J. Schrass
?.!

&'& ' Special -r AcooEjpahied- "by Captai,n, Yves Louis Gay, Q^i Corps of the regular Trencji Army, wjxo is "being oriented 'to.' operate a Qa+ Enemy Equipment Intelligence .Service Team in,the '-first French Army, 11. CIASS I
A, 3 Ration

l It was the consensus jpf opinion among the individuals interviewed, with t tv/o exceptions given "be lew, that the B ration is very satisfactory and adequate for all combat units./
2,

(1 Lt, 3try A, 313th FA 3n.

m r c are eating swell .1 .".

I don't'- know - how you can feed us so SOth ?%v r 13 Dec. UU)

well.*

We get many substitutes in the meat components. tr o much corned "beef and 0 ration type hash; we would like to feed the men something different when" they come 'out of the line. In my opinion the meat allowance in -the 3 ration 'is too low for the fighting man. (S-rU, 319th Inf.Eegt... 80th Div. _.~ Ik Dec, UU)

3. There are still too

U. Too much corned "beef and hash as substitutes for the fresh meat ration. The men would .like- a change from these, items when they come off the operational ration. The allowance factor is too lew on fresh beef; we need more for our men. . (l v/ 0 Usst. S-U) 318th Inf Eegt. 80th Div. 15 Dec. hh)

\u25a0

B,

C Hat ion

1. The men like the new type C rations very much, but it is still too T greasy and salty, especially when they have to eat it cold, and there are times when this is necessary. The infantrymen don't like to carry' %t when fighting because the cans are too large and bulky for their po-ckfets''. Tne C ration can is a hard object to fall on when you have to hit the ground.' (S-U, 319.th Inf .Regt., CO of Serv.Co., 319th Inf.Regt. SOth Div.-lii. Dec.UU)
\u25a0

\u25a0

to give the men C rations when in combat for they tafce \u0 84. ' , out the ccffcci keep one can of beans or spaghetti and meat balls, and r thr..o,w the rest away rather than carry it. It is too bulky.. (I Supply Sgt., M Co., 31Qth Inf Regt i SOth Div. 1U Dec. kh)

2. It %s. useless

The D ration is okay, have found many uses for it father- than as a ration; rur cooks use it to make chocolate pudding, chocolate sauce 'for cake, chocolate icing, and as cocoa. VJe like it. (S-U, 319th Inf .Regt. SOth Div, lhDec, UU) C.

E_J?atiori

e consensus of opinion among individuals interviewed that the 1C ration is l>y far the most popular operational ration for the infantry elements of a division. In spite of its general appeal, the men have two suggestions to offer: One is to reduce the amount of cheese in the dinner package and. increase the variety of the meat components in the supper box.. (llote:. Recent technical bulletins from .OQjiG- indicate that these tv/o criticisms have been corrected in the future shipments of the X rations,.)
s
\u25a0

??^M cii ~

"^^

3. 10r-in-l Ration 1. Jcr operations my batt'allcfh pfeTers the 10-'ih-rl ration. Since the tank crews and similar .units eat bygrcaps, tney^find the 10-in-l ration ideal for

"
w^i

\ .^^. H-

II

t*

*
t

Q^i Field OTd s ervat ion Hep o r,t Ho 9 ( cpnt )

taking part; in combat we are unable to use 'our i-i1937 this -purpose, field ranges to feed bur troops. Although the 10-in-l ration is very satisfactory, we do not get all- the-, menus, especially the one that contains have observed in this ration is in the roast "beef. The only wastage I items of cracker, s .and dry cereal; the men rarely consume -all of them. On ' supply the X or C ration to. the men for 'variety. The battalion occasion I train carries a- three-day ration reserve. (S^U, 702nd Tank 3n. lit Dec. UU)

F,

Condiments
'

1. We still don't get enough baking powder or corn starch-. TJe .aren r t even "getting the allowance provided for -our unit. Our B ration- could be pepped " up considerably if we had these items. . ;\u25a0\u25a0- UU) gOth Div. (5-U, 319th Inf. Eegt. lUDec.

2. We never get enough baking powder. It is a chronic shortage in our organization. V/hen \u0 84ur. troops are out \u25a0of the line -we. try. to 'make- the best o possible meals for them by fixing up- a few extra things and doing some baking. Ifmore lard and sugar were provided in the 3 ration, the baking \u25a0' .\u25a0'. ,
problem would bo .simplified. -.(1 Oapt. & WO, 318th Inf,Segt. 80th Div. 15 Dec. UU)

\u25a0

\u25a0

G-. BAC Kits 1. .1 am not in a position to, know the allocation of rln.C Kits between the forward and rear areas, -'that i.s, the. army area and Com Zone. The only wastage of items is on the of f-^named brands like the tooth ppv/der in that';pencil-4ike tube soldiers den 11, like it. Up lUiG Kit- items are , sold in the PZs_ in this array;, the issue- is gratuitous.. Keep sending these items in the total kitj Separate components in bulk would not be satis factory; -The kit idea .is -sound for our operations. J would suggest these -changes in the kit; Double the quantity of chewing tobacco; add six boxes of snuff; add. loo cigars; and replace the off-named brand- tooth powder by -a named brand toothpaste. . : (Class I Officer t Third Army 11 Pec. UU) r

2.. The 'EAC Kit"; should' have one box of 50 cigar s : added, and. the 'tobacco should "*qe doubled* (1 Supply Sgt.- V 319th Inf. Heg"t. 80th Div. 15 Dec. UU>

chewing

111.

CUSS II&IV A. Clothing

The major reason for shoes. becoming Class-C or Class* X is are .completely worn, out from l^hg usage, They . aren't sent by the units soon .enough to- a -salvage repair ccn-pany for" mending. At least 90)^ of the shoes still coming through the" salvage yard are. the Type IIshoes; the o their 10;- are the Type 111, reversed upper. jffc combat boots- had,; been salvaged tc date. A weak point on shoes might *be considered the. welt . on -wh.iph the stitching breaks; also, after shoes are half-soled several times, t.hey -crack- acrbss the instep. The corporal classifying shoes ..said tha-t -about ,1.3-2 ;cut cf I,OGO. pairs of shoes have broken welts '. . A .typical : dav.[s ,wcjk v.xt classifying cf shoes is as follows: 12 .~ Class .3;. 132 -. Class \u0084C,;::a nd SSU;..- Class X, totalling 1,028 pairs" \u25a0\u25a0\u25a0 ;/\u25a0\u25a0. -..-.,-. \u25a0-.?- -.- --. >\u25a0;,. . \u25a0:. (9 Bee. uu)...;..; \u25a0\u25a0\u25a0\u0 84.\u25a0 (l'L't;,. 2.'^,! 99#t.hV'Sa^gc \u25a0.Collect-.i'ng Co,- 11: Dec. UU) a
material, that, they
i

1. Shoes (G-eneral Ccnments-)

defects

...

"k?

fe.9 G Repair Procedure

V7c receive our shoes

from tv/c

sources;

Direct

:v>

$i Field Observation Heport 110

.9

(cont)

Shoes from units; and secondly, .from the salvage collecting companies. repair ."by units en one day are normally processed and ready turned in for to "be picked upi the following afternoon, A unit which submits shoes which. are "beyond repair, is given a. salvage certificate- for the shoes which enables them to draw new shoes at the' Class IX &IV Depot, The shoes received from the salvage collecting, companies are; again checked close!;/ "by my men and either' repaired or classified as material. The repaired shoes are sent.to : the Class 1% & IV, Depot; the Class X shoe.s are returned to the salvage 'collecting company. \u25a0\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0'. (I'Lt. & l.Sgt; 9Usth Salvage Repair Co, 9 Dec. ,UU)
1

- '\u25a0 It was that all shoes and combat boots were being Army Class II JV Depot at Toul before being issued ,& dubbed "at the Third dubbing was placed, in buckets over K-1937> fire units to to the.- units. The be melted. A detachment from a service company was applying this' liquid dubbing, usiiig lea thstf gloves aiid- smearing the clubbing over the reversed leather portion of the sftoes or bocts. It was also observed by inspecting fifty pairs of bdets and shoes that little or. no dubbing was being rubbed into the welt", one of the more likely places for the shoe or boot to. leak. The use, of an Old to.othbrush to apply dubbing on the welt would have helped.
' c,-' ;Dubbing '

2.

Shoes,,.

a...' Repair ~ Replacing soles and heels represents 95fc ,of the work done on this type- shoe* Another recurring* repair is placing slip soles' on shoes which have had excessive wear^ or on nonr-tariff size shoes. Stitihing on the rear upper of the shoes becomes loose and must be re-stitched. In my piaqqUm, however, this shoe is a very substantial item, wears well and is \u25a0..' -. '\u25a0 : : .. \u25a0\u25a0. . .;..-. comfortable.- . . " (Ist Lt. 9Usth .Salvage F,epair Co. 9 Dec. UU)
;

-t

V.

Jt was observed that many 2u. in the 911-s^^ Salvage Bepair Co, had added a .5" strip of leather to the IIshoes to-makey in effect ,. a combat boot, 5" piece of leather was secured to the
b. Observation

"~ :

'\u25a0

'

leg by means of a snap fastener similar to that used on the cartridge belt; there were two such fasteners on each boot. The. outstanding feature of this improvisation was the quick silent operation.

3. Shoes,,

Type 111, Reversed Upper

a, The quantity of- ti&s type shoe being repa^eji >y ay company *v*leSS than 10>b of our weekly repetfcr Ist}"t'?sl on shoes. Within the last Week more of them have been coming in from the units T Our experience has been toolimited to date to make any statement about the deficiencies of this type :y-: y '\u25a0 shoe. . (CO 9Usth Salvage Scpair Co. 9 Dec. \&-)
1

'

b\ About all of my men have the Type 111 shoe, Ho complaints have been registered about it being too cold. But my men wear overshoes at all times r The battalion mechanics have mentioned that i^ater seeps through ' \u25a0\u25a0'-' \u25a0' the shoes to make them feel uncomfortable and wet , (S^U 702nd Tank Bn. lliDec. kh)

U?

Combat Boots

a. Except for a limited number of combat boots received .from officers, repaired few of these boots. The units, have sent "us no'r&e * \u25a0my coapanj^-has ; \u25a0\u25a0' r to date. ..' '.""\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0' (GQ 'Salvage Sepair Co, ~ $ Dec,- UU) 9Usth.

b..

1 -have been having: this trouble with my ccmb'at bcot'st.' ' the composition sole tears away from the leather portion at the toe. I 'have had to" nave the boots sewed several times , (1 Captv,. Hqs. 3t-ry; Jl^th &&3n, 80th Div. -13 Dec,. UU) ..^

*
t

\u25a0*

Q^i Field Observation Report

Uo;

9 (contj*.

'

~*PVr/$ Ml SU .

c. There are just 22 pairs '.of combat boots ..in .pur "battalion and the men have had them about two weeks.. We haven't, had them long enough to know \u25a0' V^'--" . what the men think of them, \u25a0-\u0084.." "UU) (S-U, 702nd Tank.Sn. r 11+ Dec.
/

d. We have had combat boots one month and at the present time ffjoof the 17 e are short ccnbat boots in personnel of this regiment are so equipped, the SE widths and the very small sizes , The men like, the combat boots very much and are mighty glad to get* rid of the leggings. The shoes are cold : when dubbed. The tongue of the boot bunches to make the foot uncomfortable. ' When this happens the men cut off part of the tongue, ~ 1U (S~U and 1 Supply Sgt. 319th Inf.Regt. 80th Div,

\u25a0\u25a0

Our troops have been A, wearing boots fcr JO days and about yOfi.ot the. men are so equipped. en suggestion we havo about this it is to put the right side of the leather of the shoe on the outside; The reversed upper, of the boot does not repel the water. My idea of a combat boot is the Type IIshoe with a leather cuff; many of our ftls have done this in the past at their- own 'expense _;;\u25a0 A hard toe would be an improvement and it would give additional^ protection , to the toes. ;80th Div. ~ 15 Dec.UU) (Asst. S~U; 1 Capt., 318th Inf.xtegt.

c. The men like

them; they cut out the leggings,

5.

Over she es

.arctic

a. All but 15 uen in my battery have been issued the cloth type overshoes. The overshoe offers good protection against the rain and mud. We "have had
several pair crack across the instep; this was caused by the men digging gun implacements while wearing the overshoes. We have had overshoes six . . ~

weeks,

(l Lt. and 1 Sgt., 313th

. Fa Bn, ~ 80th Div.

'

13.Dee. UU)

.. . .

...

650 of a total of 72U nen have overshoes, The men not provided require
sizes from 11 up which aren't available. We have had overshoes three weeks
and the* men do wear them in combat. I haven 1t received any complaints yet.
I lenow the overshoe helps greatly in keeping the men*s feet warm.
do (S~H, 702nd Tank Bn. 11+ Dec. UU)

b.

of the troops have overshoes. The sizes difficult to get are 10, the rubber and cloth types. The men prefer the 11 and 12. We received rubber overshoe because it is warmer, mere waterproof and easier to clean. The rubber type is alsc less tiring because it picks up less mud and absorbs no water. (l Capt., rifle company; 1 rifleman; 1 supply Sgt. & 1 S~U, 318th Inf Regt. 80th Div. liiDec. kit) c.

30%

d. The overshoes are worn \*henever the tactical situation permits. The men are required to wear them unless they must cross a river or. marshland This helps eliminate v/here the water v/ould go over the top of. the overshoes. trench fort. We have had the arctics f0r,'3.0 days and were equipped 100$, We received both the rubber and cloth types. The men prefer the .rubber type because it seer.s to stand up better.' ..The cloth type cracks across the instep, Qan*t be cleaned as easily as the rubber type, and absorbs water if one has to tramp around, in the rain for any length of time, (1 Capt; 1 Ass'tvs-U, 318th Inf.Eegt 80th. Div.. r 15 Dec. kk)

6. .
a.
Repair
are, classed

the Cias.s sreksare

(CO

$0 seeks are repaired by my salvage repair company. Socks as either 3 cT X material by the salvage collecting companies; 3 socks are laundered and returned for reissue. The Class X ; shipped to ASC2.
*.

Socks

9Usth Salvage Repair Co.

9 "Dec. I+U)

-5

ili^ii

*
\u25a0""'

firfirwi

\u25a0\u25a0*\u25a0\u25a0*" # lift <$i Field Observation Eeport M.y '(cent

b. These nen were wearing one pair of seeks each and stated that clean socks were "brought 'up to then daily "by the supply train. ;, SOth Div.> 13 Dec, UU) (3 riflemen ~ 317th Inf'.Ecgt.

\u25a0

rf c, The nen in this "battery wear two "pairs : socks; one light wool, and heavy wool, when possible to secure the different weights. The men's one preference in socks isr l) the cushion sol, seek* 2) the heavy wool sock (British make); and 3) the .lightweight wool, sock; (1-Sgt.., l'T/U, 2 Pvts., Btry. A ~ 313th- PA 3n. '- SOth Div. ~13 Dec. UU) d." The preferred sock is the cushion sole type for it absorbs moisture, is comfortable and warm,. The first lot of, cushion sole socks received had a very short leg. (iTote: A check -with DQM, SOth Div. indicates that all sizes o"f socks have been available for the past ten days, but previously \ : there had been a definite shortage of snail sizes.) \u25a0. UU) Div, (1 !fC, 4sst. S-U, JlSth Inf.Eegt. SOth Dec.

7. Gloves, Wool,

OP)

w/Leathcr Pain

a. ':Jq need a heavy leather glove in our work. There is a lot of tough work around a 105 mm,' gun such as handling shells, cleaning the gun. and digging gun emplacements. The leather palm glove being issued doesn't last \u25a0\u25a0"any time with this kind of v/ork. (1 Lt. t 2Bi 313th FA Bn. SOth Div. -13 Dec. UU)

b. It was tjie consensus

of opinion ar^ng the men interviewed, except for the above comment j thcat the glove, vjocl, OD with leather pain wa's entirely * satisfactory- and sufficiently durable for all operations.

S,

Mufflers

(Berqh & Co. Ltd.) item listed as Cap, Conforter, An English manufactured & at' the Class II IV Depot, Toul, is being issued as a nuffler in lieu of the American muffler. It is very short in length and is being accepted by the units with reluctance. This item is also issued in lieu of the wool knit cap when not available.

a.

(Ist Lt.

6lBth Depot Supply Co.

- S Dec.

UU)

b. My nen have '"been issued an English type nuffler (cap, conforter) and they do wear then. I have no comments to make on this iten for I have
received no favorable or unfavorable CSOi, 702nd. Tank Bn. 13 Dec. UU)

reports.

c,. We are being issued the English type muffler. Me don't like them because they are too short, but they are better than nothing at all.. (S^U, 319 th Inf.Eegt, SOth Div. 111 Dec. UU) :

9. Trousers, Field, Cotton, OD

a.. The Third iirmy Class II& 17 Depot, Toul, recently received an initial They are manufactured shipment of 2,500 pairs of this new type trousers. gas flap on the fly, and tab en trcuser leg-. They are to be with the

allotted to armored division units to be worn ever the new trousers, field, . wool,' OD, IS oz. special. \u25a0\u25a0\u25a0':"' '(-Exec. Officer Third atitj tyi Sect. & Ist Lt., -6lSth Depot Supply Co

S Dec. UU)

'b.

Cargo Peckers

':In my opinion the cargo pocket would be an asset

to

trousers, field, cotton, 0D ti Ccnbat troops need a place to Cxirry things. They .rarely carry a "pack^iritc 'combat, A cargo pocket, the same as that

on the new H3T trousers, would fillthe bill with these modifications: l) Eencve the pleatf Iron tile pocket to give complete fullness at the top of

~6~

M~

\u0084..,

... * rit M ,'ft* i . 1

v

., ,y.

'

3
Cs4 Field Observation Eeport 10

.9

3j L
(cent)

the pocket; 2) locate the pecket lower on the trouser leg tc nake it core. The position of the pocket on the side of the trquser leg, is suitable, I tens which would likely "be carried in such a pocket are: the X and D rations, .an extra pair of socks, toilet.articles, pecket knife, hand kerchiefs, pockefbook, pencils,' spcon and fork of the ness equipment. (Div. C)i, 80th Div. 13 Dec. UU)

accessible.

c. .The car^-'pocket like that m the E3Ts would "be okay for combat clothing "but not for dress, If the trousers are to be worn as part cf the Class A don't believe the enlisted nen unifc.m such as the wool trousers, OD, I would like it. If placed on a .pair cf trousers to be used strictly for combat the cargo pocket wculd be welcome. Wherever a cargo pocket is used, it should be placed far enough down the trcuser _ leg to makes, it easy, to get

into. (l Capt.; 1 WO, 10.

\u25a0

318th

Inf.Eegt.

''\u25a0'.'...".. '.;..... 80th Div, 15 Dec. UU)

Trousers, Wool, OP

.The no re. common defects observed in the wool trousers' at this collecting yard are: tears in the side pockets; stitching in the crotch which Tpecones loose; and tears at the knees. Kany of these tears appear to be 'caused "by other than the usual fair wear and tear. Many trousers are' in gocd shape 'and just require laundering befor.;. being sent back to stock, A day's work cri classification cf this iten is: 260 Class 3; 310 Class C; 130 Class X, totalling JOO, (9 Dec. l+l;) (l"Lt. & 1 EM, salvage classifier ~
998th Salvage Collecting Co. -,11 Dec.UU)

Defects
salvage

B> *

b. Tabs

I donH believe a tab is necessary m the wool trousers. I tuck ny trouser legs into the combat boots with a double tuck and haven't experienced any trouble with the trouser legs pulling out. Although I 'haven't worn trousers with the tab, in my opinion, I believe the button en the tab would be uncomfortable under the conbat boot, I have observed that the G-Is clip the buttons frcn the trouser legs of the HBTs.

(Dqtl

- 80th Div. - 13 Dec.

.

UU)

c. I don't have trousers with the tab, but I not believe it is essential, do I wear cut~*down cavalry boots and have had no trouble with the trouser legs . pulling out (S~U ~..J02nd Tank 3n. lit Dec. UU)

\u25a0

trousers, dees not offer any advantages. 'It would ' when worn inside the leggings or conbat boots, G-Is cut the buttons off the trouser legs of the one-piece HBTs because the buttons rub their legs when wearing leggings. (2 Capts., 1 teijor ~ 319th Inf.Hegt. 80th Div. 1U Dec, UU)

d.

The tab en the wool

rub., the legs

When onec. We. don't favor, a tab on the wool ODs or any other trousers. piece H3Ts are issued tc the G-Is, they cut the buttons off the trouser legs because the buttons irritate the legs - under leggings.
(1 Capt., 1 WO Usst, S-U)'- 318th Inf.Hegt. 80th Div. 15 Dec. UU)

especially now that conbat boot's are being used to replace the Type ill shoe and leggings,. The, tab would h&lp'tc hold the trouser leg in the cuff of the conbat b00t... I not 'believe, the button of the tab do would cause an irritation tc the. user. 1 s leg, .f0r..1t., would be under the cuff of the conbat boot which do esn*.t exert any heavy pressure against the user's ' \u25a0 . ...,'.'.... . . leg.. (Class II IV Officer & Third. Amy 17 jbec, _ UU)

asset,

f. Tes, in ray opinicn, a. tab for the wool OD trousers would be a definite

\u0084,

^7^.

Cs4 Field Observaticn Report He. 9 (cent)

I 11.

a Defects The wool shirt has no outstanding weakness. The "bulk of the shirts classified as "X" material' have "been taken fron "battlefield casualties where it has "been necessary for the nedics to cut away part of the garment, or where the shirt. has "been worn cut frcn long continuous use." On a snail percentage of shirts "buttons are missing'- fron the cuffs or front of the shirt, and occasionally pockets are ripped 'fron snagging. A representative day*s work of shirts classified in this company is: 260 Class B; 110 Class C; 120 Class X, totalling U9O. (9 Dec. UU) (I'Lt. &'2 EH, salvage sorters 99&th Salvage Collecting Co. 11 Dec. Ul+)

Shirt, Wool, OP

This article' has no specif ic' weaknesses, The repairs- are mainly for rips or tears. "believed tc "be caused "by snagging, a snail percentage of shirts require patches' at the el"bow. About 2O /o of repaired shirts b* Repairs
have "buttons tc toe replaced, usually at the cuffs. (l Lt. 9Usth Salvage Repair Co f 9 Dec. Uk) 12

'

L/oL

a * Defects The usual reasons for classifying' the overcoat as "C11 or \u25a0\u0 84 . n material are* buttons missing, "buttonholes frayed;' and rips 'and tears "X caused usually from other than fair wear and tear. Overcoats received in this yard are often in good condition and need only to "be dry-cleaned "before "being returned to the Class II&IV Depct On 9 Dec. I|U this conpany classified 272 overcoats as follows.; 150 Class 3; 60 Class C and . ' '\u25a0-\u25a0'\u25a0\u25a0 62"^ Class; X. (l Lt. & 1 EM, salvage classifier rt 99Sth Salvage Collecting Co. 11 Dec.UU)
\u25a0

.-

Overcoat, Wool,

Roll Collar

"b. The nen questioned said

"because in Conbat) (3 riflemen

they had had overcoats, but turned then in they were too heavy to wear or carry (See Section on Clothing Worn

.
- 317th
-

Inf.Regt.

80th Div.

13 Dec. UU)

keeping or turning in their overcoats. All except the headquarters nen turned then in. These staff nen had their overcoats cut down to resemble a nackinaw. (1 Supply Sgt. 178 th Engr. Bn. ~ 13 Dec. UU)

c.'" The soldiers in this "battalion had the choice of either

d. The nen in this battery don't wear overcoats in conbat. use then as blankets or don f t use then at all. (1 Lt. & 1 Sgt. Btry. a, 313th Fa 3n. 13 Dec. UU)

They either

When working, the men of cur /s! cenpany as a general rule do not wear their overcoats. They prefer something of a shorter length. The overcoat
c. is worn on guard duty cr' when riding trucks tc and fron points of work.

(DQjJ'i

gOth

Div. ~ 13 Dec. hk)

f : Uy nen do not wear overcoats; an overcoat is toe long and bulky for tank nen. The overcoat is used as a blanket, pillow or ground sheet. have The nen are always trying to replace the overcoat by a nackinaw. I turned in many overcoats as excess clothing, (S~U 702nd Tank Bn. 13 Dec. iiU)

g, In this regiment sope men wear overcoats and some donH* It is almostnecessary tc force then to wear then, I know of eight cases where the G-Is have cut down the overcoats tc nackinaw size, it is too long for conbat use. (S~H, 319th Inf.Regt* ~Both Div. lU'Dec, hk)

"

h.

'

The nen in this regiment don't wear an overcoat in combat.

We keep

\u25a0\

\\**

HI'di

fa >.

Vt^ Wh

QJPi Field Observation Eepcrt UTc._ 9 (cent

then in the "battalion supply train for use -when the men are not fighting* It is a good warm item "but too
long for the doughboys when committed to the line.
15 Dec, UU) (Asst. S~U, 318th" Inf.Regt. :- SOth.Piv.

i. It was observed among the elements of 'the 80th Div. "billeted St. Avoid that only one out cf ten men wore an overcoat, The soldier's were wearing, the iv-19U3 field jacket with or without: the highneck sweater, the The temperature, was eld field jacket with the .sweater.-, or just a sweater. C/ I , about U0

in,..

...

\u0084;,;

13
a.

Trench Goat

EH..{Along Officers French Coat Lines)

The, U E&i interviewed were of the. opinion that such a trench coat would "be an excellent idea, especially with the detachable liner and the hood for protection against rain. They weren !t able to give an opinion on the' feasibility of sucn a coat: plus a poncho to replace the overcoat and rain coat, (Hote: These men do not use an. overcoat now "because it is too long "\u25a0 and bulky) " Bn -*. X 3 Pe.c hk) .-.<\u25a0 (1 Sgt.,, 1 T/U, 1 Cpl;, 1 Pvt. 313th

\u25a0

b. In my' opinion such a trench coat for combat

drawback*

troops would have the same an, overcoat. It would be too long and would hamper their freeas also believe the material in the officers 1 trench coat dom of movement. I is too light for combat use and would tear easily. Most combat Gls don't doubt if they would wear a trench wear an overcoat when fighting, and I coat, -I suggest a one-piece combat uniform for all combat troops with. these features; A zipper ed, front, pockets of the paratroop type,., .and both waterproof and windprcof , (DQJi SOth Div. 13 Dec. UU)

IU. Overcoat, Parka Type

W/ftemQvable File

Liner

a. Such a coat would have limited use in an infantry division. It would ; be a.'. good, article for artillery. units, ant i-^aircraft units, and Mps; for other'" elements it would be too long and bulky.

(DQ>I

- SOth Div. - 13 Dec.

UU)

15. Jacket/ Field, &-19UI

highneck wool a. O^his battery is equipped 100^ with this jacket and the field jacket. A The combination is liked much more than the old sweater. of the enlisted men have had the combat jacket and still prefer it to few' the new combination.
It is .still,a good item, especially when worn with a wool sweater. (l"sgt., 1 T/U,'l Opl. 3fry. A, '3l3th U 3n. 13 Dec. Uh)

b. Definitely, there is nc surplus of this jacket in cur division. It is a critical item, especially in sizes 31- f 36. -and 38, both regular and long. have gathered from the troops indicates that they would The information I like the combination jacket and sweater very well. The pile liner, or the jacket, w001,.' OD (KPO jacket) have not been issued in this division. (DQM ~ SOth Div.-- 13 Dec. UU),

c."..,5Q men in our battalion' of J2U men have had the M~19U3 jacket for about two. weeks.. The others., wear either the combat jacket or the old type field jacket All men have received the highneck wool sweater.- The sweater has been. available ,fcr six weeks. These men who have the combination 19k3

with sweater claim' it is a .good. combination, but still prefer the combat jacket. Tank -men say. it is easier to .get in and out of the tank with 'the combat jacket ; the K^l9U3'Jacket is long- and catches. (S-U 702nd Tank Bn. ,1U Dec. UU)

jacket

-m

<$i Field Observation Report ITo * S (cent)"

neck, enabling the collar tc come higher under the chin for warmth. :(1 Supply Sgt., 5 EH~ 178 th Engr. 3n.. ~,13 Dec. UU) ;'
'
-\u25a0

d. The men wear the sweater reversed with the "buttons at the "back of the

c; This new jacket is a decided improvement over the old field jacket. the pockets are an especially good feature, providing plenty of spaGe for

97$ of our men have the highneck wool sweater the .infantryman, exceptionally warm and comfortable. (S~lt, 319th Inf .Regt. .- 80th Div... IL< Dec. UU)

which' is

,f.

. keeps then warm. (1 Ist Sgt., 1 WO (Asst. S-U),

The men prefer the new jacket with sweater '"because the combination, is warmer and lighter. The pockets are larger and the length of the jacket

'

31Sth

Inf.Refit,

80th Div. ~ .15

\u25a0

\u25a0

Dec.- i&)

\u25a0.

16.

a Defects.about "f cut of 10 of all ja/ckets of this type processed: ' through this yard are classified as either "C" or fIX" material. There' are he* several weak points to this jacket. The cuffs.fray easily, as. dees' l "back of the neck. The cloth, generally speaking, is not very durable and we' receive many jackets with rips and, tears, This is particularly true around the pockets.- -On Dec; 9 3.9UU this company classified the following i Class X, number of field jackets: 100 Class 3; 190 Class C; 118 ' totalling U08 f . . (l.Lt., 1 EM, salvage sorter, 998th Salvage Collecting Co. 11 Dec, i|W

Jacket, Field, OP

\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0

'^*

Repairs This type jacket has two definite' weak points, the cuffs and the collar. Practically every jacket repaired requires the cuffs to be The pockets on many jackets require shortened and; the collar to "be patched. repair (1 Lt.,. 1 M/Sgt-. 9Usth Salvage Repair Co. 9 Dec. UU)

c * Observation -* It was noted that one soldier had stitched a pocket on the -rear (inside) on his field jacket. The pocket was approximately S" , wide x 6" long x 2"- deep. This pocket was used- to: carry small miscellaneous ; articles. \u25a0\u25a0.\u25a0'\u25a0"
\u25a0

17.

Very few combat jackets find their way into our salvage a * Defects yard,- and those that dc are invariably Class X material. The defects observed were frayed cuffs or rips near the back of. the neck. The classi fication on. this item for 9 Dec. l\k was: lie Class B; no Class C, and 60 Class, X. (llotei It has been observed that men hang onto combat .-\u25a0\u25a0'". jackets tillworn out because of fear that no replacement can be secured.
y
This was an accumulation of combat jackets for a period of one week.) I (l Lt,, 1 M, salvage sorter 998th Salvage Collecting Co. 11 Dec. ty)

Combat Jackets

18. 1 and 2 P.i-ece HBT Suits

Very few one-piece HBT suits are found in the salvage yard. a * Defects jackets of the two-piece suits have no unxisual weak points. Those' The classified as C or X material are usually from battlefield casualties-' where m-edics must cut part of the garment j or worn out completely from long usage. s?he trousers of- the twc~piece suits have the cargo pockets ripped and. have tears or rips at the knees, a typical day f s classification on this item -is; -150 Class B;110 --Class C; 210 * Class X, totalling U7O. (9 Dec.UUK (l lit.'-, 1 EM, salvage sorter 998th Salvage Collecting Co. 11 Dec. UU)
\u25a0

\u25a0

v-l$- v

4^

-4

Q^-i Field Observation Report* .^(<^n?)

?*k % >Jfc

to

fi 7,

"b. Repairs I have observed no specific points on HBT suits that are Repairs .consist mainly of rips and tears caused "by weaknesses.. obvious normal usage. The H3T suits. are gercL tough laments. other than (CO Salvage Repair Co, -.9 Dec. UU) 9ksth

c. The mechanics and maintenance, men in this battalion prefer the ene~ piece HBT to the two-piece .suit. They claim it is warmer and is easier to slip off and on.. (1 Supply Sgt. ** 178th Engr. Bn> 13 Dec. kk)

d.. VJe wish the army would issue us the cne~picoe-- HBT suit rather .than %h& two-piece outfit. The one-piece suit is warmer and we don lt have. to wear a v ;>\u25a0. second "belt I (U EM, 313th 7a 3n.. 80th Jiv. 13 Dec. UU)

\u25a0

\u25a0

19. Raincoats
a * Defects The "bulk of the raincoats received are classified as -Class X material* Tears and rips are found en almost any part of the raincoat;-, On 9 Dec. UUi 885 raincoats were sorted and and they are unreparable. classified as- follows: -105* Class 3; no Class C; an^- f&Q Class X. (iLt., 1 SM, salvage classifier 99Sth- Salvage Collecting Co. -11 Dec.Uk)
-\u2666

10 * Observation The 9Usth Salvage Repair Co. recently added- strip & ... .: to the bottoms of GI raincoats for an Iff company, This additional .Iongt.il \u25a0\u25a0. is to protect the lower portion- of the le^s of iiPs directing traffic, during inclement weather. This improvisation adds strength to the consensus of opinion of G-Is and officers interviewed that the regular issue raincoat is toe short. (9 Dec. UU) 20

Leggings

a. DefectsThe usual defect with the legging is the strap which fastens It is often ripped off or badly frayed; under the instep of the shoe. this is caused by the use of the foot when digging foxholes, trenches,, gun emplacements,., etc. A representative day's work of separation and Class 0; classification of this it is as follows: 14.00 en Class 3; 500 none Class X, totalling 900. (9 Dec. UU) (lLt.;'& 1 M, salvage sorter -* 998th Salvage Collecting Co. 11 Dec. 14.14.)

*
a/

\u25a0

21 . \u25a0 CO. o tfoing Worn i Gcnlpat n

Itens of clothing normally worn by the nen-.-in this ffield Artillery' pairs of wc.clen socks, Type II or 111 shoes, overshoes, battery are: two leggings, one pair of woolen- under-drawers, one pair of wool OD trousers, one pair of trousers H3T, two worlen undershirts, one woolen OD shirt, one jacket EBT, one wool highneck sweat or t one jacket, either the eld type field jacket or the M-19U3 jacket, muffler, gloves, wool knit cap and helmet / Ho overcoat is worn. (l Lt.,- 1 Sgt., 1 l/ii,.1 Cpl.v 2 Pvts. Btry. a, -313th i\i8n,~13 Dec. UU)

Tank Crew Items of' clothing -normally worn by ..tank crew nesbersi one .pair wool socks, r-ne pair Typ-e, 111 shoes, overshoes, no^ leggings, one, . pair cotton underdrawers, one pair wool OD trousers, one pair combat trousers,, one' woolen undershirt, one wool OD shirt,- one highneck sweater, jacket, or -nackinaw, wool knit cap. or combat helmet., steel .-helmet an'e combat helmet, and gloves (except the gunner)-, Il overcoat is worn. or crash OS~U. 702nd Tank Bn. 13 Dec. ifU)

""

\u25a0

\u25a0

\u25a0

c",. . Infantry

(Heavy Weapons Co.).

-t

-
Items of clothing being worn by the men:
one pair \u25a011

one.

pair combat boots.,, me or two pairs; woolen socks, overshoes,'

QK Field
'#

Observation Report No

.9

(ccnt)^

woolen underdrawers, one pair wool OD trousers, one pair HBT trousers.,
two woolen undershirts, one wool OD shirt, one highneck sweater, one fieid Jacket, OD, or ii~l9U3 field jacket, muffler, wocl knit cap, steel helmet
and gloves, ITc overcoat is wcrn. ,
(leapt., Co, X, 319th Inf.Regt. ~; 80th Div.,- Ik Dec. UU)

d. Infantry (Rifle Company).'*-* .Items, cf.. clothing .worn in combat are: :. combat boots, overshoes, (If;the tactical situation .permits) , usually two pairs woolen socks, .one pair wo elen. underdrawers one pair wool OD . trousers, tv.ro woolen undershirts, one woolen OD shirt, one highneck sweater, one field jacket, muffler, knit cap, (usually with visor cut off), steel helmet and gloves*.. Nc overcoat. (1 Cpl., rifle company; 1 WO, Usst. S~U) , 312th Inf.Regt. 80th Div. ~ 15 Dec. uu) ".... .;.:

\u25a0

B. IUDIYIDOaL 2SJJPMMT
\u25a0*\u25a0
agi Sl e ep ing

, Vie c1, Op ,. /drc-und

She e t

This item has "been issued to the rifle companies, heavy weapons company, '
anti-tank company, and headquarters -company in that sequence of preference.
(S~U, 319th Inf .Regt. 80th Div. 1U Dec. UU)

a.

of 3ag with Blankets When attacking and immediately after the attack, our men do not use the sleeping tags "but utilize two "blankets, shelter half and. sometimes the overcoat. 'In a static position (still in' the line), the sleeping "bag and "blankets are. used except in the outpost. This always depends on the tactical situation. The men have no particular way of using the two blankets with the sleeping "bag. It depends on the individual. VJhen out of the line, the men sleep with the ground sheet
and one "blanket under the bag, sleeping in the "bag, and using the other
"blanket as the cover.
(S-41.,.. 319th Inf.Regt.; 1 Capt., rifle company, 319th Inf fHegt. ** .80th Div.
11l Dec, UU)

\u25a0 \u25a0

V, Use

b, '"'ln my, company I have instructed each man to sew one blanket around the of the sleeping bag. The blanket has been adjusted (cut) so liner that-.-it -.conforms to the contours of the liner. This provides a double wool liner which is snug, comfortable and extra warm. he other blanket is used as .either a ground sheet or cover. The issued ground sheet (British manu facture) is usually worn as a rain cape. (1 Capt., Co. H, 319th Inf.Regt, 80th Div. lU'Dec. UU)
\u25a0Wool,
"\u25a0

The sleeping bag is too bulky to be carried to the troops on the line. That is my problem as captain of the service company of this regiment. I have heard the men complain that when the bag gets wet it is damn hard to dry. This is the first rest this division has had after 102 days of pont.inuous action, including many weeks of rainy weather. '.Then in combat, the infantry troops would just as soon have the blankets as the sleeping bag. When in a rest area it is a different etory, When net committed, I have noticed that the infantrymen place the two blankets in the sleeping' bag. The ground sheet is sometimes used as such, but more often as a rain cape. (l Capt., Scry.'Co,,, 318th Inf.Regt. r-'Both Div. 15 Dec. UU) d.

c.. We like our sleeping bags very much for they are warmer and easier to keep clean than the blankets. We roll our blankets inside the sleeping bag each day. This keeps the blankets away from the dirt and grime in which we have been living for,, the past five months. (U Eti, serv. co,, 318th Inf.Regt. 80th Div. 15 Dec. UU)

~12

yliy LtliliM^iLIJ

Q|i Field Observation Eeport Uo,

9 (cont)

2. Case, Canvas,,
manufacture)
a.

Dispatch

Our. officers 'don't use them. <He use the plastic map case (3ritish to. carry our maps, and stick our papers and notebooks in our ; ;;\u25a0; , pOCketS. . " ,:, Div, 1U Dec. UU) (Sr*U, 702nd Tank Bnv ; 80th

.;

b. Ist Sgts. and supply sergeants usually use dispatch cases to carry records, but the authorized persons such as the officers in our organization seldom- use the dispatch case for its original purpose. The case is used to carry stationery, toilet articles, etc. The plastic map case., (British manufacture) is used to, carry maps; pencils and notebooks are. carried' in '
the

(S-U; 1 Capt., Serv. Co. , Jl9th Jnf.Kegt/

individual' s

pockets-,

SOth

Div,-

'...,... - 1U Dec^UU)

. .'.

3. Hess Gear- Carried into Combat

which has been issued us. VJhen we are on the move the icess equipment, plus our individual equipment ,. is carried in our , motor : vehicles, (1 Lt., 1 Sgt,, 2 Cpls., 313th Fa Bn. 13 Dec, UU)
a,

V7e carry- all equipment

...
-

-
.

b,.

Soldiers of a tank battalion carry all mess equipment i.ssued them..

It- is carried on the outside of the tank, (S-U 702nd Tank Bn.' 1U Dec, UU)
X rations, and sometimes one box - SOth Div.of D rationsUU)when moving up ~IU Dec.

'

. ','.'\u25a0''

c. Our infantrymen carry a spoon cr fork, canteen with cup-, three boxes
(S-U ,. 319th Inf.Regt,
;

to..attack, r

J'." .-J
:

'

\u25a0U.
a#

Tent, Shelter Half

The main defects of the shelter half are missing or ripped guy rope loops, and' rips and tears on any part of the shelter half, It appears that many of these rips are caused by either bullets or shrapnel. The. new type (double-end green colored) shelter half is tougher and stands up better than the khaki->coiored tents, either old or new type. On 9 Dec.,, UU tlje following number of tents were classified: 9U Class B* 128 ' . ," ,S6 X, totalling 2US. Class . Classic?. (l- Lt..i!l. M% salvage classifier 99Sth Salvage Collecting Co.- II Dec. ..UU) Defects

\u25a0

Eepairs. The- usual "repairs en the shelterhalves are the replacement of ropes and grommets, strengthening of buttonholes, sewing up rips and - -.;. tears. (CQ,; 9Usth Salvage. Hepair Co, ~ 9 Dec, UU)
b,
\u25a0.

<

\u25a0

Right now we are using billets c... ..-.Our men- seldom' pitch shelterhalves. whe.reyer possible. and. the shelter half is used to either roll blankets or as a ground sheet, \u25a0\u25a0v hen sleeping outdoors the tank men use the tarp that . comes with the tank as a shelter.
T

(S-U, 7Q2nd

Bn. - 1} 2ec, UU)

...

C,.<.:OHG^IZATipHAL.^mbaJT'I

1.

Cafeteria
\u25a0.

Tj'pe Tray for

a.. We. should have. itr>v The G-Is won't carry the meat can into combat. Many are- lost and others are thrown away.. ...The result .of. this . situation is that en-.. 2 Dec. fjk this division was short .3,263 meat .cans, an accumulated sho.rtage since September,. \jhen-Mc started fight ing -dh 7 August UU the men were equipped 100/b, In.-my opinion-, if we -had the cafeteria type tray for mess gear we wouldn't need a replacement on all those meat cans now,' (DQ/.i r- SOth Div. ~ 1U Dec, UU)

Mess Kit

i fe-

* ij ij

y UL.

j|gp

QJ4 Field Observation Report. Ho. 9 (cont)

b. In our opinion the caf.eteria -type tray' would not "be a desirable item. they can carry and the Our kitchen ,J rucks are now loaded with everything " kitchen personnel are up t.o their necks in work. Inf.-Begt-. (S^U, 319th Inf.egt, 80th" Div.{; Capt. 'of Serv.. C0.;, .JL^th " .'\u25a0-. i \u25a0*\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0 80th Div. lb. Dec, \Uli)

\u0084

2.

Bread Box., Aluminum

a. In my opinion an aluminum bread box would not be practical for our operation. The present replacement and control of bread sacks (paper bags) we are now using- is a terrific problem. It is rather tough trying to get the bags back from the .combat -units. The proposed aluminum bread box .would be ever so much mo;-e difficult. -to get back. When a combat unit \. tur ns'.'irf a\u25a0\u25a0 certificate for bat.tle loss on an item there isn't much that on&.;can r -do; about it. Ho, I not 'believe an aluminum bread box is "feasible forJ "an do army .operation. The last. proposal in your question, in my opinion, is our , solution: Give us an expendable bread sack 1 (Class I Dec.UU) Officer, Thir Army 11.

3. Cans, Water,
s"*a lX^ 'water cans in the salvage yard on the day'of n our visit; 55 had been classified as Class 3, and 10 as Class. X. The Class 3 cans had been punctured by shrapnel and bullet holes; and had. been welded.. Eight out of ten cans had rusted lids; however, that was not 'coti-f' r sidered detrimental tc their use.

a.

There were

65

-r

U. Lanterns, Gasoline
a Repair The. most common replacement is the generator. It carbonizes very easily and is difficult to clean. However, if normal maintenance was. taken by the perspn using the lantern,, the present maintenance rate would drop. Many globes have to be replaced as they are broken in transit Generally speaking, the gasoline lantern i-s a and some by carelessness, very durable item.. (l; T/11, lantern repairman 9Usth Salvage Repair Co, 9 Dec, UU)

\u25a0'

\u25a0

\u25a0

b. Our experience with The generator carbonizes break, tpo easi.ly and we. too much noise for a CP (S-U, 319th Inf.Regt,
-*

the converted gasoline lantern has not been good. very quickly arid must be replaced. The. mantles can't get replacements, lantern also makes The operation. 80th Div. lit Dec. UU)

5,

Hantles

, Gasoline

a. If the lantern is lighted properly the user will not blox^ a hole in the end of the mantle when initially lighting it f Me repair and convert scores of gasoline lanterns- and have found our experience ttie best way to "burn-in" a new mantle is to pump up the pressure in the fount below ~ the- required pressure and open the valve -l/U turn, After t-fre mantle is : "burnt-in"' , pump, the pressure up to maximum capacity and' then open the ' '\u25a0\u25a0 '\u25a0'\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0'\u25a0"'\u25a0\u25a0'. valve, " ".]\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0 \u25a0'\u25a0\u25a0<\u25a0\u25a0'\u25a0\u25a0'\u25a0 .' " hk) (3 EM', repairmen, 9Usth^l Salvage "Eepslr Go.' 9 -^6; : ':' \u0084:.:\u25a0,\u25a0 '.' ]'.'\u25a0 // b.. The. mantles for the gasoline lantern break toe easily. For combat out fits -a- mantle a day .for -'gasoline lanterns; otherwise, we [Have a lot of lanterns we., can 1 1 use. Then we have to burn- more candles ' '" \u25a0' *': :"' ; : ;^' . than we" are . ed.' .'. ' ' ' ;';r ' "~ SOth Div. 1U Dec. UU) '- :' ' " : (S-Uf-319th'InfIliegt. .'
:

\u25a0"

'

- .
\u25a0

\u25a0

v/e^should'be-'i'ssued

\u25a0

\u25a0

It is the consensus : opinion among individuals interviewed that the 'of for the gasoline lantern is too fragile for combat use unless one mantle c.

""lii*"

'

i(fl%

"'
"? >v

fc

15

Q^i ?ield Observation Report No , 9^dls)^wii

nantle a day can "be provided for each, lantern,

1&i&

6. One- and Two-Burner Stoves

a>

replacement

The major repairs on the one- and two-burner stoves are the of the generator and' flame cup. The flame cups "burn off at the bottom of ;tjae cup,, while the generator carbonizes and must be replaced. If normal maintenance is maintained after each twenty hours of use take the generator apart and wash it in gasoline ~ the replacement of generators , would be reduced. '"''.'... . (2 SM, repairmen Salvage Repair Qo Dec. UU) 9Us"kh 9
Repairs,

.-

b. The performance of . the one-burner stove has been very satisfactory in our battalion, and I have no criticisms to offer. We.. could use. the two-.,
, burner stove, for it would save time when preparing .'.a "meal and would enable
the men to have a 'hot ration and drink at the same time.
(S-U. 702nd. Tank Bn. .- 13. Dec. UU)

c. It is an excellent item. The flame cup burns off and it is hard to We have difficulty getting replacements on the stove for our replace. combat losses. The oner-burner stove is one of the best items the Csi Corps , issues us. .

7;' Immersion Boaters

This article is excellent in its performance and gives practically no trouble. V'e have very few in our repair company to be fixed. The. usual .."'... repair is the burner which carbonizes and must, be replaced. (CO Salvage Repair Co. 9 Dec. UU) 9Usth a.

..

,1

8,,

Range, TieId,

M-193

a. Repairs which repeat often en the field range are the replacement "0f..... burners ,. manifold assembly, and the airline long. 'The converted unit has been very satisfactory and to date has given Very little trouble from a repair angle. Some difficulty has been encountered with the carbonization of the flame valve, and, in the opinion of the field range repairmen* the replacement of this valve could be reduced if proper maintenance is maintained in the field, (ij. EM, field range repair section.*- 9Usth Salvage Repair Co, 9. Dec* UU)

b,' :V/e have the iron stock pots and my cooks don't like them. They are hard to clean for the food sticks to the sides of the pot* In my opinion, the iron stock pot taints the flayer of the food. Our experience with the converted field range has been very good* It saves the kitchen '^personnel much cleaning time.
(S-U; 702nd Tank 3n, 13 Dec. U^)

9. Portable Flour kill

a.
In my opinion a portable .flour mill is net desirable I want my flour in sacks (Glass I Third Aii-jy 11 Dec. uu),
Officer
:

f.cr use in an army.

10.' Tentage

.1, \u25a0

a.y Currently* the' most common , 'repair jpbs...en tents" are rips and hole.s caii'sed by bullets 'and, shrapnel',;' and" also .burns in the top of.the tent. The burns" are caused from /faulty' pipes and lack, of spark 'arresters. Another
'

job we do on tents is add s trips" to the corners of the tents 'to make them more black-out proof A . . \u0084-, _\u25a0_ .. (l T/U, and' CO 'Salvage Repair "6o :^ -, 9 Dec, UU) 9U5th

'

\u25a0

M \u25a0

|Lyi i

P /j*"f T>

**\u25a0

\u25a0

\u25a0:.\u25a0 :^

|fi m

Jl

Uont) Q^i Field Observation Report. w~ 3

11V Pouch,"' Human '\u25a0Remains, Burial Type

a. Use of. such an item in our- bus;ine-s,s would, "be desirable.'. ''The pouch would "be very beneficial in haridi ing bodies f-rpn ."tnirned-out tanks 'and. mother "burned motor vehicles. It is -also' necessary to use something -more -sub- ; " r \u25a0. stantia.l than a mattress cover when we have to remove t\46 or more bodies position-which has taken a direct artillery hit. Such a rubberized from a would recommend pouch would be more sanitary and make the task less messy f I a basis of issue for this pouch of 20- per 1,000 burials. This is based on cur operational experience sine'e 1 August UU. We have averaged 5000 burials per month in this army. The number of such cases aforementioned ,-.. , .. averages 100 a month. (GRS Officer ~ Third Army 10 Dec UU)

\u25a0

Generally speaking, such a pouch is not necessary in the normal evacuation of bodies from a division. There are cases, however, where it could be used to pick up badly dismembered bodies from burned-out tanks or other situations where direct hits are made by mortar shells, on./ would suggest that if such' a pouch is- .-\u25a0\u25a0 positio-ns of two or more men. I used, the supply be kept with the Graves Registration Co. at the q'enetery,: : ' ' \u25a0\u25a0'. ._\u25a0; and to be picked up by the divisions as the need arises. -' , . (GRS Officer Piv,> 1U Dec. UU) 80th
b,
5

\u25a0

D.

GSNERAL SUPPLIES & EQUTPjOT?

1.

Candles,

Stearic Acid

\u25a0

>

If we cculd get our allowance the '.men. a. T.'<T e arenU getting any candles. could use them in their pup tents or ballets for writing letter s.- Thrs. ;i?s a good morale factor. We have no o.ther use for them; we use lanterns in,, the kitchen, fire control center and headquarters. (1 Lt., 313th Fa 3n, 13 Dec. hk)
;

\>i Our allov/ance of candles is 150 lbs. per 1,000 men for two weeks. The candl-es are used by the men in billets for lighting purposes, for reading, >" .;.;.'\u25a0 ; ,- and writing letters. (S-U UU) 702nd Tank Bn. 13 Dec.
-^

We havenH received enough candles, and we have a definite need for them. The men use them for lighting their quarters. Candles are a good morale factor ass the men can use them when writing letters. The allowance ' ' : is 1-lb. per 60 men per day, (S-U, 3i9th Inf.Regt. 80th Div. '-. 1U Dec. kh)
c,

-,\u25a0

2. .Fuel Tablets, Ration Heating

a. We do not use fuel tablets for heating rations and never draw them. When using operational rations rur me:n heat them over the one-burner stove. When using the B ration, we use the .field range. (S-U -702nd Tank 3n. 13 Dec. Uk)

\u0084

b.

In my opinion the allowance of fuel tablets should be one per man per day when using the operational ration,. . The pres.ent allowance is not '"'
enough to heat the C or -K ration plus -a. hot drink. \u25a0;..
(S-U, 32,9th Inf.Regt.. Ik -Dec. UU) 80th Div.

3.
a.

Opener, Can, IQ-in-1

Our tank crews invariably use and I have yet to hear a complaint frcm the men- about the can. opener. It usually winds up in some Gl !s pocket. (S-U 702nd Tank Bn, -r 13 Dec. UU)

the

,10-4n-l ration for operational purposes

This can opener is an excellent

..item.

>

<$i Field Observation Report Kp. #

9 (co'nt)

b. Wo haven't had the 10-in-l ration since 1 Oct. UU, "but the can openers up to that date were very good and are still being carried by the men r The troops use it to open C rations; this eliminates spilling the contents of the C ration when opened with the usual key opener.
\u25a0

H <S-U, 319th Inf. egt.-vSOth Div..- 11l

Dec,

Mk)

U. 2?ape

{dent if cation Irtinincus i

V/Mhes %y e

The first shipment- of .JOO rolls (2" by 36 'yards per roll) was .received at the Third Army Glass II&TV Depot f Toul. (Manufacturer: Century \u25a0\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0 Lighting Co., New York, JF.Y.) Snail quantities have "been drawn "by field artillery and engineer units. What use the field artillery liad for this" tape was not available. However, the engineers are using it to nark "bridge locations,, "bomb craters, nine fields new roads, etc. To date, no supply units (depots, railheads, gasoline supply points) had draitfn this tape to ' ' * " . \u25a0. use in their operations,. 8 Dec. UU) (1 lit. *. 6lBth Depot Supply Co.

a.

.*

iy, qpxasww&Tm activities

A: BATHING- OPERATIONS, ,80T% DIVISION

At HonborgHaut France, cne platoon of the 859th F eb 3 Co. was operating a shower point for troops rf the 80th Div. who were resting after 102 days of continuous operation, Although this shower point was within 8 piles of the, front line end under artillery fire, the operation was being continued without interruption.. About 1500 n.en were being showered daily, and at the sane tine each nan -was- being issued- a clean set of underwear and one pair of socks. One platoon of the 899th Csi Laundry Co., serving the 80th Div., was also laundering daily the soiled underwear and socks being collected at the shower point, A lieutenant froa the office of the division Quart c master, 80th Div., was acting as liaison officer anong all units cf the Division and, the shower point, scheduling the units, to provide a sneoth flow rf troops to be showered,
'
*'\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0

The details of the showering procedure were: The soldiers first filed through a clothing tent whore they secured a set of clean underwear., and one pair of socks. The undershirts are issued in sizes of snail, nediun or" large, Underdrawers and socks are issued according to regular sizes*- A stock of these iteris is naintained for 2,00,0 nen. Iron this point nen go to a dressing tent which is arranged to handle 28 nen. There are three' such tents. In rotation fron* the three dressing tents, the nen nove in groups of 28 to the one shower tent. This tent has 28 shower ' heads* Hen are pernitted fron 7 to 10 ninutes for a shower. After the shower the nen return to the sane dressing tent. Fron this, point the nen pass a laundry collecting tent where the soiled laundry -is deposited in barracks\bags ? The sergeant in 'charge of this shower point stated that, only 28 shower heads were used in a tent because that was the naxinun .'.,,. 1. r tiunber of heads v/hich could be used to supply adequate hot water. The tenperature in this ar.,ea hag been ranging fron freezing to near freezing .,. Today was appro x,inat eiy- J6 F. (12 Dec. UU)
\u25a0

..

'

B.
;\u25a0.\u25a0\u25a0:;\u25a0.

SALVAG-E OOIiIiEQT-XOljr QPE&iTIOI?

,

- SPHIBD 4B*ff

The, .following' I'eccrd -(Annex No. 3) represents the total number xf pieces by item .processed by all Qpi Salvage Ccllecting Cos, in the Third Arny --during. 'the period -of 29 July kh through 30 Novenber ,!xb , The conpani.es taking a part 'in- these operations, were? ,
1

.';.23'sth Qivi Salvage' Collecting Co, 29 July to 30 Nov. UU ": \u25a0'".aasth, n -'18 Aug to 30 Nov. UU . . '- 5 \u25a0Oct. to 30 Nov. UU 237th'" \u25a0\u25a0"-.- \u25a0
\u25a0'

"

""' -

"

-17

UliuLnuull ILII

<$i Field Observation Report ITo #

Attention

9 (cont)"

period and all were Class,. X

tcatj.'cn %of Quart master is directed to the 'actual class if usage . and the 'potentiality 'o1f thfcs factor 'as reflected items after "battlefieldin the consumption figures on each item./ Fore'xanple', -..on high consumption, of the 29922 raincoats salvager-only 6,695 were, available for future use; on low consumption, of the- 13*971 overcoats salvaged ijj>;77 9 were available for future use* The desirability and preference', cf an item; night be indicated in the combat jac&etS enly 66 were, salvaged during this entire
:'olf:

'

The salvage collecting procedure .is for the units to deliver the supply rpoint when picking up .rations. A detachment salvage to a Class I

\u25a0

from a salvage collecting company transports the salvage to the yard. There is normally one yard per.' e.or|>s, ,'\u25a0 At the salvage yard the items are first classified by service-s, aAd'mtin^quarternast.er/items^ are- sent to -the respective services. The quatterEm ; terns -are scrted''and' classified as Class B, C st%r--i : or X material. The CiaJsis" & Material is either I'aundered'i &ry~cleaned (overcoats) or fumiga"tdd" :("'Sh^es) and. shipped,, -.to the II&IV Depot.- Class C material- is' -laundered-or fumigated and' s-'eht 'to' :a salvage repair company. The Class -X material Ms neither .laundered her fumigated, '> v/:"y and is sent to ASCZ, (See A&nex Ho,- 3) '.-

. ...

\u25a0

C,

&BAVES REGISTaATJOIT GO.

j/p .&'%. m^SIOIS

, suggests the The Army Graves- Registration-' Cifficer, Third : following revisions be considered in the. T/O & B cf the Graves Eegistra-ticn Cc , These suggestions are based on reco^.endat ions from the company ;. commanders, of the G-raves Hegistraticn Cos. operating in the Third Army area and 'en the observations of the Third Army -G-RS officer. The following information has, been extracted from- reports by this officer to the Third
Army

Qfr.

..

\u25a0

\u25a0,

* * * * * "*
lessons

..'',;\u25a0
'
>jc

* * * * * *

'

\u25a0

yearned 'HcveniDer ,' 19UU

f

Equipment :
1

I. Knive s t. s triffping: Knives are reo.uired-'in order tc expeditiously . search bodies:- for identification and effects, Presuimbly the kniife should'"
have a large handle, similar to. that ussd'rn the present : issue sheath knife, with a blade not exceeding 5!!---** length. The- knife could be 1 straight r sharpened en cne side only, -but the use of a curved blade based en the design-of a roef ing knife might prove most satisfactory. The knife in this case must have a curve bending down from the handle, making a hook effect, which would be especially useful in entering pockets. A curve in the reverse direction, as found in-a boning knife, has been tried and found to be -extremely ineffective. Knives, if available, should be issued on the basis of 2l|.. per company. \u25a0;'.
\u25a0\u25a0,

'

Qlip beards would be crnvenient for field work, and on the process liirie,, issued en the- basis of two (2)' per platoon, total eight (8) per company* . .;-\u25a0;\u25a0'
; \u25a0

3;-* Fortyr-eight (US) short handled spades similar to tile.spades sHould;.be issued to supplement available tools. The' blade should be straight and narrow, with a square ,point which nay be sharpened. In many types cf sjeidb the digging of graves with- long handled shovels is, not satisfactory.

wj.d6 and 1U1; long shcul-d be issued to facilitate the ' . lowering of bodies' -into' 'the graves, \u0 84.
U,: Webbing strap.s

2?

Surgeons .rubber rgXbv'es are net practicable, r 3ieciricians gloves are ingots had a waffled % satisfactory but would be inprov-ed-.if tl}e pa^-m and i or rough finish to reduce the lack of friction and facilitate handling*

5.

I
J

QH Field Observation Repertj:*. 9- (cont)

2ugh surfaced

rubberized canvas

or' fiber

glfves are suggested.

Personnel:
i

1, One (l) l-.edical IICO in each Section should "be given training and classified as a dental technician, A change in T/O should "be made if necessary to include an individual with this type of training.

2. She present T/O calls for seventeen (17) Si! with the SSltf 055 (Clerks General) The 055 is needed in the company headquarters only, if at all. G-raves Registration work requires the services of clerks-vtypists , not clerks, general, and such a change in the T/O should "be considered.

Army

G-raves Registration Officer Third U.S. Army

#**#**#:*******#

Recommendation
Army

for G-raves Registration Companies 3y Graves Registration Officer Third IT. S. Army

Equipment : The authorized allowance of equipment as listed in current T/E's is inadequate .to a certain extent for G-raves Registration Companies. The. following are additional items required for the unit to operate
efficiently:

Transportation: .An additional twelve (12) one (l) ton trailers ton truck now assigned. The j/k should "be added, one (l) for each ton trucks now assigned can hardly "be used to transport the dead and personnel with equipment of the section. If for rid p'ther reason, trailers should "be added as they are the best means for transporting^ the- dead.

al

3/U

Typewriters: Four (k) additional typewriters (standard) should be added to that now authorised. The tremendous amount of paper work involved in the preparation of forms, reports, receipts, etc., require eight (o) typewriters to be in use constantly*

c. . Tent age:

authorized (four (v) tents, wall small) is inadequate cover

for office requirements
\u25a0

Four (v) tents, large wall, should be added.

Tentage now
>

of the company when operating a cemetery,

s *ti cellanecras

Equipment:

. , (l) Tables, folding: Hone now authorized; minimum of fifteen (15) are required. (^ lanterns: Insufficient number authorized; allowance should "be increased from five (5) to ten (10) per company, or a generator should be p-,4.v ,-- + , j-s^w.^^g,, m n i-cv- -biae office of the G-raves Registration Company operates twenty-four (?u) hours a day. " . (3) Shovels and picks: Two hundred (2CO) shovels and one hundred (100) picks RR should be authorised in addition to the forty-eight (l|2) shovels now authorized. (U) Graves Registration companies should be equipped with enough GRS materials (Covers, mattress, "pc bags, G-R Form #1, etc,), to handle tyro thousand (2000) burials in order to open a cemetery. (5) Latrine screens (six(6)) should be provided for screening the
*.

processing

. (6)

areas.

Army

Materials. (7) Lnits working in cemeteries need overshoes in all climates the year around, i^ud is #ften knee deep.

supply of GrES

Class ll. and IV Depots should maintain a thirty (30 )

\u25a0'-."\u25a0;

day

Ulfiijfc.j k%fl
Q}i Field Observation Report Kg,
h

*
m

ifjjy

9 (cent)

Personnel:
grade of Staff Sergeant A At least four (U) qualified morticians in the invaluable, are -in? identifying should "be included in the.T/O. Their services at the-ceme At least fifty per cent of the unknowns received unknowns. . . \u0084 teries have "been identified thru the- work of these, men.
;

calls for a Ist Lt.t -Civil Engineer. .If the vacancy .couXd. ; be filled his services could be of great value. If.it is impossible^ to dropped from the have an officer wth'.th@se' qualifications he should be substituted. So,-far officer, of t/0 and an RegistrationGraves Registration experience Army have not had.; a/ companies operating, in.this. all Graves . ; .. Civil Engineer. .-. .
3,

.-The

T/O

\u25a0

* * * * * *, * ** *\u25a0 * * ******

PIT D. SALVAGE REPAIR CQfriPAIUBS, PRODUCT IFIGURES, THIRD ARIH The figures shown" in Annex No. U report the actual repair and service work accomplished by Third. Army i#*i salvage repair units over the indicated periods of* tine. Usually the repair work from one corps is channelled to one repair company.
The varying "week ending" starting dates denote the time when the company .started operations with the Third Army. Note that
one platoon of the 33Hth Service Co. has- been trained and used very
successfully to assist in the repair and conversion of the M-1937 fire
units, lanterns, one and two burner stoves, immersion
heaters and hand
pumps.

ROBERT M. LITTLBJOHN
Chief Quartermaster
Distribution:
OCP>
\u25a0.

Major General, U.S f A,

2*

....;. OCCp, Com Z q>l US Army Q>i Third US .Army , QJI Seventh US Army Cp iTinth ITS Army. (4 Sixth US Army Group. QK Twelfth US Army Grp. Qjti Adv Sec- -Com Zone.... EUIS Team Captains US Army. , CM Fifteenth ..;..,..... Q>! SOLOC Incls: 2
Annex #3 &

IS

1
1

......

1
1
1
1

-80
*

\u25a0%*:.: "i*

#\u25ba

. AEJ-0T <?7AB!TEBMASTE& THIHD -Uin^JCD' STATES AKK?

29

July to

SALVAGE .EEPORT 30 November

Claes

19UU
Class 11 CvC v Class

B"
Ammunition, Caliber

"X"

Total

Air Pump Arctics AxeV general purpose Axe, intrenching Bag, ammunition Bagy barrack
Bag\ duffel Bag, field

.30

2750
IS 121

306

23 92
1

2750 23

Bag, grenade, carrying ; Bag, gas Bag, lister Bag,' water Bag, rocket Bag, sleeping Bar, mosquito Belt, ifeb, waist Self, pistol Belt, cartridge Blanket s Blouse, wool, OD

79 93 9UU 3209 129 105 3 31

182

1099 59

1208

123 U3U BSU

96

39S

22

262

218

722
11

5516

2010

53U

9io 105
1U

Bucket

, canvas

Cap-, wool, OD Capy wool, knit Cap , H3T Cabinet, field range

10536 28U66 7562 k% 16935 6595

3073

16121 USI7

356U

36 uo

16 1309 6238

uou
280

3269 586
2U7
111

15U0

9)

626

1188

36 57 356U 1979U 6u06 IS3OU 3061U

907U
18860 7057 3320 58 1097
3861;

35

1650 ux
1 12

Ui

U2l UO

275

Can; -Orl-' ' Can; water Can, meat Can, gasoline, 5-gal Cari, kerosene, 5"~gal Can, meat, bottom Caii., meat, top Carrier,, rod Carrier, axe Carrier, pickmattocks nt renching Carrier , shovel i Carrier, mess kit Carrier, straps Carrier, pack Canteen Cove 1*; canteen Cove-i*, meat can Cover, wire cutter Chemical warfare Clottis, wash Curtains, gasproof Cot,, canvas Container, food Coveralls, HBT Cup, canteen Drawers , cotton Drawer?, wool
\u25a0

1963

17 57 18U 791 5 133 U8 25 390

ISO

U6U

71
1

UU9 3019 50

371

998

201U 5 50U ioij.6

196

721*
6llj.

16 1357

363 196
1237 UU 310 58SU

13SS7

3690
9860
86
2

326 350 965

60 1250
2oia

756: U7S 1961

!

.25

52X6
2U77 150

U293 55

15510

9571
114
2

2175 8U
12

50

2U77 2375

8U
8

1539 1059 52713.

656
1953
{

68

Drawers , impregnated
Decontaminating,

615U8
25320

773 60

1650s

21266

579 3081

7U752
80009

U2OB

277U

17

5-'

gal

can

3U

1525*

26965
3U

<$d

Observation Report Ho. 9

mm 10, '3;(p.i)

39" t

- 1

'2

Annex No. 3, QK Field Observation Report JsTo

*
/

.9
'

(cont)
Class
HQH
'
\u25a0

Class

Item Dec/on. Funnel

Be con Apparjatus Dripper,' cooking Fire extinguisher Fl&shlight .Fly., tent

.
%

'

\
.-..
:\u25a0

11 3 It

Class Clas

lI^H

Total

39
30
;\u25a0 ,

\u25a0\u25a0

:
'
\u25a0

-\u25a0\u25a0'\u25a07
i"-

Frfc, mess G-as alarm

Grlo-yes

i.ire

vuiit

16:6
.

11

impr egnat Ed ed G-loves, work, cotton ton

G-lt.ves , as"be st 0 s . G-loves , wool , 0D Gloves, leather
t

53
101+77
30

6
35
i+

3 3
'\u25a0\u25a0\u2U
5a0k
2

39
30
7
3

U.

12

9
5*

737

907

2076

1250
?5
211+5

I+l+B
2119

76

12629

59

Haversack
Han^k crchief s

12269
10507

3357 212U
21

mersion Heater, /water, -immersion type ""

;.; .:.;\u25a0 Helmet, -steel ;.'* Ho .d,- gas ;impr egnat ed nated ; Xmp.r fgni tc , sho e Jacket, field Jacket., ccrmlDat
Jacket, HBT Knife, mess gasoline^ \u25a0' Lantern, ngs Legg i , cany aysa s Liner, helmet
;\u25a0
v

150

10638
15793

11

93

U573
U37P
9

2506
2506

18957
15027

U655

Ui

6726

U7S
U

37U0

2026
711+2 66 27

2561

102U0 66

ikhll
IS3SU
2026
U5002
66
933-62
920

27620

100UU
5
170

U6US6

6592S

3303

Mackinaw Mimeograph

Mask, gas Huffier, "CD Net-,.' helmet Uozzle,- gas

Pi ckma-t t.ocks , irenewing ntrenchi ng Pan, top Pan , splash Pipe, stove Pins, tent, shelter er Pack' "board Paulin, canvas Pot, cooking, 5-S al f a lf Pot, cooking, -21j.-gal. gal.
Pole, tent, shelter er Pouch, double we"b B*t, cooking, 20^gal. gal Packets, magazine,, carbine Nt Protective ointment Prophylactic
Protective covers Protective shieldss Pouch, first aid Hack, pot Raincoats Bags
Reels, Signal Scabbard, rifle
Shelterhalf Shield, water can Shirt, wool, OD
Sign, gas

S2S

23751
700

19297

36552
SU9
169

217 217

1 1

231

13367

366
109606

17370
15370.

12f7

1U156
1U
600
17
12US8

121U

U v

Overcoats-

U^U

1291
192

192
19

600
17
13971
:;
\u25a0

IS

695

k -6

k
95U
172

U
12

U56

21 21

M>s

316

17 17

60
6o

650 650

U59 U320

7 7
7 7

IU9

IUIO
ii+lo 193
U
19
9
IUS US2
8

1U32 291

170

h
U2SU 775,

1951
291
U3.20

7269

120

39 39

IUUI

1760

2U227 2U227
350 350

9068

120

170

2655 s
371+23 '

80

6597
19619

72U6

\550a52u

10325
10325

1652s
8
67367

ZQ

29922
350
772
5

misl NO. 3 (p.2).

Q^ Field -Cbeervatiou Eeport No* 9

:>

Annex No. 3, Q>l Field Observation Report No. 9 (cont)

Class Item

"3"

Class C"

Class

Total

Shoes, service (pairs) Shoulder, pads Shovel, D-handle Shovel, intrenching Socks, impregnated Socks, cotton Socks, wool
Spoon,

ITUS
k

2575U

57852

85351
"\u25a0 '

21+1

119015

30236
110
1

6162

975

79

2~burner "burner tent, complete Strap, grenade Strap, Lister Suspenders Sweater, OD Tent, Command-Post Tent, pyramidal Tent, small wall Tent, storage Tent, wall, large Ties, khaki Tool "box Towels Trousers, combat Trousers, EBT Trousers, wool, OD Undershirts, cotton Undershirts, impregnated Undershirts, wool "Typewriter Miscellaneous

Stove, Stove, Stove, Stove,

mess l-burner

2630

1+8132

636 36980
7I+S

SO7

327

IS6I

56S

67216 169777

679s

858

3
12

2 10 20 28

.9

10 12

251
1010

6
2 1

2UU

1252

271 U

v
12 g

73

79

31
/

U5

5
1150
'

13UU

6 U 2U9U

9791

18

275
10

IU2O y

36U71 66171 150U0 65639

53

668U1

21+962 U3363 1356

1565
3298 16

19606
12132

10893

917U

100977

111+86 61+
90727

1260

Totals

59989 103980U

2JX33

53358
U933UU

IUQUBO

87133 17865 81069 69

2U3367

1776515

************* **^* **#********>!******** SiS***********

AMEX NO, 1+ i Field Observation Report No,

9
Clothing

Hoy.

Individual Equipment Footwear Other Items K~1937 Fire Units

Lanterns, gasoline 1 & 2 burner stoves
Immersion heaters

1871

16 lov. 3U55

23 Nov, U307

37U 1066
0

537 USS

U7^ k&9
13

30 Hoy. Total UUS3 IUOS6

391
2

1657

21|0l;

21

Hand pumps Portable typewriter Standard typewriter

: \u25a0\u25a0>\u25a0
\
\

ct O S B et
(P

)
p.

|D

|rtO
U) (D

Po'W'd
1

016 4 H' (D H3H3 W0 4S (D(P3 it M 1I kj"k| [I CD 'd 4 P CDCDP WCI s;s:c*wop Pj (D c+ -" H 4 O H C*H H* H ct ct en <i P to
CDCD CDCD

p,CDOgpitnHric+Hi^oV3
P
M
fQ

d-

>i

[J

*
4

H- P et O 5 P
(D

d- H- ct CD H- H- H--

O 3 rKD P-

]>J H ! D1D1 [0

p I ct O P H c+VJDCDc+H'c+ CD H H* H4 J P
M
fcrj

riO

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_.*

Office of th6".:Chi6f Quartermaster

!

Quartermaster

Field Observation Seport

$0

,.

v*v

Meld Oftsiervat ion- ilepurt is '* properhe purpose of* this- information collected in this to 'give Theater of dissemination-

regarding Quarfcerma.st er- equipment ,. supply, activities, :-and installations. Contained 'in this report a*re experiences o.f :;. t-y personnel of all -ranks and positions in the use of Quartermaster equipment * Opinions , suggestions , and -recommendations published herein do' not necessarily have the concurrence of this Office. Tis communication is forwarded as information OIvLY.
\u25a0

i-.

amzML
\u25a0*

.Period of Time Covered "by This Report ;\u25a0 .-...._; December 19H.U.
\u25a0
\u25a0

'

\u25a0

December,
''
s

'
f

to

. 3 , Sector From '.fliich Heport Emanated

i

G.
'\u25a0

Seventh U.S. ...... . ffxistiagyVeathfer .-Gofi&j;tiohs> ; Temperatures ranged' Tsetw?n; -' '^- ?SS^l 'i2? *.^^.: P^i*'\u25a0\u25a0I'el ' occasionally C'

Army area.

\u25a0

D. Mature of

idlitary Operations

;; ; $t>rai3lurg ,jT They pushed \u25a0 north along" the "'\u25a0jhi ne' : 6 tHe German fi^rder. ' '-' :tt: >? v Alg^o'd deal of G-crman eauipment''wais .rcapiuf"ed*

aaa

The. Seventh U.S.

Army

made a
'

>

\u25a0\u25a0-'

S.

'lfidlvidTjial rn^erVfewed l Unit's 'and ; S.eve&th-Army Army Asst. G--U

T "\u25a0'

:?

"

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:

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1

' '\u25a0'* f

Sgt* Asst. ' ' ; ' '/ Sixth 'C'rps Quaftrermaste^ :: f ; kji DUKTi CO, Exec, S-U, 10 W- t Bn. Surgeon, and 5 Officers Bn,

(Major) and
'
'
\u25a0

\u25a0

\u25a0j^hird
:. \u25a0;:

.Division

:;

'
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Quarterntasferi 'Sxec,",'^'SO * . Two' P-egt r1 SWlfs ,

r:

c.;'-':.

;-r

-:

3 Infantry Bn. COs

5 Infantry Co. COs
3 Infantry Bn. S-Us 50 ITCOs <fe Ei Infantry 6 'other officers and 25 3 Inf. Bn. Surgeons
14. company supply Sgts
1

6 Sl-i

,,

men

79th Division Cuar t e rma s t er , Exe c., QJt'iSQ ,.Div, O-1+

..-1 Hegt: fi. S-U, 2 other .officers, of; serv. -co,;, 1 Inf. Bn. S-U c Officer in-. harge *af ecuipping replacements
"I P

31Uth Inf,

"PJv..-

\u25a0

\u25a0

\u25a0

\u25a0

<

2 Inf. Ela (103d)

1^

QJ-I

yield Observation Report

No. 8 (cont)

lUth, ArjaorecLDivision I;'Officer,

Chaplain I E& ;6f Ari&ored liif^ntry 3Q

Captain William R. JCugier, QJhC
Ist Sgt Jerome ID. Kamprud
S/Sgt. iiike E. Capadalis

6JM

tankers,

..

F.

Report. Prepared 3;

G-. Uhis was ...the -first vi&lfby this observer to the Seventh U.S. Army. The troops observed -had -some items of equipment- which are not at present in the hands .$ tiie American troops of the first, Third and Ifinth Armies. Especial attention was paid to these items of winter equipment

11,

QLASS I
#

flqst of the troops in the Seventh Ration S ration of a supplemented 10-in-l. The food was good.

--

Army

are on a

3.
well

C Ration
\u2666

liked

Some .of the new menus l^ave "been received and are

Used as ration supplement for operational rations.

C P Ration

la general f this ration was well liked, principally 2* X Ration it was easy -to-., carry and use. because It was reported by the regimental S-14,, 0f the 3il^th Infantry, that several cases of X rations bad been brought to:ifAm in which water had. soared through the wrappings and the contents of the packages were spoiled. He also reported that in one cas-e, eggs of the breakfast unit were spoiled when the can was opened, and Jie Jiad been
shown the contents,
S,

A search was made for samples, but none were found.

lO^inrrl Ration The men commented that there was not enough in a 10--in-l ration to feed ten men. This complaint has been heard before, and the-men* most usually of this opinion are those who eat in small groups. (2 Co, Commanders, 6 men, 15th Inf.) %&c Kits All. cf the men observed have been receiving* their cigarettes, candy and toilet articles regularly. Issue of fchese items was observed in the 31Uth Inf. Regt and they were using BAQ Kits,

*r

111.

CI^SS II'& IT
At/ Clothing
\u25a0\u25a0"

~ The men of 1. Shoes the lUth Armiored Div. were almcst entire!^' equipped with Type 111 shoes. They complained" about net; "being rble to waterproof them properly, and even though -there was ye'ry- little moisture en the ground, nearly all men were weairing their shoepacs 3 carrying the shoes in their duffel bags. (l Officer, 6 El-i Tankers, 10 it Armd. |nf. Itttth Armd. Div.)

an

2. Over.shoes Due to the fact .thait shoepacs are not available in sufficient quantities in sizes 6, 7 and S, owershoes were issued in lieu of these sizes. Supply of regiment composc-d of men of Japanese origin was given as explanation fcr heavy issue of small sizes. (Officer of Seventh Army &-U Office).

_ 3< Boots, Combafr ..- . i-lost of the men in the 3 rd D-iv f were equipped with combat beets. They have these available in the battalion supply, train and alternate wearing them or the shoepacs, depending upon
*\u25a0\u0084.
j

.*.

\u25a0\u25a0(\u25a0\u25a0.

'

>**7- ? ;-*,
V*

Q^i Field Observation Report Ho. 8 (cont)

\u25ba

-A complete the type o.f ..action and weather conditions "be made easily in a day. -The men complained, that ...when' of dubbing on the- combat boots it made them very- cold,, dubbed, heavily, the -sho.es would leak. (Regt'lV S~U; 3n. CO;'- Bn, S-U;3 Co. Cos; io rtfenr 15th
1
%

change-over can
they put a lot
and- even '/hen

Shoepacs About 75/^ - tne troops of Seventh Army' are" ;'; ' ' I'early all of the infantry are so equipped. equipped v;ith shoepacs, There is at present a shortage of sizes 6, 7 and S, and overshoes have been substituted for these sizes. Host men would rather 'have "the -shoepac than any other item for cold, wet weather. Some complaints that t?pen heard involve the difficulty of getting a good fit. A good have many men took a half size larger when their normal shoe size is a half, size (for 8-| shoe toak 9 shocpac) For even number size the men took the same size (9 for 9) .' Proper combinations of socks and .innersoles are difficult to obtain and most men thought if they could get the right size socks they 'could get a good fit in their shoepacs. ; Another complaint Wjas that th.c feet sweat excessively. In the infantry units getting a cl.can pair of ski socks about once a week. Very the men were few carried an extra pair with them. One infantry regiment issued an extra pair tc each man to be carried, and found that most of these were lest. The men of the ]>rd. Div. were in a 'relatively quiet sector along the banks of the Rhine and could take their shoepacs off once a day/ The men we/r.e instructed, tc do this, and' many company commanders held, daily: \u25a0'\u25a0 foot inspections.. The men insist that there are a, great many- times when it is, impossible .for , them to take off their "shoes several days at. aThe regimental S-U of the ~(th. Infantry, 3rd'Div. said "that they '.\u25a0 time. only issued socks when they knew the -men would have 'a chance to put thejn- on, and thought that ence a week was often encugh. Hany men thought- *l;hat some sort of arch support was needed .with ,the shoepacs. A few .men hsr d improvised arch' supports and heel lifts with pieces 'of cloth and felt, and various' combinations of- socks ana pieces of "cloth" were noted. Lifts The chief point- -of dis and supports were put under the felt innersole. comfort. * dth the shrepacs is.'that blisters wear' at the heels. There d-s' ; a ridge where the leather. upper '..jf4ns the rubber foot of the shoepac', and many men blamed" this for the blisters' on their heels. Some men" cut the feet. out. of a. pair, of light-wool, socks and wear them over the heel to ' get another layer -of cloth*".
\u25a0

luf. -jrd

Very little trench foot is being encountered according to three infantry battalion medical officers, 3rd Div, They stated that However, the shoepa.es were, a great help, in reducing cases of -trench fcot they had had srmh' t,r nu.~blc with men getting blisters and whatf-^ne -doctor called "excoriation" The latter" is caused by having the feet wet fro 2l sweat in the sho^pacs for long periods cf time so that -they' become soft and wrinkled, "hen" men walk with their feet in this" condition "the bet terns cf their feet become sore. The doctor said that some of these cases were.' report pd as trench fact It is uncc mfor table, but is not serirus if the .Eian gets medical attention. The men who were. -having this trouble. were, getting a .clean pair of ski socks about once every .any. 0if. them had lost their extra pair cf felt, inner week or ten days. I soles and wore the same ones every day. They did net carry' an extra ' pair cf socks. (3 Bn. Hed. Officers , 3rd Div,; 10 Officers and 30 H;, Infantry, 3rd Div., " 79th Div., and lUth Armd. Div.) .

..

...
-

Some of the men interviewed kept bcth pairs of innersoles in the shcepacs tc enable t.hcm. to get a better" fit, Hen whe only used o'ne;p'srr'hav;e, in niany cases, lost the' extra pair-. In the llith Armored Div ?. the men found that they could' dry their extra inner--' scles on the engines of tanks. Infantrymen have been using campfires, etc. for.- this purpose. Very few of the men carry the inncrsolcs urajer their ' " ""\u25a0

5. lnnersole.s,' Pelt

(10 Officers, 30 2H, Inf. and Tank, 3rd p%.

*-3

shirts.^

V IjL^'
I

**

I^^ Armd *

v )

Q>i Field Observation Report ITc, 8 ,(cont) 6, 'Socks, Wool, Ski . '.The. most common combination of socks
\u25a0. worn was. one pair of ski socks with one pair of lightweight wool, or
cushion sole socks, Other combinations were, ski socks alone, two pair ,
of ski socks, two pair of ski socks over one pair of light wool. Proper
size socks was stressed as important, Those too large are uncomfortable,
and when -pulled" up* over the heel wear out very fast. It was noted' that
even when the- -seeks fit'-properly there was a great deal of wearing out at
the. heel, and samples of s^me of these socks were obtained. There may
"be a high consumption. In order to keep clean socks coming up to the
men it is necessary tc have- three or four pair cf ski seeks per man in
the regiment (3rd Div. QM, 2 Hegt'l Sup, ; Officers, 3rd Div., 1 Hegt r l.Sup,- Officer,
;'.
79th Div., 30 EX). .
\u25a0

OP The Seventh Army,^1 stated

that those trousers will "be issued to most of the infantry troops within
a few weeks. A regiment of the 79th Div. is now wearing H3T twp-*piece
suits over the OD uniform. They stated that the water-repellent outer
trousers were needed. The HBT trousers are equipped with cargo pockets,
"but the men did not feel- that this was an essential feature for the
trousers, cotton, field and they preferred getting the trousers soon to
having cargo pockets.
(10 Officers, 20 11, y infantry , 3rd Div. & 79th Div.)

7. Trousers, Cotton, .Field,

Trousers, Combat These are still being issued tc the

Army and are very well liked. Most of the
armored units of the- Seventh infantrymen questioned stated that the trousers, cotton, field would "be
more adaptable to their use than the trousers, ccmbat , but they all felt
that they needed, some additional item for the winter.
(b S-I, lUth Armd . Div ; 20 Eh, infantry, Jrd. Div.)

3,

..

~ Men of the Cargo Pockets for Trousers 79th Div, who were
wearing fatigue trousers which had cargo pockets were using them for
toilet articles, grenades and miscellaneous items. They thought that the
present cargr. pocket was too tight at -the top, and while some of them
.liked the idea of cargo pockets, few of them thought they were essential,
'These men were net carrying any type of pack. They carried a raincoat
rver the back of their belt and depended on the company bringing up their
blankets at night. They felt that the pockets on the jacket, field,
I-<-19U3 and the ordinary pockets cf whatever trousers they were, wearing
v-uld be sufficient.

9.

(6 Eh, 79th Div,)

liner, Pile, for Jacket , Field These have not yet

been issued but will be issued to the infantry troops when they become
available. At present mest of the overcoats are left with battalion
rr regimental supply trains except when troops are in a stable position.
A few pile liners were seen, and troops who had seen them -thought . very
highly cf them. They were wcrn as a liner fcr the h-19U3 field -jacket
and the men who had them did not use overcoats. . .
(2 2egtf ! Sup. Officers, 3rd Div; 3 Officers, Eqs 7th Irmy-; .QJiy 7tfc Army).
l.

Sweaters, Highneck, r/orl All of the troops, .observed

have this sweater and like* it. i-iany men are wearing it under their shirts

and think that it gives them extra warmth. (tO Officers, JO Eh, 3rd, 79th Divs., and lUth Armd. Div.)

\u25a0

,..'

These hoeds^have bee'rt issued to most. of the Infantrymen and ether troops interviewed.. They
had only .had them for :a -few days but liked them
very much. Some men have ; sewn linings of wool or fur inside the hoods. Hoods were seen tc be fastened to the old style field jacket as well as the K-19U3 jacket, and

12. Hoods for Jacket, Field, &-19U5

<

\u26 6

*>

*>,

Gsi Jield OV-servation Report Ho. 8 (cont)

.t

7,'"

this appeared(10 Officers,'

'to work

sat isfactorily

3CM&V

3rd;
r

79th

D'ivs.,. and lU'th 'Armd, Div.)

U.S.

of the troops of the Seventh have this jacket. Some of the men in the armored division had this-' jacket; some in addition to the tanker's combat jacket. The color, ' desiga.and pockets are well liked, and in combination with the pile" liner, shirt and trousers, wool OD, and trousers,, cotton, field, most of %Wq men thought it would make an ideal winter combat "suit, ;' : Div.).* (lQr .Officers r 3-0 SM, 3rd, 79th Divs. , and'lkth

13., Jacket
!

Field H-19U3

-
hrst

Army

\u25a0

;; *lLi. -:3?r>nohos.' Some had "been issued, for experimental purposes \u25a0last- winter to one battalion of the 30"^ Infantry 'in place-. of raincoats.. They were fighting on the Anzio beachhead. Officers of this same division that- the p.,richos had proved to be a success as a. combat garment r^orte-d \u25a0tr replace" the raincoat (2 Officers,. 3rd Div,')
\u25a0-\u25a0;

'

\u25a0

\u2666

<^<f

Caps, Cotton, Field Army a,nd" are well received Seventh ' ' . two weeks -. (2. Officers,. 10 EX 79th Div.)

~
-

The caps are now being issued in the They have only been in use *" about
r

\u25a0

\u25a0

\u25a0

Huffiera The men arc not equipped with issue mufflers. Host men talked tc said they would like a muffler. Various improvisations were noted,- i..c.. t owls', salvage blankets, personally owned mufflers '' '
received from home;,;.. etc,. (5 Officers, 20 Si;-,/ 3rd, 79th, lUth Armd ? Divs.)

"'

16.

Shell, Trigger Finger, and Inserts liost of the

men interviewed in the. lUth Armored Div, had these mittens and liked them.
Tankers- and- infantrymen both thought they would be able to' fight' in them ; d'said that if it* were necessary they c^uld pull one of them off. Hone an: of the other divi-s-aons visited had anj?" of these mittens, but' several pair of G-erman mittens, were seen on the tiroops.' -The weather at the time was nrt very cold, but they thought that mittens w;ould be a ' good item v^nen it ' ' :.:- . \u25a0di-d get cold. (lO: Officers, 30 Eii, 3rd, 79th Divs. and lUth. Armd,. Div.)

3-7

Kittens,.

\u25a0

\u25a0

\u25a0

18. Oloves, 'fo.ol, If/Leather Palm ~ .At present -temperatures glove is repcrted to be the 'desired hand wear. The main objections this .were that it got v^e't easily, was hard to dry, and the' stitching .in -the f-ihgers \u25a0tore rut when the gloves were worn wet. Consumption of t.his item is high.-' A good many gloves are lost, and officers and- men stated rthat " ; some we-t, ones 'we're -thrown away. :(lO' Officers, 36 12., Seventh- Army Ho s. ; 3rd, 79th, and lUth Armd; Divs J
\u25a0

'\u25a0

\u25a0

IS a.. 'Bag , 'Sleeping, Ifoaly QD -.A large issue of thes.e b.agg.' vras made in the Seventh Army, In the 3 rd Div the troops were using :the -in "and' liked .them. They, were in a stable position and for the most .part slept in buildings or in sheltered places In the lC3d Div. the ,iaeh : we're carrying the sleeping -bags in an advance,. In the i^tla.Dlr, the bags have been held in the battalion supply, train and have not been used by the troops to date.. It was noted that when men first received ,these bags they thought they were tc/c small.. Various ways of putting \u25a0extra blankets into the bags were seen*. TKe most popular way was to pin sah extra blanket around the wocl bag and then to slip this "bag into -the waterproof' co-very If another blanket -was' used it was inserted into the bag, ....:
(10 Officers, 30:H~ Jr-cL, 79th, 103rd Divs f and lUth Armd. Div.)

Q^-I Field Observa^ii&epo'rt ITo. 8 (cent)

'
1

' I i Equigiri ei^t ; ;/< '\u25a0 ':y- : nd3V dual'

\u25a0
\u25a0

*
\u25a0

\u25a0\u25a0

\u25a0

Many of the men .had this ! Carrier; r'eitadfr> Item and liked it.' 'ftie'n -they- did,not us-e it for grenades, they found it
\u25a0

'

al.convenienta

place to carry '. their C. rations, (10 Officers, 30 Sl'l -'3rd, and. 79.th.Divs r ) .'
'

.convenient-

\u25a0

\u25a0\u25a0

'

'

2 'Belt,. jUBr; T :.- Consumpticn of -this item is high due to "battle ;, This it-em. ls reported tc give excellent service and is well; losses ' ' liked. . , ; : .:\u25a0>"\u25a0\u25a0;, ,r . (2 Regt'lf.-Sup;:6fficers;v36 Officers, 10 rEi'i 3rd I)iv.)
\u25a0

\u25a0

-Combai? Faeiksr::^' In tlie 3rd Div. most of the soldiers carry the old type haversack and prefer it to the new type combat pack. Replacements ''usually come-.. equipped with the '-new combat pack: and trade these in at regimental supply for the old type, The main comment about the new ;type was that it 'was thought to be too bulky and not flexible . enough when only a smali load was carried f ken in the 15th Infantry, 3rd Div. carry the sleeping 'bag and one day's rations, and toilet articles In; the. pack; In the' fth Infant ry, 3r<i Div.-.-the sleeping bag is net carried and the men had one blanket and'-'te" shelter half. Ho pack of *ixe men s*^^ c an^^ kind is carried by the infantry cf the 79 th iy They 'toilet, articles and food into "their pockets. small items such as hang their ; raincoats on the rear of their belts and do not carry any blankets or sleeping bags T Packs are carried in battalion supply but are :nsver used. Several men of the.lO3r4 Div, were seen to be carrying the-- sleeping bag tied with a rope and slung over one shoulder. They aa'r.ried the other items they needed in their po.ckets and had no packs-. (10. Officers t 30 m 3rd, . 79th, 103rd Divs. and "-lUth Armd f Jiv.) .

3.*-

C
-\u25a0

Organ! zat i nal Equipment 0i 0

_.

\u25a0

Stoves, Cooking, 'One BurnerMen of the lUth Armored Div. cn&had' these stoves and liked them. Infantrymen did not carry the cn& ; bui:n,er stove, but in several cases had it * stored on a vehicle, either : jeep or track, and used it when in a fixed position. These men did not think that the stove was an item that they would like tc carry. (3rd and 79th Divs,)
-\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0\u25a0'"

:..

2.

factorily.

well. . : '. .' . (10 mess sergeants and cooks) ,

Range, Field, &-1937 -~ These stoves are performing satis satisThe new type generator -has been installed and is working very '
;
\u25a0
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packboard for carrying mor-tars, machine guns and ammunition. All of the jaen.: questioned said that they v/ould rather carry the equipment \u25a0on their* shoulders. Hand carrying is mainly done for relatively short distances and it was much easier to put the gun into operation quickly if it did ncs have., to be : taken off of the packboard. They had tied- the equipment on .tke packboard*. with ropes on the ones they had tried. -.lt- was reported,
1

Officers and men of Co, H, 15th Iftf. 3- Packboard-, Plywood i^heavy v/eapons company) .-were questioned as to the adaptability of ./the

although not: pb served, that some packboards were now in us ; carrying e food .And- ammunition to small units in the forests north of Jiagenau^ " .(.20* Offleers," 10 Eli 3rd,' 79th Divs.) .. ..'\u25a0;\u25a0;

D. General Supplies and Equipment V

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ana

are used almost exclusively with C and X rations. The men think they are very useful and appreciate having then when there is no other means

1-. 'Fuel.' TitbVetfe ,'\u25a0 The m*e'h have used a great- many of the Ifoz : 2 :ote .' fuel- tablets-. The' p-reffefred size vras the \\ oz, tablet They

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Qfl Field Observation Report Xlo, 6 (cont)

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cf getting hot coffee. There wa-s.-'-some objection to the fact that the tablets smoked up cups, but this was not thought very important to the A men* Use has been made of the X ration boxes as a fuel tablet. st^ck cf the German fuel tablets (jSsbit) was captured and issued by the men. It was considered satisfactory. (5 Officers,, 15 men 3rd, 79th Divs.)

activities

Shower Units

Both the

3rd and 79th Divs. have received an S-head shower unit which is carried on a one ten trailer. One is attached to each infantry regiment-,.

They are very well liked, and priors to their issue, various improvised shower units were used to accomplish the same purpose. The regimental said that in order to give baths to troops the unit had tc be up S^U with the regiment, lien come out of the line for short periods of time and in small groups. He' thought that a division was too large a unit to have the shower, and too many men would be gathered together which is a very bad feature near the front lines. All of the regiments were also operating a complete clothing exchange in conjunction with the shower unit. They carried about 3Q00 suits of clothing in the regiment. The 79th Div, was sending its laundry tc corps, and said they got prompt service. The 3 rd Div,. Qa was operating a civilian laundry in Strasburg.
The Jth Inf. Regt t , 3rd Div. operated a small .laundry unit of its awn
They washed blankets, socks,
which took care of tfre entire regiment, clothing, and sometimes web equipment.- This unit has operated sveh a
laundry since the Italian campaign,

3rd Piv t; SVu,. 7th Inf., 3rd Div.; <#i, 79th Div.; -
\u25a079th Div^'lO Officers, 30 H4 3rd & 79th Divs.)
($H
: B^ Graves 'Eegistfatinn

S~U,

Jlitth

Inf..,

& Effects

The: 7th- Inf^ Be'gt* operates a very elaborate system of keeping track of The soldiers have what they call .a "ditty" tHe' effects of i-Ijs 'personnel, bag % which' is stored with regimental supply when the company Is in the line* It is about "a foot square, made of salvaged shelter halves, and ilias a drawstring at 'the top. When a man' is slightly wounded his bag is held 'within the regiment. If he stays in a hospital he may reouest his belongings* through Effects Quartermaster and they will be sent. All effects of men seriously wounded or killed are sent to the rear. This regimental S~U stated that he had had about" 15O00 men iii'his regiment altogether and that an accurate system cf keeping track of their effects within the regiment was absolutely necessary so that men could get what belonged to them, hest of the trouble is had with wounded men trying t'n locate' their belongings, and with his system he can tell where the , : ..\u25a0-- .. men's things arc. :-. \u25a0;. * (5-Ur 7th Infantry Segt , 3rd Div.)
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IT. I-iISCSLMiEOUS
A. i-iaintenance Factors large consumption of C^v items,
'\u25a0y

This section v/ill point out unusually

The"sock t 'wool t: "skj[ -has- been . noticed to 'be , wearing out at the' heel after a-pericd of wear 'cf .only twe or three weeks,. The 3 i>Lrth Infantry had marched about T5 miles in shoepacs a- few days' before-- the observer visited them/ Their salvage pile corita^hed several .do sen oairs r. f. socks, woq^,aws^,;\ti|^,!.]|,^rg.a,|f.9l^S;,at the heel. :'The S-U' Said these sreks had"' never teen washed^' Samples' arc bqin^ :\u25a0forwarded -with- Shipm&nt 110 ., 12 of enemy equipment.
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Qji Field Observation Bepcrt ITo,. 8 (cant)

-ga^ni;- ,- -.Thtf. is another item on . " \u25a0 \u25a0/-\u25a0\u25a0 2j. Glove ,,.^polt is'/higi ctf-nsumptirn/- .-,-Wjjii^ the glove is generally well which -there' like&tMf gets .wet easily and rwhenrsrorn wet, the stitching in the fingers tears, out easily. \u0084A- laifgeMiuiaDer -of t^ese'-gloves are lost and' officers and; men stated that many -wet rrxcs =are thrown away.. (10 Officers, JG'M .3rd,' ; fr.and iuth Arm4. Div.) 79th
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aT'/ay;*..

Inner,soles -3 -

(10 Officers,. 30 Sli

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"raining of ;^rmy training,. in the use of winter equipment in conjunction with the Array Gv-3 training-.; --Retails- for the trainirig program are still under discussion* (Qi-*i Seventh 'U.sv Army) ,/\u25a0\u25a0-,. . . -. (.'>._
\u25a0

. - 3rd, 79th Divs.'and iUth Armd.. Div.) - The Seventh CJ* is initiating a program
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r-^glt- : -> :

IA good nany of these are "being lost or

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EGBJET i-i, LITTLEJOELJ iia^cr G-eneral, JJ.S.;ii '. "

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Ql^Mnth tfc An3y.v;.. t Q|:'i Sixth US Army Group

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EiliS Team-C aptains.

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Ql'l Adv Sec Ccm Zone...

Twelfth US^rmy G"rp' '1

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