Bivouac

Camp Sites:

The ideal camp site should have plenty of pure water, grass turf and easy access to good roads. It should be of ample size to afford room for dispersion and easy concealment from enemy observation. During hot weather shady areas, free from underbrush, are desirable . (Dusty, polluted or damp soil, stagnant water and dry stream beds, should be avoided. During actual combat, however, battle conditions may necessitate the use of inferior camp sites)

The Shelter Tent:

1. The shelter tent ordinarily provides shelter for two (2) men and is used extensively in field problems and under combat conditions. Two tents may be pitched together forming a double shelter tent. Use of the double shelter tent conserves space and is occupied by four (4) men. It affords additional warmth during periods of extreme cold.

2. When on Bivouac, you and your tentmate will normally pitch your tent where it will be concealed from possible enemy observation. Pick a dry place on high ground. (All principles of tent pitching apply except that there will be no attempt to align them.) ditch should be constructed immediately even though you expect to remain only a single night. In cold or windy weather the dirt from the ditch should be carefully banked around the tent, which is placed with the closed end into the wind. During rainy weather, loosen the guy ropes to prevent the tent pegs from pulling out. In any event the tent pins should be securely driven in.

Bed-Making:

Take time to make a good, comfortable bed. It will make better sleeping possible.

H. Personal Care and Comfort:

1. Wet Clothing

Remove wet clothing immediately upon reaching camp. Put on dry clothes if possible; otherwise dry out your wet clothing before a fire. If even this is impossible, remove clothing and wring out carefully.

2. Shoes

Dry your shoes by placing warm, not hot, pebbles inside them. Do Not Place Damp Shoes Next To A Fire. Shoes should be oiled while they are dry to keep then waterproof and pliable.

3. Feet

As soon as possible after reaching camp, wash your feet with soap and water. Dry your feet carefully, especially between the toes. Until feet are hardened, dust them with G.I. foot-powder secured from your Supply Sergeant. After washing your feet, put on a clean pair of socks. Wash out the soiled pair.

I. Camp Sanitation:

1. Water

a. Be careful of the water you drink. Do not drink
any water from a stream, well or faucet until it
has been certified as pure by a Medical Officer and
a sign posted to that effect.

b. Drink from your own cup or canteen, Only. (Do Not Exchange pipes, cigars, cigarettes, towels or shaving equipment.)