Mules and Donkeys in the Marines...
This is a Fox News report which doesn't really surprise me much at all.
My father who loved books gave me a couple of books he acquired when he learned of my intense fondness for mules and donkeys.
One book is published by the War Department Office of the Quartmaster-General. The book was originally revised in 1916 by order of the Secretary of War, H. L. Scott, Major General, Chief of Staff.
It was reprinted in 1981.
It is called: Manual of Pack Transportation
Published by Quail Ranch Books, Santa Monica, CA.
It literally is a 'how to' manual of packing Howitzers, ammunition, and even how to use a mule as a one or two stretcher ambulance.
In our day and age of high tech and mobility, it seems the US Forces goes back to learning the value of the mule and donkey.
The long ears have had a place in military campaigns for many many years as far back as the Civil War mules have been in the service. [I'm not a History buff, so if I am incorrect feel free to do so.]
We come around full circle back to mules [and donkeys].
My hat is off to these often not very well appreciated members of our Armed Services.
Another interesting site to read:
Horses and Mules During WWII
Have you ever seen the video "The Complete Mule"? Among other things, it talks about the military mule. You will need to keep some tissues handy if you watch it. The mules, even though they served their country well, didn't come home with our soldiers after WWII. Some very sad footage, but it really tells the complete story. I recommend it highly!
ReplyDeleteI found a site that still carries this older video called "The Complete Mule". It's expensive, but here's the web address if you have an interest.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.drivingessentials.com/books_breeds.html
thank you!
ReplyDeleteyes my uncle told me what happened to many of the american mules, he served in the calvary in WW II.
Thank you for your reference to the Olive-Drab.com section on horses and mules in WW II. Few people today realize the extent to which pack animals were used as recently as WW II, especially by countries less mechanized than the U.S. The wonderful animals made a huge contribution and were beloved by the men who worked with them.
ReplyDeleteThere are other sections with more photos and information, starting here:
Military Horses and Mules
Thank you again,
Chuck Chriss
Editor
Olive-Drab.com LLC
Chuck, thank you as your site is very informative!
ReplyDelete