Tue Oct 25, 2016 17:53
The table was part of a large rectangular chest that was used for records keeping at an Aid Station in the field. The chest (Chest #4) was set up where the clerk could order supplies, record who came through the Aid Station, etc and keep the unit's records. The table (similar to a card table) and stools were for the medics and unit surgeon to complete their paperwork - not normally for treating casualties. The table, when folded, fits inside the chest so it can be carried on a truck without getting damaged. In short, the whole chest unfolds and makes an open-air office for the clerk to work in. There were several chests like this the Army used - each one had a different function (bandages, smaller medical supplies, etc - even a portable dental lab or dentist's chair)
David J. Little
President, Tenth Mountain Division Living History Display Group
Secretary, Tenth Mountain Division Foundation
Board Member, Tenth Mountain Resource Center
Past Webmaster, National Association of the Tenth Mountain Division