A number of Tents, called General-Purpose Tents, were specifically intended for use by the Medical Department with the purpose of protecting and sheltering wounded and/or injured personnel and medical installations. It must be noted that this equipment was manufactured and issued by the Quartermaster Corps.

TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, HOSPITAL WARD, OLIVE-DRAB, 6-FOOT, 2-INCH DOOR, QMC Stock No. 24-T-319-5:

This Tent is used as a Section of a Field Hospital. It is standard equipment for Clearing Companies, Surgical Hospitals, Evacuation Hospitals, Convalescent Hospitals and certain Veterinary installations. The Hospital Ward has a capacity for TWENTY canvas cots or TWENTY-FIVE litters. It also replaces an earlier model (with cut-back doors) which is to be issued until supplies are exhausted. The tent is 16 feet wide, 50 feet long, and 12 feet high. Floor space is 800 square feet  It is hip-roofed, has square ends and is rectangular in shape. Ridge height is 11 feet, wall height is 4 feet 6 inches, giving a 6-foot 6-inch pitch. The Tent, FR, Hospital Ward has two 6-foot 2-inch vertical doors located in the center of each end section, and is provided with a Fly for issue in Theaters of Operations. This Fly measures 26 feet ½ inch by 53 feet 11 ½ inches. The Hospital Ward Tent is ventilated through round holes at the top of the center poles, through the stovepipe openings (when stoves are not used), and through the doors at either end of the tent. Three M-1941 Tent Stoves are provided for use with this tent, and related stovepipe openings are built on one side of the ridge line with protecting canvas flaps. The Officer or NCO in charge will select a suitable ground and designate the direction in which the Hospital Ward Tent is to face. He will then place a marker for the right front corner pin. The Tent is pitched by a detail of 8 men in approximately 90 minutes.

Hospital Ward elements:

4 X Hoods, Tent, Hospital Ward – Stock No. 24-H-63
8 X Lines, Tent, 50-Feet, Sewed-Two-Ends, Cut-Splice-In-Center, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Guy Line) – Stock No. 24-L-610
12 X Lines, Tent, 15-Feet, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Hood Line) – Stock No. 24-L-575
40 X Lines, Tent, 10-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-540
22 X Lines, Tent, 2-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Fastener) – Stock No. 24-L-470
20 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Fastener) – Stock No. 24-L-480
68 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inch – Stock No. 24-P-59
56 X Lines, Tent, Foot Stop, ¼-Inch Diameter (Foot Stop) – Stock No. 24-L-448
4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 4-Feet, 9-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-235
4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 6-Feet, 2-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-242-75
4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 12-Feet, 3-Inches, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-266
56 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-49
4 X Chains and Plates, Tent, Hospital Ward & Pyramidal – Stock No. 24-C-570
16 X Hooks, Tent, End, Hospital & Pyramidal, ¼-Inch – Stock No. 24-H-165
16 X Hooks, Tent, S, Style 1, Tent, Hospital & Pyramidal – Stock No. 24-H-172
4 X Rings, Tent, Galvanized, Hospital Ward, 10-Inch – Stock No. 24-R-80
68 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070
4 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Flap Line) – Stock No. 24-L-479-50
4 X Lines, Tent, 6-Feet, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Lacing Line) – Stock No. 24-L-500
12 X Lines, Tent, 14-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Corner Line) – Stock No. 24-L-565

FLY, FIRE-RESISTANT, TENT, HOSPITAL, HOSPITAL WARD, OLIVE-DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-F-110:

The corresponding Fly used for above Hospital Wards was also issued in the Theaters of Operations (but not in the continental United States, except when housing patients). The Fly itself measures 26 feet ½ inch by 53 feet 11 ½ inches. It is mainly used for enhanced protection of the Hospital Ward Tent.

Fly elements(when used individually):

12 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 5-Feet, 5-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-240
4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 7-Feet – Stock No. 24-P-245
56 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
44 X Lines, Tent, 10-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-540
12 X Lines, Tent, 14-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Corner Line) – Stock No. 24-L-565
56 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070

TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, SURGICAL TRUCK, OLIVE-DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-T-321-40 (MD Item No. 99583, later amended to Item No. 9959000):

Introduced in 1943, this Tent unit is designed to fit over the body of a Surgical Truck. It is used as an Emergency Operating Center in forward combat areas. The Surgical Tent is 22 feet wide, 26 feet long, 10 feet high, and has a floor space of 481 square feet. There is no Ridge Pole, since the truck itself supports the top of the tent, but there are extra upright poles, eave lines and pins. The center front section is attached by means of web straps to metal buckles on the front end of the truck, while extra guy lines are run from the ridge to metal hooks on the outside of the truck’s headlamps for added security. The Tent has only one door, 5 feet 7 ½ inches high and 4 feet 8 inches wide, located in the rear center, opposite the front of the truck. There are three blackout curtains.It takes a detail of 4 men 30 minutes to erect this Tent.

Surgical Tent elements:

10 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 5-Feet, 8-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-241
12 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
22 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-49
2 X Lines, Tent, 20-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-One-End, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Ridge Tie Line) – Stock No. 24-L-581-45
4 X Lines, Tent, 14-Feet, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Awning Tie Line) – Stock No. 24-L-564-40
12 X Lines, Tent, 11-Feet, 6-Inches, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-550-30
1 X Line, Tent, 10-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Front Blackout Flap Tie) – Stock No. 24-L-543-45
2 X Lines, Tent, 9-Feet, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Upper Front & Rear Blackout Curtain Tie Lines) – Stock No. 24-L-529
4 X Lines, Tent, 7-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Lacing Line) – Stock No. 24-L-513
22 X Lines, Tent, Foot Stop, ¼-Inch Diameter (Foot Stop) – Stock No. 24-L-448
12 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070

TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, SURGICAL, OPERATING, OLIVE-DRAB, HEAVY, QMC Stock No. 24-T-321-35:

This Tent consists of 5 Sections. Its length is 50 feet, width is 18 feet, while height is 11 feet 1 ¼ inch. The 5 different Sections consist of one end Section No. 1, another end Section No. 2, and 3 middle Sections, of equal dimensions, which can be subdivided in separate operating rooms, if necessary. This Tent version became Limited Standard, (i.e. to be issued until exhausted) and was subsequently replaced by the following version.

TENT, FIRE-AND-MILDEW-RESISTANT, SECTIONAL, HOSPITAL, QMC Stock No. 24-T-323-560:

The Tent’s overall length is 54 feet, width 18 feet, and height 12 feet. This adapted version consisted of one end section No. 1, one end section No. 2, one liner end section No. 1, one liner end section No. 2, one liner middle section, one screening end section No. 1, one screening end section No. 2, one screening middle section, and two vestibules.

Sectional Hospital Tent elements:

4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 12-Feet, 3-Inches, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-266
4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 8-Feet, 3-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-249
22 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 6-Feet, 2-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-242-75
46 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
76 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-49
2 X Sash, Ventilator, Tent, Sectional, End Sections, Numbers-1-and-2, Fire-and-Mildew-Resistant – Stock No. 24-S-562
3 X Sash, Ventilator, Tent, Sectional, Middle Sections, Fire-and-Mildew-Resistant – Stock No. 24-S-564
2 X Screening, Tent, Sectional, End Sections, Numbers-1-and-2, Left, Mildew-Resistant-Treated – Stock No. 24-S-830
2 X Screening, Tent, Sectional, End Sections, Numbers-1-and-2, Right, Mildew-Resistant-Treated – Stock No. 24-S-835
6 X Screening, Tent, Sectional, Middle Section, Mildew-Resistant-Treated – Stock No. 24-S-840
2 X Retainer, Shield, Tent, Sectional, End Sections, Numbers-1-and-2, Fire-and-Mildew Resistant – Stock No. 24-R-10-270
3 X Retainer, Shield, Tent, Sectional, Middle Section, Fire-and-Mildew-Resistant – Stock No. 24-R-10-370
1 X Tent, Fire-and-Mildew-Resistant, Sectional, End Section, Number 1 – Stock No. 24-T-323-520
1 X Tent, Fire-and-Mildew-Resistant, Sectional, End Section, Number 2 – Stock No. 24-T-323-525
3 X Tent, Fire-and-Mildew-Resistant, Sectional, Middle Section – Stock No. 24-T-323-535
2 X Vestibule, Tent, Sectional, Fire-and-Mildew-Resistant – Stock No. 24-V-8525
16 X Window, Tent, Sectional – Stock No. 24-W-9000
2 X Liner, Tent, Sectional, End Section, Mildew-Resistant-Treated – Stock No. 24-L-800
3 X Liner, Tent, Sectional, Middle Section, Mildew-Resistant-Treated – Stock No. 24-L-815
46 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070
6 X Lines, Tent, 30-Feet, Unfinished-Two-Ends, 1/8-Inch Diameter (Ventilator Draw Line) – Stock No. 24-L-585-200
8 X Lines, Tent, 19-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-581-30
8 X Lines, Tent, 14-Feet, Unfinished-Two-Ends, 1/8-Inch Diameter (Liner Hoisting Line) – Stock No. 24-L-564-25
4 X Lines, Tent, 13-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Ventilator Flap Line) – Stock No. 24-L-562-50
38 X Lines, Tent, 11-Feet, 6-Inches, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-550-25
4 X Lines, Tent, 10-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Jumper Line) – Stock No. 24-L-543-45
22 X Lines, Tent, 6-Feet, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Jumper Line) – Stock No. 24-L-499
4 X Lines, Tent, 6-Feet, Unfinished-Two-Ends, 1/8-Inch Diameter (Liner Hoisting Line) – Stock No. 24-L-500-900
8 X Lines, Tent, 4-Feet, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Tie Line) – Stock No. 24-L-482-75
26 X Lines, Tent, 4-Feet, Unfinished-Two-Ends, 1/8-Inch Diameter (Liner Hoisting Line) – Stock No. 24-L-486
8 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Flap line) – Stock No. 24-L-479-50
28 X Lines, Tent, 2-Feet, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Wall Tie Line) – Stock No. 24-L-459
134 X Lines, Tent, Foot Stop, ¼-Inch Diameter – Stock No. 24-L-448

Remark: it is to be noted that Khaki and Class B Non-Fire-Resistant Tentage is to be issued in the Continental United States only, until exhausted!

In usage with above-described Tents are essential elements, such as:

STOVE, TENT, M-1941, COMPLETE, QMC Stock No. 65-N-2500:

Stoves with a range of accessories  were available, and could be used in the following Tent assemblies: Hospital Ward (3 x Stoves) – Pyramidal (1 x Stove) – Squad (2 x Stoves) – Small Wall ( 1 x Stove) – Storage (1 x Stove) – Large Wall (1 x Stove) – Assembly (4 x Stoves) –  and Command Post (1 or 2 x Stoves). These types of Stoves can be operated with wood, coal, or with an oil burner.

Tent Stove elements:

1 X Base, Stove, Tent, M-1941 – Stock No. 65-N-1300
1 X Damper, Stove Pipe, 4-Inch – Stock No. 65-N-1500
1 X Grate, Stove, Tent, M-1941, Draw – Stock No. 65-N-1700
1 X Grate, Stove, Tent, M-1941, Round – Stock No. 65-N-1705
1 X Pin, Cotter, Stove, Tent, M-1941 – Stock No. 65-N-1860
6 X Pipes, Stove, Tent, Joints or Sections, Straight, 4-Inch – Stock No. 65-N-2000
1 X Poker, Stove, Tent, M-1941, 24-Inches – Stock No. 65-N-2050
1 X Ring, Adapter, Stove, Tent, M-1941 – Stock No. 65-N-2100
1 X Shaker, Stove, Tent, M-1941 – Stock No. 65-N-2200
1 X Shovel, Stove, Tent, M-1941 – Stock No. 65-N-2400
1 X Top, Stove, Tent, M-1941, with Lid – Stock No. 65-N-2600
1/4 X Arrestors, Spark, Tent, M-1941 – Stock No. 65-N-1200
1 X Hood, Stovepipe, Tent, Ceramic Coated-Metal – Stock No. 65-N-1795
2/8 X Pipes, Stove, Tent, Elbow, 4-Inch – Stock No. 65-N-1900
2/3 X Shields, Tent, Ceramic or Vitrous-Coated, with Elliptical Hole – Stock No. 65-N-2295
1/4 X Shields, Tent, Ceramic or Vitrous-Coated, with Round Hole – Stock No. 65-N-2297

Remark: allowances of certain accessories depend on the type of Tentage used.

Heating: other heating elements were Burner, Oil, Stove, M-1941, Stock No. 65-N-1375, which operated on basis of a 5-gallon gasoline can or a 55-gallon drum, with burner unit, adapter, hoses, and floating valve, used for heating miscellaneous Tentage; and Heater, Tent, Gasoline, Stock No. 65-H-1708, a self-contained, self-powered heating unit with sufficient capacity to heat a TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, MAINTENANCE, SHELTER, Stock. No. 24-T-319-15 …when stoves were available and in use, there was no need to winterize the tents.

Lighting: four (4) 76-watt bulbs were generally provided in each Hospital Ward Tent, and one (1) 76-watt bulb in each Latrine Tent (in winter another solution was to use a Pyramidal, Storage, or Large Wall Tent for latrine use) for lighting. Blackout conditions had to be respected on the Continent.

Resistance: despite all preliminary treatments to make tentage resistant to fire, water, weather, and mildew, the life of Tents can be greatly extended by the use of suitable re-treating compounds. Such products are: Compound, Coloring, Type 1, Color C Green, Stock No. 51-C-1598 or Compound Re-Treating, Water, Weather, and Mildew Resistant for Cotton, Duck, and Webbing, Stock No. 51-C-1608 (inflammable solvents).

Repair: repair of tents can be carried out as follows; by Cement Patching (for minor repairs in the field), by Hand Sewing (in the field), and by Patchingor Reconstruction (in shops with sewing machines and grommet-setting dies).

For Repair of Tents, webbing, blankets and other fabrics, a number of Sewing machines were available: Machine, Sewing, Motor-Operated, Complete, Medium Heavy Duty, 61-W-156, Single Phase, Stock No. 66-M-975, intended for stitching light and medium weight fabrics. Machine, Sewing, Motor-Operated, Complete, Medium Heavy Duty, 111-W-153, Single Phase, Stock No. 66-M-978, used for stitching light tentage and webbing. Machine, Sewing, Motor-Operated, Complete, Medium Heavy Duty, UN-S M-61-300, Single Phase, Stock No. 66-M-979, for trimming and overedging blankets and other similar fabrics. Machine, Sewing, Motor-Operated, Complete, Overedge, Merrow, 3AW, Single Phase, Stock No. 66-M-981, also used for trimming and overedging blankets and other fabrics. Machine, Sewing, Motor-Operated, Complete, Overedge, Singer 81-23, Single Phase, Stock No. 66-M-981-80, for trimming and overedging blankets and miscellaneous fabrics. Machine, Sewing, Motor-Operated, Complete, Overedge, Singer 81-72, Single Phase, Stock No. 66-M-982, used for trimming and overedging fabrics in general.

Ground protection: ground cloths are not generally issued for use with Army Tentage. Because the ground is soon trodden down hard, so that it is easy to sweep and keep clean (if dry, of course), it is more sanitary as a floor than ground cloths which get filthy and hard to keep clean. Any Tent however may have a wooden floor, and floors are used most frequently with Wall and Pyramidal Tents pitched at semi-permanent camps. The floor should be the exact size of the Tent. Hospital Tents were usually provided with concrete floors for more protection and stability. In this particular case, floors were to be constructed with a minimum thickness of concrete (approximately 2 inches –ed)  poured on grade with troweled surface, or paving slabs laid on grade, or other materials approved by the Medical Department and the Corps of Engineers.

Identification: a Command directive “Geneva Red Cross Marker on Tents and Tent Flies” was published by The Surgeon General Office, following its initial recommendation directed to Headquarters, TUSA, dated 13 May 1944, covering the marking of Medical Department Tentage. In Letter Ch Surg 314.81 DJ, dated 11 June 1944, it was observed that the necessity for marking MD tentage was so great that in case Tent Flies could not be obtained, Tentage itself had to be marked! It was furthermore stated that in NATOUSA, the enemy respected the GC Red Cross, and there was every indication that he would continue to do so in the European Theater (this would later lead to more widespread use of GC markings on helmets worn by medical personnel in the field –ed).

The action for the different G-3 and G-4 Staffs following above instructions stated that it was necessary to indicate the percentage of tentage to be marked in all medical installations to the rear of the Division Clearing Stations; and underlined that marking of forward medical installations, including Divisional Clearing Stations, was a Command decision!

The Office of The Chief Surgeon, Headquarters ETOUSA, was to indicate the method of painting the Red Cross, and furnish the necessary dimensional diagram . It was to indicate the procedure for requisitioning Tent Flies painted with the GC symbols. It also underlined that Red Cross Markers (placed on the ground for air recognition) were to be used on the Continent only.

FLY, MEDICAL (MD or QMC Item/Stock No. unknown):

This Fly is a rectangular-shaped A-type element, which serves as an auxiliary canvas roof. It was introduced late 1943, early 1944, to protect and identify a medical installation. The one-piece olive drab Fly which measures 21 feet 4 inches by 18 feet 6 inches is available as a separate item of issue and provides a temporary shelter for treatment of patients (in case no hard structure or better protection can be found). Both sides of the ridge are adorned with the necessary Geneva Convention symbols (a large red cross on a white rectangular field), which are stitched onto the canvas and are not removable. The Fly is very simple to pitch and strike, and is erected as a completely separate unit which can be quickly set up in the field for protection of patients, medical supplies or equipment.

Fly elements (for individual use):

1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 9-Feet – Stock No. 24-P-112
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 9-Feet – Stock No. 24-P-253
8 X Lines, Tent, 8-Feet, w/Eye, ¼-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-515
8 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070
8 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inch – Stock No. 24-P-59

More Tents:

Since Small Wall Tents, Command Posts and Pyramidal Tents are often illustrated in period photographs depicting medical installations, we have included these 3 types of Tents in our Article. Squad Tents have also been added since they sometimes functioned as temporary Hospital Wards. Moreover other general purpose tentage was often used to quarter individual personnel, store medical supplies or equipment, and serve as office space, they have therefore also been included in this Article.

TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, WALL, SMALL, OLIVE-DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-T-323:

Introduced in 1941. Used for shelter of TWO Officers, when in the field and not in combat. When necessary, this Tent may also be used as a small storage tent  The Tent is 8 feet 10 inches wide, 9 feet 2 inches long, and 8 feet 6 inches high. The floor covers approximately 80 square feet. The Small Wall Tent is an A-type, square-ended tent, rectangular in shape. All elements, such as top, side walls and reinforcements are made of 12.29 ounce duck while the sod cloth is made of 9.85 ounce duck. The ridge height is 8 feet 6 inches, while the wall height is 3 feet 9 inches, giving a pitch of 4 feet 9 inches. Each end section has an overlapping slit forming a door, while stovepipe openings are provided at either end of the tent. Ventilation is done by rolling up the side walls, and opening slits. When not in use, stovepipe openings may be used as ventilators. Normal use of the Small Wall Tent is for ONE General Officer, ONE Field Officer, ONE Captain, TWO Lieutenants or TWO Warrant Officers.

Small Wall Tent elements:

18 X Lines, Tent, 2-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Fastener) – Stock No. 24-L-470
2 X Lines, Tent, 2-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Wall Line) – Stock No. 24-L-470
10 X Lines, Tent, 8-Feet, w/Eye, ¼-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-515
18 X Lines, Tent, Foot Stop, ¼-Inch Diameter (Foot Stop) – Stock No. 24-L-448
10 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
18 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-49
4 X Lines, Tent, 4-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Lacing Line) – Stock No. 24-L-490
10 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 9-Feet – Stock No. 24-P-253
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 9-Feet, Wall, Small – Stock No. 24-P-114
2 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Flap Line) – Stock No. 24-L-479-50

FLY, TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, WALL, SMALL, OLIVE-DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-F-150:

Element introduced in 1941. Tents, FR, Wall, Small, are normally provided with a Fly which is an auxiliary canvas roof used with a tent to shed rain and to make the tent cooler, while providing space between fly and ridge for proper air circulation.  The Fly may also be erected as a completely separate unit for use as a protection for supplies, equipment, or for cooking purposes – this item was no longer in use after August 1944! In some instances, the Small Wall Fly was used instead of the Medical Fly (when such version was not available; the canvas was then adorned with the GC symbol on both sides of the A-type element – red cross in a white circle).

Fly elements (when used individually):

12 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 9-Feet, Wall, Small – Stock No. 24-P-114
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 9-Feet – Stock No. 24-P-253
10 X Lines, Tent, 8-Feet, w/Eye, ¼-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-515
10 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070

TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, PYRAMIDAL, M-1934, OLIVE DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-T-320:

Introduced in 1934 for quartering of personnel. The maximum capacity of the Pyramidal Tent is EIGHT men (current Infantry Squad strength, at earlier period) when the tent stove is not used. For reasons of greater comfort and sanitation, use of this Tent is limited to SIX men when the supply of tentage permits! When the tent stove is used, maximum capacity is only SIX men. Because of its distinctive shape, the Pyramidal Tent is easily observed from the air; for this reason more than usual care should be taken to camouflage it properly. It is a limited standard item which was to be replaced by the M-1942 Squad tent … The tent is 16 feet wide, 16 feet long and 11 feet high. Floor space is 256 square feet. Tent top, side walls and all reinforcements are made of identical olive-drab duck. Peak height is 12 feet 3 inches, while wall height is 4 feet 2 inches, giving a pitch of 8 feet 1 inch. There is 1 door, 28 inches wide, and 8 feet high. Ventilation is via the center pole which has an adjustable hood. One M-1941 stove tent is used for heating, the stovepipe is put through the central tent opening. Subject Tent was eventually replaced by the M-1942 Squad Tent.

Pyramidal Tent elements:

1 X Hood, Tent, Olive-Drab, Pyramidal, M-1934 – Stock No. 24-H-66
6 X Lines, Tent, 13-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Hood Line) – Stock No. 24-L-562-50
4 X Lines, Tent, 6-Feet, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Lacing Line) – Stock No. 24-L-500
4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 4-Feet, 9-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-235
24 X Lines, Tent, 10-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-540
28 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
28 X Lines, Tent, Foot Stop, ¼-Inch Diameter (Foot Stop) – Stock No. 24-L-448
6 X Lines, Tent, 2-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Fastener) – Stock No. 24-L-470
10 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Fastener) – Stock No. 24-L-480
2 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼”-Inch Diameter (Door Flap Line) – Stock No. 24-L-479-50
4 X Lines, Tent, 14-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Corner Line) – Stock No. 24-L-565
1 X Pole, Tent, Upright, 12-Feet, 3-Inches, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-266
28 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-49
1 X Chain and Plate, Tent, Pyramidal, M-1934, 16 ½-Inches X 17-Inches – Stock No. 24-C-573
4 X Hooks, Tent End, Pyramidal, M-1934, 5/16-Inch – Stock No. 24-H-167
4 X Hooks, Tent, S, Pyramidal, M-1934, 5/16-Inch – Stock No. 24-H-174
28 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070 

TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, COMMAND POST, M-1942, OLIVE DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-T-318-33:

Introduced in 1942, this Tent was used in Theaters of Operations to provide Office shelter for Staff Sections of the several Command echelons. The Command Post tent is constructed in such a way that it may be completely blacked out, it may thus be safely used in a combat area without fear of observation. When necessary, this Tent may be used for quartering of TWO Officers. The CP Tent will eventually take the place of the Small Wall Tent.  It is 7 feet wide, 11 feet 10 ½ inches long, and 7 feet high. Floor space is 84 square feet. It has an entry 26 inches wide; top and side walls are made of 12.29 ounce duck, while the sod cloth is made of 9.85 ounce duck. There is an extension cloth at the rear end wall which makes it possible to COMBINE 2 Command Post Tents when a larger Office space isdesired. The Command Post Tent has a flat top with just sufficient pitch to shed water. 2 overlapping doors are provided at each end and 4 18-inch square windows made of flexible glass material, have covering flaps (ties & snap fasteners) which can be used for blackout purposes. Furthermore, 2 circular sleeves (with zip opening) are foreseen in each side wall for dropping messages into the tent. 5 Ventilation vents are provided and stoves will be issued (if necessary) although there is no provision for stovepipe openings.

Command Post Tent elements:

8 X Sashes, Window, Tent, Command Post, M-1942 – Stock No. 24-S-575
6 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 6-Feet, 2-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-242-75
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 5-Feet, 8-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-241
8 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
23 X Lines, Tent, Foot Stop, ¼-Inch Diameter (Foot Stop) – Stock No. 24-L-448
8 X Lines, Tent, 14-Inch, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-565
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 7-Feet, 2-Inches, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-246
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 11-Feet, 10 ½-Inches, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-135
23 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-49
8 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock 24-S-1070
3 X Stays, Cover, Ventilators, Tent, Command Post, Style I – Stock No. 24-S-1263-75
4 X Lines, Tent, 7-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Lacing Line) – Stock No. 24-L-513

TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, SQUAD, M-1942, OLIVE DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-T-320-34:

Introduced in 1942, as a replacement for the Tent, FR, Pyramidal, M-1934, Olive Drab and used for the previous Infantry Squad numbering 8 men. Built to shelter the new Squad, now numbering TWELVE men! This Tent is 16 feet wide, 32 feet 7 ½ inches long, and 12 feet high. Heat can be provided by installation of 2 tent stoves with the necessary accessories. The Tent was provided with an appropriate Fly for enhanced protection against wind and other elements.

Squad Tent elements:

4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 6-Feet, 2-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-242-75
8 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 4-Feet, 9-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-235
2 X Lines, Guy, Tent, 50-Feet, Sewed-Two-Ends, Cut-Splice-in-Center, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Guy Line) – Stock No. 24-L-610
26 X Lines, Eave, Tent, 10-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter – Stock No. 24-L-540
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 17-Feet, Jointed with 30-Inch Metal Sleeve – Stock No. 24-P-157
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 12-Feet, 3-Inches, Jointed with 30-Inch Metal Sleeve – Stock No. 24-P-66
4 X Lines, Ventilator Flap, Tent, 13-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Ventilator Flap Line) – Stock No. 24-L-562-50
42 X Lines, Foot Stop, Tent, ¼-Inch Diameter (Foot Stop) – Stock No. 24-L-448
4 X Lines, Door Flap, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Flap Line) – Stock No. 24-L-479-50
12 X Lines, Corner, Tent, 14-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter – Stock No. 24-L-565
42 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
42 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-49
38 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070
4 X Lines, Lacing, Tent, 6-Feet, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Lacing Line) – Stock No. 24-L-500
20 X Lines, Door Fastener, Tent, 2-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Fastener) – Stock No. 24-L-470

FLY, FIRE-RESISTANT, TENT, SQUAD, M-1942, OLIVE DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-F-125:

Also introduced the same year. It was used as an auxiliary roof for enhanced protection of the tent. This part provides for additional air circulation between ridge and fly. The Fly could be used as an intrinsic part of the Squad Tent, or individually as a Shelter. It used to be part of the Squad Tent, but was no longer issued after August 1944!

Fly elements (when used individually):

8 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 5-Feet, 5-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-240
4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 7-Feet – Stock No. 24-P-245
12 X Lines, Tent, 10-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Corner Line) – Stock No. 24-L-565
2 X Lines, Tent, 13-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Ventilator Flap Line) – Stock No. 24-L-562-50
26 X Lines, Tent, 10-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock 24-L-540
38 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
38 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070

Remark: a revised type of Tent, Fire-Resistant, Squad, M-1942, Olive Drab, 6-Foot, 2-Inch Door, Stock No. 24-T-323-600 was already introduced in 1942. It shelters SIXTEEN men when stoves are not installed, and TWELVE men with stoves installed. It can be used as a small Field Hospital, a Field Bakery, a Storage Tent, or for any other general purpose. After August 1944, subject Tent replaced Pyramidal and Storage Tents, which had become limited standard. Basic modifications vs. the previous model are the two vertical doors, new ventilators, separate stovepipe outlets, and other minor features. The Tent is 26 feet wide, 32 feet and 9 inches long, and 12 feet high. The floor space is 512 square feet and the ridge height 12 feet, wall height is 4 feet and 6 inches, giving a pitch of 7 feet 6 inches. Canvas flaps protect the ventilation holes, and 2 stovepipe openings are provided for either installation of stoves (Stock No. 65-N-2500) or for ventilation. There was no longer a Fly for this Tent model.

TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, WALL, LARGE, OLIVE-DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-T-322:

Also introduced in 1941. This is the LARGE version of the previous described Small Wall Tent. This Tent will normally be used either as an Officer’s Mess or as an Office in Battalion and higher Headquarters when so authorized. It may however, also be used for storage of supplies or quartering of personnel. In the latter case, the Large Wall Tent has a capacity for EIGHT men without a stove, or SIX men with a stove installed. The normal capacity, when used for mess purposes, is of 20 to 22 individuals, depending on whether tables of 8 ½ or 10 feet long are used. When equipped with folding camp tables for office purposes, the tent has a capacity of approximately 12 men. This Tent is 14 feet 6 inches wide, 15 feet 2 ¼ inches long, and 11 feet high, with a floor space of 203 square feet. It is an A-type, square-end tent, of rectangular shape. The same type of duck material is used as for the small wall tent.

Large Wall Tent elements:

4 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 4-Feet, 9-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-235
14 X Lines, Tent, 9-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-535
18 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
2 X Lines, Tent, 2-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Wall Line) – Stock No. 24-L-470
22 X Lines, Tent, 2-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Fastener) – Stock No. 24-L-470
26 X Lines, Tent, Foot Stop, ¼-Inch Diameter (Foot Stop) – Stock No. 24-L-448
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 12-Feet, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-266
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 14-Feet, 2-Inches, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-150
26 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches– Stock No. 24-P-49
16 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070
2 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Extension Cloth Line) – Stock No. 24-L-479-50
2 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inch, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Flap Line) – Stock No. 24-L-479-50
4 X Lines, Tent, 6-Feet, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Lacing Line) – Stock No. 24-L-500
2 X Lines, Tent, 45-Feet, Sewed-Two-Ends, Cut-Splice-In-Center, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Guy Line) – Stock No. 24-L-590

FLY, FIRE-RESISTANT, TENT, WALL, LARGE, OLIVE-DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-F-140:

Also introduced in 1941. The Fly, measuring 21 feet 6 inches by 14 feet 5 inches is available as a separate item of issue, when authorized. It is very simple to pitch and strike, and serves adequately as a Field Kitchen! It is then often erected against the rear of a Kitchen Truck; the cooking is then done in the truck while the food is served under the Fly.

Fly elements (when used individually):

14 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 14-Feet, 2-Inches, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-150
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 12-Feet, 3-Inches, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-266
14 X Lines, Tent, 10-Feet, w/Eye, ¼-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-539
14 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070

TENT, FIRE-RESISTANT, STORAGE, OLIVE-DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-T-321:

Introduced in 1941. Its normal purpose is for storage of supplies in the field, when other shelter is not provided. It may however also be used for quartering of personnel, and then has a capacity of TEN individuals (since this tent is limited standard item of issue, it will eventually be replaced by the Squad Tent). The Tent, FR, Storage is 17 feet 10 inches wide, 20 feet 5 inches long and 13 feet high. Its floor space is about 358 square feet. It is again an A-type, square-end tent, rectangular in shape. The Tent is made of the same duck material (as tents previously described) and is fabricated in one piece. Ridge height is 13 feet, wall height is 5 feet 2 inches, with a pitch of 7 feet 10 inches. One tent stove is used to heat the Storage Tent.

Storage Tent elements:

6 X Lines, Tent, 6-Feet, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Lacing Line) – Stock No. 24-L-500
8 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 5-Feet, 5-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-240
36 X Lines, Tent, Foot Stop, ¼-Inch Diameter (Foot Stop) – Stock No. 24-L-448
1 X Pole, Tent, Upright, 13-Feet, w/3-Inch-Spindle – Stock No. 24-P-272-75
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 13-Feet, w/6-Inch-Spindle – Stock No. 24-P-273
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 20-Feet, 3 ½-Inches, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-220
18 X Lines, Tent, 2-Feet, 6-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Fastener) – Stock No. 24-L-470
20 X Lines, Tent, 10-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-540
3 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 13-Feet, Complete, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-273
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 20-Feet, 3 ½-Inches, Jointed – Stock No. 24-P-220
2 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Flap Line) – Stock No. 24-L-479-50
2 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-One-End, ¼-Inch Diameter (Extension Cloth Line) – Stock No. 24-L-479-50
2 X Lines, Tent, 48-Feet, Sewed-Two-Ends, Cut-Splice-in-Center, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Guy Line) – Stock No. 24-L-605
36 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-49
24 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches – Stock No. 24-P-59
22 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070

FLY, FIRE-RESISTANT, TENT, STORAGE, OLIVE-DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-F-130:

Also introduced the same year. The Fly may be issued as a separate item, but will mainly serve as an auxiliary roof for enhanced protection against weather elements, and also to keep supplies in the storage tent cooler.

Fly elements (when used individually):

20 X Pins, Tent, 24-Inches– Stock No. 24-P-59
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 20-Feet, 3 ½-Inches, Complete, Jointed (2 Sections) – Stock No. 24-P-220
2 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 13-Feet, with 6-Inch Spindle – Stock No. 24-P-273
1 X Pole, Tent, Upright, 13-Feet, with 3-Inch Spindle – Stock No. 24-P-272-75
20 X Lines, Tent, 11-Feet, 6-Inches, w/Eye, ¼-Inch Diameter (Eave Line) – Stock No. 24-L-550-25
20 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070

Remark: there are some discrepancies in quantities and stock numbers between the Quartermaster Supply Catalog QM 3-4, 1945 and FM 20-15 Tents & Tent Pitching, 24 Feb 1945 …

TENT, SHELTER, QMC Stock No. 74-T-100 (Old Type):

First Pattern introduced in 1940. Issue per individual is one tent, shelter half, five pins and one pole, to be usually carried as part of the individual Field Pack – thus, TWO individuals carry and occupy ONE complete tent, shelter. The back of the tent is shaped like an inverted V, while the front is open. The tent, shelter is made of 33-inch wide, 7.9-ounce khaki cotton duck material which has been treated with aluminum acetate, wax, and soap to make it water repellent. When complete, it comes in TWO sections which button together to make it into ONE two-man tent (one half is right side out, while the other is inside out, in order to make buttons & buttonholes match for fastening). Ridge height is 43 inches. The wooden pins (rounded) are 9 inch in length. The above design makes extensions possible, by using 4 shelter halves, in order to provide a tent for 4 men …

Elements of ONE Shelter Half:

5 X Pins, Tent, Shelter, Wood – Stock No. 74-P-125
4 X Lines, Foot Stop, Tent, Shelter Half – Stock No. 74-L-67
1 X Line, Guy, Tent, Shelter Half – Stock No. 74-L-70
1 X Pole, Tent, Shelter – Stock No. 74-P-225

TENT, SHELTER, QMC Stock No. 74-T-102 (New Type):

Second Pattern introduced in 1943. Issue per individual is one tent, shelter half, five pins and three poles (single section), to be usually carried as part of the individual Field Pack. The Tent is foreseen to provide shelter for TWO individuals. Both back and front have inverted V sections for added protection and possible ventilation which makes it possible to close the tent completely. The new version offering enhanced protection in cold climates and against wind and rain replaced the previous type which became Limited Standard. The Khaki-colored version was eventually replaced by an Olive-Drab type.

Elements of ONE Shelter Half:

5 X Pins, Tent, Shelter, Wood – Stock No. 74-P-125
4 X Lines, Foot Stop, Tent, Shelter Half – Stock No. 74-L-69
1 X Line, Guy, Tent, Shelter Half – Stock No. 74-L-70
3 X Poles, Tent, Shelter, Single Section – Stock No. 74-P-230

Remark: nothing is issued for heating the shelter half tent, because it is intended for sleeping purposes only! However, some expedient measures can be used, such as building a brush fire over the area, before erecting the tent, the ground will remain warm for several hours and the earth will remain dry – collect and heat stones in a hot fire for 2 or 3 hours, put them in a bucket or metal container, or bury them slightly below the earth surface, they will continue to give off heat – use a one-burner cooking stove to take the chill off the inside of the shelter – burn solidified alcohol in cans to give some heat – use gasoline lanterns or candle lanterns to heat and dry off … In addition to it being used as sleeping quarters, the shelter could be used as a Fly to protect a person while cooking. An alternative to the Shelter Half is the Hammock, Jungle, Complete (QMC Stock No. 74-H-60) for use of troops operating in jungle areas where conditions are not desirable for bivouac on the ground.

SCREEN, LATRINE, FIRE-RESISTANT, OLIVE-DRAB, QMC Stock No. 24-S-760:

The Latrine Screen was issued to units in the field for use as an outdoor Latrine. It is 18 feet long, 7 feet high, and 9 feet wide at one end, and 7 feet wide at the other end. The difference serves to form a 2-foot entrance on one side of the screen. The OD screen is made of 9.26-ounce or 9.68-ounce duck. It can be easily pitched by a detail of 6 men, under the supervision of an NCO.

Latrine Screen elements:

2 X Poles, Tent, Ridge, 9-Feet, Hinged – Stock No. 24-P-112
1 X Pole, Tent, Ridge, 7-Feet – Stock No. 24-P-100
7 X Poles, Tent, Upright, 7-Feet – Stock No. 24-P-245
7 X Lines, 14-Feet, w/Eye, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Guy Line) – Stock No. 24-L-565
8 X Pins, Tent, 16-Inches – Stock 24-P-49
8 X Slips, Tent, Wire – Stock No. 24-S-1070
15 X Lines, Tent, 3-Feet, 4-Inches, Sewed-Two-Ends, ¼-Inch Diameter (Door Fastener) – Stock No. 24-L-480
1 X Line, Tent, 8-Feet, Sewed-One-End, 5/16-Inch Diameter (Tie Line) – Stock No. 24-L-514-40

Remark: we are still looking for additional information related to tentage material, such as Tent, Kitchen, Flyproof, Tent Oxygen  …