ELIZABETHTOWN — Once in a while an item comes into a thrift shop, such as the one in Elizabethtown which is supporting four churches, that grabs the attention of volunteers.
Such an item is a Korean Conflict casualty bag.
Although it sometimes does not capture public interest as World War II, and more recently, Vietnam does, the “Korean Conflict” as it is officially known, is often forgotten.
For those who endured it, it was a “War.”
Thus, the 70 year-old relic found in the thrift shop is a reminder of the brutality of warfare during this period; not just due to enemy fire, but conditions related to survival.
BRUTAL COLD
According to an article written by Dwight Jon Zimmerman for Defense Media Network, “The Korean War also provided an opportunity to study and test new equipment and procedures, many of which would go on to become standards of care in both the military and civilian medical communities.
“These included vascular reconstruction, the use of artificial kidneys, new antibiotics, development of lightweight body armor, and research on the effects of extreme cold on the body, which led to development of better cold weather clothing and improved cold weather medical advice and treatment.”
As with all military related clothing and equipment, information is provided that includes nomenclature and proper usage. As it stipulates on the bag, it is, “FOR CASUALTIES ONLY.” In addition, the casualty bag provides cleaning instructions as well as a date and the manufacturer.
Though qualified for extreme negative temperatures, due to its immense size and weight, it is not a sleeping bag that today’s camper would desire to tote on their back or in their pack while navigating mountain trails.
The winter of 1950 started in the middle of November, several weeks ahead of forecasts. The intensely cold and bitter weather made life in general more difficult. Temperatures dropped to -54° F. Frostbite was perhaps the worst malady brought on by the cold weather. However, during the first winter of the Korean War, soldiers also suffered from frozen rations, icy terrain, jammed weapons, and a shortage of cold weather gear.
An example of this according to Wikipedia indicated, “On 14 November 1950, a cold front from Siberia descended over the Chosin Reservoir, and the temperature plunged, according to estimates, to as low as −36 °F. The cold weather created considerable danger of frostbite casualties and was accompanied by frozen ground, icy roads, and weapon malfunctions. Medical supplies froze; morphine infusion equipment had to be defrosted in a medic’s mouth before being injected; blood plasma was frozen and useless on the battlefield.
“In addition, removing clothing to deal with a wound risked gangrene and frostbite. Batteries used for the Jeeps and radios did not function properly in the temperature and quickly ran down. The lubrication in the guns gelled and the springs on the firing pins would not strike hard enough to fire the round, or weapons would jam rendering them useless in battle.”
M*A*S*H
Over a dozen episodes of the iconic tragic-comedy “MASH” were based on the extreme cold, such as “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”, “The Long John Flap”, and “They Call the Wind, Korea.” The repartee included Colonel Henry Blake saying, “I’d give five dollars for someone to go to the bathroom for me.” To which Radar responded, “I’ll go.” In reality, the frigid temperatures were no laughing matter.
Plans are underway for an exhibit honoring veterans from the Adirondacks which may include the casualty bag. It is hoped that the person who donated the bag will contact the museum at (518) 873-6466. echs@adkhistorymuseum.org, or this writer at rondackrambler@gmail.com and provide specific information as to its provenance.
Email Alvin Reiner at: rondackrambler@gmail.com