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FM 9-5
E
WAR DEPARTMENT
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE
IN THE FIELD
July 11, 1942
„ us ti b
REFERENCE USE
ONLY
NOT TO BE TAKEN FROM LIBRARY
FM 9-5
c e
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Changes! WAR DEPARTMENT,
So. G ] Washington 25, D. C., 29 July 1844.
FM »-5, 11 July 1SM2. is changed us follows:
CHAPTER 7 ■
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE COMBAT ZONE
• * * * •
Section IV (Added)
AMPHIBIOUS OPERATION'S
4 84.1. General. — a. An amphilflous operation ia an expedition
dispatched by sea to make a landing assault on a hostile shore.
"The composition of the task force involved is determined by Joint
planning and training of Army and Navy personnel. Army land-
ing forces are organized to facilitate embarkation and debarka-
tion, to attain a powerful invasion force, and to provide logistic
support of the operation. Normally the initial landing team will
consist of one battalion of combatant troops. The logistic func-
tions for this unit will be accomplished by a "shore party" to
which ordnance personnel may be added when considered feasible.
The shore group is the task organization of the landing force for
the control of army administrative functions on the beach. This
group includes the shore parties augmented by necessary service
personnel. Ordnance personnel would normally be included. A
large portion of the equipment used by thy combat troops to estab-
lish, consolidate, and extend any beachhead consists of ordnance
materiel. Ordnance units which are included in the task force
^organization must be especially organized and equipped to per-
form the ordnance service to the force. It is therefore very
necessary that a definite and specific ordnance plan be included
in the general over-all plan for the proposal operations, with em-
phasis on those necessary items normally included in class IV
supply.
b. .Joint oversea operations are covered in FM 60-5 (when pub-
lished) (revision of 31-5).
AGO 611 D 505304°— 44
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
■ 84.2. Planning. — a. It ordnance troops are included in the
initial phases of the landing operation, the plan for these troops
will be bused upon the tactical plan of the units they support. Iu
order to prepare the ordnance annex, the ordnance officer must ba
advised of the complete plans of the combat teams for seizing th?
beachhead line, Including the number and type of weapons and
vehicles with which the task force is equipped.
b. Selection of tentative sites for initial ammunition storage
areas is the responsibility of the shorn party couiinalider, who
may be assisted by an ordnance officer.
c. Plans for the debarkation will include the order and priority
in which ordnance personnel and equipment are to be debarked.
d. The ordnance plan should include in detail the supply, main-
tenance, evacuation, and replacement of ordnance materiel. The
failure of an adequate supply and replacement system may result
in the failure of the operation, regardless of the initial tactical
success. The following will be Included in detail :
(1) The selection of appropriate ordnance units to-be included
in the landing force, and their strength and composition together
with details for attachment to combat units, when advisable.
(2) Supplies to be taken in the initial ship-to-shore movements,
together with detailed plan for packing and stowage. This, in
turn, will depend upon —
■ (a) Mission, strength, and composition of the task force.
(6) Supplies required en route, and the amount of beach re-
serves and landing force reserves to be established and main-
tained.
(3) The level of supplies to be maintained.
(4) The amount and kind of materiel to be serviced, the ex-
tent of maintenance to be rendered, and the anticipated battle
losses and damage to equipment.
(5) - The schedule of supplies necessary to increase the basic
stock to the required lauding force reserve level.
e. The plan should Include the numbers of major items to 6e
taken for limited replacement of small arms damaged or lost
in landing operations, and the echelon or echelons in which these
replacement items will be carried.
f. So far as practicable, all elements of the task force should
be equipiK.'d with the same types of wantons and vehicles, in
order to simplify the maintenance and supply problems. All
2
AGO 611D
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
ordnance materiel of the task force should be placed In com-
pletely serviceable condition, Including waterproofing, prior to
embarkation, and stowage items carefully checked., Provision
should be made for limited inspection and maintenance en route,
■when warranted by conditions.
ff. The ordnance plan will show in detail the necessary changes
to organizational equipment necessary to support the assigned
mission.
ft. Ordnance troops should establish maintenance and resupply
functions immediately after they disembark.
i. The plan should include provisions for a de- waterproofing
area, in order to keep litter and debris from beaches and trans-
portation routes.
■ 84.3. iNinhi ordnance? TKooPBi — a. When ordinance troops
are attached to the shore party, they will function under the
shore parly commander. As soon as possible, all advance ord-
nance personnel will revert to the control of the task force
ordnance officer or the army ordnance officer as specified by the
task force commander.
6. The initial ordnance troops should normally consist of am-
munition, bomb disposal, general supply, and maintenance
personnel.
(1.) Ammunition for a battalion landing team will normally
be moved from the beach to selected areas by the shore party.
During subsequent organization of regimental or divisional
supply points, ordnance personnel will be charged with this
responsibility. The dispersion of ammunition supply points
should be given due consideration so as to provide accessibility
to troop units, lateral suppiy and protection from enemy action.
(2) The bomb disposal detail should be made up of one
officer and a sufficient number of enlisted men with equipment
to handle any anticipated requirement. When practicable,
each detail should be a bomb disposal squad, separate. Bomb
disposal personnel will also be able to give advice and assistance
on handling of captured enemy ammunition and inspection of
suspected booby traps. Ordnance personnel who are not
trained In bomb disposal technique should never attempt to
handle unexploded enemy bombs.
(3) In the initial landing, ordnance general supplies will
usually be limited to replacement items, cleaning and preserving
AGO 611D
3
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
materials, and 'fast-moving spare parts which will be required
during the first few days of operations. Corrosion, due to salt
water, will be the most important factor which will cause
equipment to become unserviceable. If available, knocked -down
bins may be landed in order to set up the depot before
arrive.
(4) Maintenance personnel and equipment will be limited to
small arms, artillery, and vehicle emergency repair. Usually
It wilt be advisable to consolidate the maintenance and Supply
operations during the initial stages.
(5) During the early stages, transportation will be non-
existent, or very limited. Ordnance contact parties will be
prepared to operate on foot, and the service which they can ren-
der will be limited to the tools and parts which can be carried on
their persons.
(6) As soon as the initial ordnance services have been es-
tablished, all units should be notified as to their locations.
Signs indicating locations of ordnance installations should be
made up prior to embarkation in order to be ready for imme-
diate use when needed.
■ 84.4. Operations on shore— a. Usually troops in the Initial
landing will carry sufficient ammunition to meet their needs,
until reserve stocks can be brought in by succeeding waves.
Artillery troops usually land with their basic load of ammuni-
tion plus a reserve, as authorized hy the task force commander.
6. Since the combat troops will be occupied in establishing
the beachhead and placing guns in position, It is the duty of the
Shore party personnel to unload the ammunition onto the beach.
It is desirable that this be accomplished undei/ordnance super-
vision to assure that ammunition is segregated and stacked by
type and caliber on suitable high ground with sufficient dunnage
and cover to keep ammunition dry, and that powder charges,
fuzes, primers, etc., are available and issued in appropriate
quantities and that all safety precautions are Observed.
e. The troops in the initial wave will usually carry a very
limited amount of supplies so that their mobility will not be
impaired. Boats of later waves will bring In additional sup-
plies. These additional supplies are dumped on the beach and
will require rehandling under difficult conditions. Carrying
4
AGO 611D
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
parties must be used to advance supplies inland to selected
sites.
d. The initial ammunition and general supply points are es-
tablished near the beach and supplies arriving by boat are
moved directly to these points. These locations will have been
tentatively selected prior to landing (see par. 84.26) from a
study of available maps or aerial photographs. Final deter-
mination Is made only after careful reconnaissance by the shore
party commander, assisted by any advance ordnance ammuni-
tion personnel. Factors considered during the selection of
these sites are :
(1) Convenience to boat landings.
(2) Cover from enemy observation and Are.
(3) Terrain conditions.
(4) Traffic routes inland, including beach exits.
(5) Facilities for handling supplies and unit trains.
(6) Possibilities of expansion.
(7) Access to probable routes of forward displacement.
(8) Tidal movements.
e. Every means should be taken to expedite the movement of
Supplies from the beach to the selected sites. The beach should
be cleared as soon as possible to avoid congestion, possible loss
of supplies due to enemy action, and to expedite segregation.
Suggested aids are :
(1) Supplies may be loaded on pallets or skids prior to em-
barkation. These pallets or skids are then moved intact from
the ship to the shore, and tractors or bulldozers may be used
to pull them along fairly smooth beaches and trails.
(2) Vehicles may be loaded with supplies and landed com-
pletely loaded if sufficient roads are available. The loaded
vehicles can then be driven directly to the ordnance area.
(3) When available, amphibian vehicles may be used to haul
supplies direct from the ship across the beach to inland sites.
f. As soon as practicable, complete ordnance maintenance
and supply units should be landed. Bivouac areas and depot
and maintenance sites should be selected and prepared by the
personnel with the initial force, so that these units can move
directly to these areas upon arrival.
■ 84.5, Resupply. — Hesupply wiU be effected by two methods:
water and air transport.
AGO 61 ID
5
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
a. The majority of tbe resupply will be by water transport.
In the event that no port facilities are available, the bulk of the
supplies will be unloaded from the ship to a lighter, and from the
lighter onto tbe beacb. The supplies must tben be moved from the
beach to the supply points whicb have been established. Super-
vision by ordnance personnel must be provided at the point of
debarkation, and should be maintained all the way to the supply
point. The additional labor required to move all of these sup-
plies normally will be furnished by detail from the army
quartermaster service organizations, as provided in FM 100-10.
b. In the initial planning for the operation, the task force com-
mander may prescribe a procedure for the supply of the ground
units by air. Ordinarily, the greatest-demand on the part of com-^
bat troops for resupply by air will be for ammunition and emer-
gency spare parts. During the Initial stages, the delivery of
supply by air necessarily may be by parachute.' Type loads for
parachute delivery units are contained in FM 31-40. If air fields
are captured or built, air supply can be made by transport planes
or gliders. In the event that an air field is established, it is
advisable to have a small ordnance detachment on duty at the
air field in order that ordnance supplies are properly segregated,
safely bandied, and directed to the proper point.
■ 84.6. Expansion. — a. Base depots are established as soon as
the advance Justifies, and all supplies remaining at supply points
near the beach are absorbed by these depots. Reserves in base
depots are maintained at a level prescribed in the administrative
plan of the task force.
6. First priority on eoiiStructioir-'Servlces and personnel are
for the building of docks, air fields, and main roads. It may
therefore be necessary in the initial stages for the ordnance
troops themselves to start the construction work necessary in
building a base depot.
c. The planning for the establishment of ordnance base depots
should take into account the fact that many items in excess of
T/O & E will be required, and provision must be made for them.
d. As soon as the situations will allow, ammunition which was
landed in the initial waves will be inspected and any unservice-
able items will be disposed of by dumping at sea or by another
approved method.
6
AGO 61 ID
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
e. When the expansion of the base reaches the point where it
becomes an established port, the ordnance problem becomes one
of general ordnance service in the corubat zone.
[A. G. 300.7 <26 Apr 44).]
By obdeb or the Secbetart of Wab :
G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Staff.
Official:
J. A. ULIO,
Major General,
The Adjutant General.
Distribution :
As prescribed in paragraph 9a, FM 21-6; Base Comcis (5) ;
Island Comds (5) ; Def Comds (5) ; Sectors (5) ; Sub-
Sectors (5) ; B (2) ; It (2) ; Bn 1-7, 17, 44 (2), 9 (10) ;
Co. 9 (10).
For explanation of symbols, see FM 21-6.
AGO 61ID
7
u. s. Government pr| htjng Orricn t»**
FM 9-5
*C 5
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Changes 1 WAR DEPARTMENT,
No. 5 J Washington 25, D. C, 18 February 1944.
FM !)-5, 11 July 1942, Is changed as follows :
■ 82. Types and Mission.
*****
6. Functional types. (As added by C 1.)
* * * * *
(4) (Added) Composite.
[A. G. 300.7 (0 Feb 44).] (CB, 18 Feb 44.)
■ 35. Ordnance Base Companies. (As changed by C 1.)
*****
m. (Added) Ammunition renovation company (no T/0). —
(1) General. — The requirements of tactical organizations for
this company are so varied that it is not deemed desirable to
standardize on a fixed composition. These companies are made
tip as required from appropriate cells of T/O & B 9-500 (see
par. 35.3), the number and types of which are dictated by the
requirements of the specific situation. Cell GA, ammunition
renovation platoon, comprises the working element. A typical
composition of a renovation company is this cell, plus three
others of T/O & E 9-500 : company headquarters, cell AB ; mess
team No. 2, cell AE; and ammunition supply team No. 1 cell BD;
or a total of 4 Officers and 101 enlisted men. The mission of such
a company is the renovation and modification of American ammu-
nition and the salvage and reconditioning of enemy ammunition.
(2) Operations. — American ammunition received in an over-
sea theater will not normally be inspected at the point of receipt
except for the repair of ammunition boxes. When ammunition
la issued to using troops and any concealed damages are dis-
covered, such damaged ammunition will be segregated sit the bat-
teries or other combat unit positions and returned to the ammuni-
tion supply points where it will be repaired if within the capa-
bilities of the small renovation kit assigned to ammunition com-
panies (see SNL N-17). Items more seriously damaged will be
evacuated to an ammunition depot where It will be collected
mid held until a sufficient quantity is assembled to make it worth
while to send a renovation company to that point. It will be
•This change is priDted as a pamphlet to conserve paper und prtntlnf
ma to expedite delivery to the field.
574844° — 44
FM 9-5
C5
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
impractical to provide one such company for each ammunition
depot, but the equipment of the renovation company lias been
made highly mobile so that it can be taken from location to lo-
cation as the requirements for the work accumulates.
[A. G. 300.7 (9 Feb 44),] (C 5. 18 Feb 44.)
■ 35.3 Cojiposhe Organizations (Added). — a. General. — Com-
posite ordnance organizations are authorized by T/O & E 0-600.
This Table of Organization and Equipment consists of a number
of cells covering the entire field of ordnance service. These cells
may be grouped together in any suitable combination. The
specific composition will be established by the War Department
order activating the particular organization. Composite or-
ganizations will find their principal use in furnishing the ord-
nance service for task forces and as special ordnance organiza-
tions, the requirements for which may be so varied as not to
warrant the standardization of any one composition. An ex-
ample of this latter is the ammunition renovation company
described in paragraph 35m. In the case of task forces, as the
theater of operations expands and additional troops are moved
into the area, established types of ordnance organizations will be
moved in and gradually take over ordnance service, or the com-
posite organization may be increased in strength by the addition
of cells to enable It to carry the increased load. In this latter
situation, the War Department will effect the augmentation by
the activation and assignment of the necessary cells.
6. Composition.— T/O & B 9-500 consists of a number of vari-
ous sized cells under each of the following categories; adminis-
tration, depot, maintenance, distribution, recovery, bomb disposal,
and ammunition renovation, The type and size of the opera-
tional teams grouped together depend on the expected mission of
the organization. Then, depending on the number of individuals
assigned, the suitable headquarters, mess, service, and repair
teams are assigned. The capabilities of each of the cells are
indicated in the "Ren.arks" section of the published T/O & E.
[A, G.;i00.7 (9Feb 44).] (C 5, 18 Feb 44.)
By orpeh of the Secretary of War :
Official :
J. A. ULIO,
G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Staff.
Major General,
The Adjutant General.
9
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
a. Methods of destruction used should be the simplest which
will accomplish the desired purpose. As an example, explosives
should not be used in a case where the use of a heavy hammer
will effect the desired destruction.
b. Selection of a feasible method requires imagination and
initiative. If only a few rifles in the small-arms section are to
be destroyed, individual methods of destruction can be applied
in a matter of minutes. On the other hand, if a large number of
rifles in original containers are in stock, such methods are
obviously impractical. Mass destruction by fire or explosives
is required in such a case,
c. If normal and reasonable safety precautions are observed,
demolition of large quantities of materiel may require consider-
able space and time. Destruction by gunfire may be desirable
if time is limited.
d. Care should be taken to destroy repair parts as well as
major items. It will do little good to destroy a ring gear if the
enemy finds a new one in a spare parts truck.
■ 31.3 Destruction Br Welding and Cutting. — Destruc-
tion by means of acetylene cutting torches and electric welding
may be applicable where only a few large items are affected.
Cutting operations may be limited by the amount of oxygen
and acetylene available. Destruction by these means should
be under the supervision of the shop foreman or section chief
since a high degree of technical knowledge is necessary to discern
between effective and ineffective operations.
■ 31,4 Ordnance Depot. — The destruction of materiel in an
ordnance depot is associated with inherent difficulties. This is
due in part to the packing of much materiel in original con-
tainers and to the lack of the required facilities. Destruction
should be accomplished by explosives and fire. The materials
required for destruction of the depot should be estimated and
kept on hand at all times.
[A. G. 300.7 (21 Jul 44), J (04, 1« Feb 44.)
S
FM 9-6
*C 4
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Changes'! WAR DEPARTMENT,
No. 4 J Washington 25, D. C, 19 February 1944.
FM 9-5, 11 July 1942, is changed as follows:
CHAPTER 4.1 (Added)
DESTRUCTION OF ORDNANCE MATERIEL
' 31.1 Plan for Destruction. — a. It may sometimes be nec-
essary for ordnance personnel to destroy the materiel in their
possession to prevent it falling into the hands of the enemy.
The decision for this destruction rests with the army or theater
commander, and should not be carried out without his orders
unless communication with him is impossible. However, it is
the responsibility of the unit commander to prepare a plan for
the destruction and thoroughly train his personnel in its execu-
tion in order to insure its success when its application is necessary.
b. Two considerations require that this plan be flexible.
(1) The materiel under consideration is subject to wide varia-
tion as to type and quantity. In depots, this variation wilt be
caused by changes in stock levels; in maintenance shops, by
changes in materiel to be repaired; and In both, the variations
will be affected by the tactical situation.
(2) The second requirement for flexibility is due to the fact
that means for evacuation may become impaired. Trucks may
be knocked out by accident or enemy action, roads may become
jammed with traffic or may be interdicted by hostile fire. Time
required for complete destruction may be lacking.
c The first step in the plan is the determination of what is
to be evacuated and what is to be destroyed. Material to be
evacuated will be limited by available transportation.
d. The second step is the determination of materials required
for complete destruction of that material which is to be destroyed.
This will include demolition materials, oxygen and acetylene,
welding rod, incendiary grenades, gasoline, and other incendiary
materials, depending on the methods of destruction chosen. The
materiel to be destroyed should be listed by types, the method
•This change supersede* Training Circular No. IS, War Department, 1943, and is
printed as a pamphted to conserve paper BDd printing and to expedite delivery to
the Add.
B7S105*— 44
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
and degree of destruction stated, and the materials required for
one article, the number of articles, the total materials required,
the time for destruction of one item, and the time in man-hours
for destruction of the required number of items should all be
given.
e. The third step is the assignment of personnel to the task.
This should be planned so that all destruction is completed at
approximately the same time. It may be necessary to assign
men to Other than their normal work to accomplish this. For
example, instrument men may have to assist in the destruc-
tion of small arms. It may also be necessary to revise the
selection of methods of destruction.
/. After the plan has been carefully balanced, the men available
for the work should be trained in its execution. Every man
should know exactly what he is to do and be trained in simulation
of the job.
g. A plan for complete destruction as outlined above will prob-
ably require more time or more materials than the organization
can reasonably expect to have. It should be revised as to the
extent of destruction of the individual items on the basis of
expected available time. The required materials should then be
obtained and kept on hand at all times.
h. The above plan is based on the evacuation of certain ma-
teriel. An addendum should be prepared for the destruction of
this materiel also, to be used in case its evacuation is impossible.
i. In the event actual destruction becomes necessary, it is very
probable that the prepared plan will require revision on the spot.
If possible, the unit commander should be on hand to render such
decisions as may be necessary. In any event, his principal assist-
ants (shop or depot officer and foremen or chief clerk) should be
on the job to supervise the work.
j. An illustrative plan prepared as outlined above is shown in
appendix IV.
■ 31.2 Methods of Destruction. — The approved method of
destruction of each item of ordnance materiel is published in the
pertinent Field Manual. This method should be used whenever
possible in order to obtain uniform results throughout the Army.
However, the specific method employed is a decision of the
commander and should be based on the considerations given
below.
S
Appendix IV (Added)
PLAN FOR DESTRUCTION
■ 1. Genbhal. — Preparation of a plan for the destruction of
ordnance materiel in the hands of ordnance units as outlined in
paragraphs 18.1 to 18.4 is illustrated below. The plan is based
on the requirement for the destruction of materiel on hand in a
maintenance shop. As it is intended only to illustrate a method
for developing a plan, all numerical quantities are taken at
random.
P
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
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6
ORDNANCE SERVICE IH THE FIELD
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7
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
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8
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
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ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
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10
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
/. Special crews formed.
Crew
Squad
Men
Deinolillon
1
3
1
s
6
10
18
IS
Total
67
' To sntticr UP, load, and otherwise assist In preparation of materiel for evacuation.
■ To move vehicles and artillery to areas convenient for destruction, and otherwise
assist as may be necessary,
g. Men available for destruction.
Total
Super-
visory
Net
15
12
■ 22
12
S3
1
1
2
1
4
14
11
20
11
84
Small-arms section
Total
140
67
83
k. Total man-hours required.
Section
Weld-
ing
Cut-
ting
Demo-
lition
Hand
De-
struc-
tion
13.0
0.7
4.S
.2
.6
.i
0.1
.2
,7
4.8
.3
14.3
11
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
t. Total time required.
Hand destruction. 14.3/83 X 60=10.3 minutes.
Welding 0.7/1X60=42 minutea.
Cutting 4.8/5X60 = 58 minutes.
Demolition 0.3/1 X 60 = 18 minutes.
Evacuation 20-30 minutes (estimated).
Moving 20-30 minutes (estimated).
j. Changes. — It is apparent that less destruction must be accom-
plished by welding and cutting. Welciing time may be saved
by reducing the amount of bead applied to the recoil rods on the
37-mm gun, reducing the time for this task from 4 minutes to 2
minutes each. Cutting may be reduced by effecting destruction
of the axle and pintle of the 37-mm and 105-mm weapons by
means of demolitions. This will eliminate 5 minutes each on
the guns, and 15 minutes each on the howitzers. Time required
for the additional demolitions will be 14 weapons at 5 minutes
each. TNT required will be 8 guns at 2 blocks each, plus 6
howitzers at 3 blocks each, or 17 pounds. Two extra demolition
crews may be organized for the job, reducing the number of
men available for hand destruction to 77.
it. Revision. — The plan is revised accordingly; the revised
artillery sheet is given in I below.
(1) Revised times are —
Hand destruction.. . 14.3/77X60 11 minutes (11.14)
Welding... 0.4/1X60 24 minutes
Cutting _ 2.4/5X60 29 minutes
Demolition... 1.5/3 X 60 30 minutes
(2) The distribution of the men who are to perform hand
destruction is as follows:
Small arms. 13.0X60/11.14 69
Artillery None
Instruments 0.2X60/11.14 2 (no section
Automotive 0.6X60/11.14 3 should have
Miscellaneous 0.5X60/11.14 3 less than 2
— men)
77
12
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
"8
IWj,
tnoj,
tnoj,
HOBS
3 §
8 3
sjnoq-umii l«10j,
t|1 3
V V ID
SI I 3
I- p
-a o
t; ^ c
19*1
? * °
B - I 3 S
— p S) W
O
ml
3 * S
» s a
a . « s
a g § S
S -3 -a «
S i =j ■
3 * B 8
MS
W
s
■3
s « S
111
1 1| a
o o o '
y t* ch
13
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
■ 3. Assignment of Personnel, Exclusive of Supervisor?
Personnel. — A roster will be prepared giving the assignments
Jt>y name, including supervisory personnel. The duties of each
team or squad will be specifically stated in detail.
To
cn
to
n
From
m
a
t-
e
c
c
P
o
o
c
CO
n
C
£
-1
ll
™ o
> 3
s
1
s sr
o «
1
E
<o
K
<
£3
<
n"
u
o
p
2
10*
2
14
11
11
Artillery section.
7
1
6
7
20
2
11
42
3
3
IS
13
84
Total
69
2
3
3
3
15
IS
18
140
■ 4. Summary or Materials Required. — This material should
be obtained and kept on hand at all times. The demolition
material Bhould include an abundant supply of nonelectric
detonators and slow burning fuses, even if electric equipment
and detonators are available.
14
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE- FIELD
Toam or squad
TNT
(pounds)
Gasoline
(gallons)
Oiygen
(drams)
Acetylene
(drums)
Welding
rod
(pounds)
Small arms
17
1
3
3
4
4
»
105
8
10
Total
26
124
3
3
4
|A. Q. 300.7 (21 Jan 44).] (C 4, 19 Feb 44.)
Br ohdeh of the Secretart op War:
G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Staff.
Official:
J. A. ULIO,
Major General,
The Adjutant Qeneral.
15
i. (. sovm»«E»T pmiTiit orncii 1144
FM 9-5
C 3
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Changes! WAR DEPARTMENT,
No. 3 I Washington 25, D, C, 30 December 1943.
FM 9-5, 11 July 1942, is changed as follows ;
■ 13. Requirements (Superseded). — a. General, — Initial re-
quirements of supplies for a new theater of operations are
usually incorporated in the plans of the War Department.
These requirements, together with their shipment dates, are
reviewed by the appointed theater commander prior to his de-
parture for the theater. Thereafter the theater commander
requisitions additional requirements or replenishment supplies
from the zone of the interior through the port of embarkation
serving his theater.
6. Requisitions. — Requisitions submitted subsequent to supply
of initial requirements are filled in accordance with priorities
established by the War Department with due consideration being
given to the detailed desires of the theater commander as to
priority of items and dates of shipment. Within the theater
of operations, supply services must insure the timely anticipa-
tion of requirements by careful planning and early submission
of requisitions.
c. Busic loads of ordnance units. — (1) Ordnance units which
are organic with tactical organizations will carry spare parts
and tools when entering any theater of operations.
(2) Ordnance units which are part of ft task force destined
to occupy a new theater of operations will carry their full basic
loads of tools and spare parts on debarkation in accordance
with the ordnance materiel of the task force and with the
ordnance plan.
(3) Ordnance units going to an already established theater
will carry the tools and spare parts listed in the appropriate
SXL in the N Group or in the event this SNL has not been
published, the units will carry the tools and spare parts com-
puted from the T/BA or appropriate T/E and pertinent SNL
addenda. These units will not carry special spare parts and
tools upon embarkation unless their specific mission is known.
These special spare parts and tools will be drawn from the
oversea depots upon arrival.
(4) Theater ordnance officers must make certain that depots
in their theater are stocked with tools and spare parts covering
the maintenance requirements of the ordnance materiel being
shipped or about to be shipped to the theater.
[A. G. 300.7 (21 Dec 43).] (C 3. 30 Dec 43.)
By order of the Secretary of War :
G. C. MARSHALL,
OMm: Chief of Staff.
J. A. ULIO,
Major General,
The Adjutant General.
T>67209° 44 U. »- SOVEWHMEtiT FMHTlHfl OFFICE,
PM 9-5
C 3
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Changes] WAR DEPARTMENT,
No. 2 J Washington 25, D. C, 17 September 1943.
FM 9-5, 11 July 1942, is changed as follows :
■ 38. General — Ordnance troops with air forces are divided
into three categories :
a. Ordnance sections of the headquarters of the various staff
echelons.
b. Ordnance sections which are an integral part of a tactical
squadron.
c. Ordnance companies.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2. 17 Sep 43.)
■ 39. Ordnance Sections. — a. Staff sections— Ordnance sec-
tions for the performance of special staff functions are found
in the headquarters of the following organizations;
Army Air Forces
Air forces
Air force commands
Air depot groups
Service groups
Wings
Other prescribed Army Air Forces training and tech-
nical installations.
The officer and enlisted personnel for the ordnance sections of
the above mentioned organizations are included in the Table
of Organization of the pertinent headquarters and headquarters
squadron. (See app. III.)
6. (Added.) Tactical sections— Ordnance sections which are
an integral part of the tactical squadrons are included in —
Bombardment squadrons.
Fighter squadrons.
Observation squadrons.
Photographic squadrons.
Reconnaissance squadrons.
Airdrome squadrons.
549053° — 43 1
ORDXAXCE FIELD MANUAL
3!ha officer and enlisted personnel of the above ordnance sections
are included in the pertinent Table of Organization. (See app,
III.) For the functions and operations of these sections, see
paragraphs 105 and 106.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 40. Ordnance Companies, Aviation. — Ordnance service for
aviation units is performed by the" following ordnance
companies:
a. (Superseded.) Ordnance supply and maintenance company,
aviation (T/O &-417). — One of these companies is authorized
for each service squadron. Its function is the supply of all
items of ordnance general supply In a service center area; the
repair and maintenance of all ordnance materiel, within the
capabilities of its equipment (third echelon) ; the evacuation of
all unserviceable equipment which is beyond repair with avail-
able facilities; and the operation of a reserve ammunition re-
filling point (RP) for all combat units located in the service
..center area.
6. (Superseded.) Ordnance maintenance company, air force
(T/O 9-257). — The normal assignment is one per air force gen-
eral depot. It establishes and operates a mobile or fixed shop
-in conjunction with the air force general depot for the main-
tenance, repair, and evacuation of ordnance materiel in the
hands of air force units. It is the highest echelon of ordnance
maintenance under the control of the Army Air Forces. Main-
tenance requirements beyond the capabilities of these facilities
are evacuated to base shops in the communications zone.
e. ( Superseded ) Ordnance depot company (T. O. !)-57). —
Au ordnance depot company is normally assigned for each air
force general depot. It establishes and operates the ordnance
section of the depot Its function is to store and issue class II
and IV ordnance supplies.
d. (Added.) Ordnance ammunition company (T/O 9-17). —
Normal assignment is one company per air force. It establishes,
operates, and maintains the air force ammunition depot. It
supplies bombs and other ammunition direct to the squadron
distributing points and/or to the service center refilling points.
e, (Added.) Ordnance service company, aviation. — This com-
pany is established on special authorization and is assigned
to air forces and commands for the purpose of augmenting the
o
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Ordnance sections of base headquarters and air base, squadrons
where necessary. It is also assigned to the named air service
commands in the zone of the interior where it is responsible for
ordnance maintenance.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.) '
■ 41. Mission of Obdnance Department. — The mission of the
Ordnance Department in the theater of operations is the sup-
ply and maintanance of prescribed articles, including generally
nil arms, armament, ammnnition, tanks, ordnance vehicles, and
other equipment and supplies issued by the Ordnance Depart-
ment.
[A. G. 300.T (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, IT Sep 43.)
■ 43. Organization. — The initial personnel for the theater ord-
nance office will be prescribed by the commander of the field
forces, and its subsequent expansion will be in accordance with
the directives of the theater commander.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 48).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 46. Rei-attonship of Ordnance Staff Officers. — The ord-
nance Staff officer, theater of operations, exercises control over
ordnance activities through the ordnance officer, communica-
tions zone; the ordnance officers at the regulating stations;
the air force ordnance officers; and the army ordnance officers.
Figure 7 shows the relationship of these staff officers.
[A. G, ;i00.7 (13 Aug 43 ) . ] (C 2, 17 Sep 43. )
■ 48. Ge.vekal.
*****
c. Function of uase and forward de.poU.~- Supplies arriving
in * * * of this level. (See par. 186, 1.)
*****
[A. C :t00.7 (13 Aug 4,'t). J (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 52, Opkbation of Depots.^*. Control of ztockagea and is-
sues. — The organization and administration of communications
zone depots are direct responsibilities of the ordnance officer,
communications zone. Their operation is in conformity with
3
OEDXAXCE FIELD MANUAL
^he ordnance provisioning system. Stocks !ire prescribed
* * * see figure 9.
* * * * *
[A. G. 300. T (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 58. Mission. — The array ordnance * * * at its disposal.
This includes the evacuation of ordnance materiel from ord-
nance collecting points to the proper ordnance shop for repair.
[A, G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 60. Responsibilities and Duties. — a. Responsibilities.
* * * * *
(7) Collection and evaluation of Information concerning
enemy ordnance materiel in order to effect the maximum ex-
ploitation of enemy resources and materiel.
(8) (Added.) Operation of the necessary facilities for the
evacuation of ordnance materiel from the forward echelons to
the rear for repair.
* * is * *
[A. G. 300.7 <13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 02. Organization and Facilities. — n. General. — The army
ordnance service consists of an ordnance section and such
troops as may be required for the performance of the ordnance
maintenance and supply functions of the army. The number
and nature of the troops assigned are dependent upon the
number and types of combat troops assigned to the army.
Normally, there will * * * a single series,
6. Army ordnance office. — A suggested organization of the
army ordnance office is Shown in figure 11. A discussion of this
organization follows :
*****
(2) The chief of the operations division must be constantly
in liaison with the army G-2, and G-3, in order to keep abreast
of the tactical situation. He must maintain, * * * at frequent
intervals.
(3) The maintenance and general supply division has general
supervision of ordnance maintenance operations and the flow of
general supply. It has direct * * * in lower echelons. ■
4
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
(4) The ammunition supply division functions, In relation to
ammunition supply, in a manner similar to that of the main-
tenance and general supply section.
c. { Superseded. ) Maintenance and supply. — Maintenance and
supply functions within each army are carried out by ordnance
companies grouped together in several battalions. Each of these
battalions consists of from two to five companies under a battalion
headquarters and headquarters detachment (T/O 9-76). The
greatest of flexibility can and should be exercised in the use of
army ordnance troops. Army ordnance battalions will nor-
mally be in two general locations ; in the rear or army area, and in
the corps areas.
(1) In corps areas. — Those battalions in the corps areas will
normally be of the third echelon maintenance type, including
evacuation companies, but not normally including depot com-
panies. These battalions must be quite mobile. Disabled equip-
ment, the repair of which Is not practicable within the time
available, should be displaced freely to the rear to prevent its
becoming an encumbrance. The battalions will dispatch such
contact parties to the supported troops as may be required.
Any one or more of these battalions may be attached to the
corps if conditions warrant such action.
(2) In army area. — The battalions in the army area may be
composed of various types of companies to do general supply
and maintenance work, or they may contain only similar com-
panies to do specialized work as the situation demands. It is
preferable to have one shop specializing in maintenance of
automotive equipment of the transport type, one specializing in
antiaircraft equipment, and one for armament in general.
Similarly, the depot companies charged with storage and issue
to troops (as distinguished from issues to shops) may be
grouped into one battalion, even though there may be several
depots and any one of these depots may be divided into sections
with groups of ordnance items stored in separate locations.
The alternative is to have the issue depots adjacent to and
operating under the appropriate specialized shop battalion.
<Z. (Superseded.) Anvniunition. — The army function in am-
munition supply is administered in the same manner as is
the maintenance, function, that is, ammunition depots or supply
points are established by army, utilizing ammunition battal-
5
ORDNANCE FIELD IMANUAL
■ions, within reach of organizational trains Of divisions or other
units. The detailed procedure of ammunition supply is con-
tained in FM £M5. Vehicles which are dispatched to the rear
for ammunition should be utilized, when practicable, for the
evacuation of materiel and wounded personnel.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 48). 1 (C 2, 17 Sep *'.'..)
■ 63. Operations. — a. (Superseded.) Ammunition supply. — For
administrative details of ammunition supply, see Fil 9-<3.
b. General supplies. — (1) General. — General supplies are
* * * items becomes critical. (For details of supply ad-
ministration, see FM 9-25.)
(2) (Added.) General method of supply. — {a) Automotive. —
Medium maintenance units turn in to an army depot any un-
serviceable vehicle beyond third echelon repairs for immediate
replacement by exchange. The army depot then evacuates the
vehicle to an appropriate maintenance unit for repair and
return to stock of the depot. If no exchange item is immediate-
ly available, and the vehicle is economically repairable, it is
sent to an appropriate repair unit by the army depot for repair
and return to the using organization. When vehicles must
be issued and there is no disabled vehicle to be presented in
exchange, the battalion commander assigns personnel to deliver
the vehicle to the appropriate third echelon maintenance unit
for delivery to the using troops.
(t>) Weapons and accasxoric*. — The supply of other major
items, accessories, etc., is made from the army depols, by
direct exchange or request from army or division ordnance
units. The supply to troops is augmented by third echelon
maintenance units as indicated in paragraph 33a (1), C 1. A'
prescribed amount of major items will be carried by main-
tenance units for quick supply to the troops. When the supply
status is restricted, units and organizations within the army
may be required to submit their requisitions to the ordnance
officer of the army who will exercise the necessary control
to insure the equitable distribution of the restricted supply
in accordance with policies prescribed by the army commander.
(c) Parts. — Assemblies, subassemblies, and parts required
by using organizations will be obtained by them at the nearest
ordnance third echelon maintenance unit, normally by direct
exchange. Third echelon maintenance units in turn obtain
6
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
resupplies from the nearest depot (normal) or heavy mainte-
nance unit. Heavy maintenance units obtain resupplies from
army depots or from bases.
c. Maintenance. — Periodic reports of the work performed and
the status of work currently in the shops will be submitted by
maintenance company commanders through battalion comman-
ders to the army ordnance officer. Whenever the status * * *
by lower echelons. All ordnance maintenance throughout the
army will be supervised by the army ordnance officer assisted
by the commanding officers of the ordnance battalions.
The standards of * * * and theater commanders. Modi-
fications of ordnance rnatgrlel will not be made without proper
authority, but when authorized, as much of this work as possible
will be done by army maintenance units. (For details per-
taining to maintenance operations, see EM 9-10.)
IA. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 63.1. (Added.) Utilization of Army Ordnance Tboops. —
«. Delivery of supplies. — The army Will make delivery from its
depot stocks directly to railheads, or other designated points,
normally utilizing the following methods :
(1) For track-laying vehicles — depot personnel, fourth echelon
units, and/or evacuation companies.
(2) For other automotive vehicles — under own power, driven
by personnel of the depot company (except when direct exchange
is made by third echelon personnel), and/or truck regiment
personnel.
(3) For wheeled artillery — by personnel and truck from third
echelon units, the organization making the request, evacuation
companies, and/or truck regiment personnel.
(4) For other equipment — the most suitable of the above.
7>. Evacuation and resupply. — Battlefield recovery is the func-
tion of the division or other using unit. Evacuation and re-
supply is the function of the service units above the division.
Evacuation service Is primarily an army or theater function
of transporting recovered materiel which has been severely
damaged, from ordnance collecting points and points on the
axis of evacuation, or from maintenance establishments, to army
repair centers, railheads, or communications zone bases. Dam-
aged materiel is placed at the collecting points by combat per-
sonnel (supplemented by service personnel if necessary). Evac-
7
ORDINANCE FIELD MANUAL
uation companies are designed to transport all types of heavy
materiel, but particularly tanks, sell-propelled artillery, and
other track-laying vehicles. They may be used to transport
heavy engineer equipment when feasible. Evacuation units
should be utilized to the maximum in carrying equipment and
supplies forward at all times. If the situation requires it, sep-
arate evacuation companies may be attached to lower echelons,
particularly armored divisions, where the distance from col-
lecting points for recovered vehicles to division repair centers is
beyond the reasonable operating radius of the organic evacua-
tion vehicles.
c. Inspection, — In the normal course of resupply of tanks
and other combat vehicles to units, it is essential that a final in-
spection service be performed at the point where these vehicles
are removed from the transporters of the evacuation units and
turned over to troop units. This sen- ice should be carried out
by selected ordnance heavy maintenance companies (tank),
preferably under a battalion commander, and such other per-
sonnel as is essential to Check the vehicles in every way to see
that they are completely ready for combat. The check will in-
clude mechanical condition, arms serviceability, stowage, items,
ammunition, and, when applicable, food and water. Signal per-
sonnel should be available at this point to check radios.
d. Maintenance units. — (1) Medium maintenance units will
be utilized by army (or corps) to reinforce divisional mainten-
ance units. These medium maintenance units should be suffi-
ciently close to the units being served to give close contact service,
due consideration being given to such aspects of the position as
terrain, road net, cover, and concealment. However, positions
should not be so close to the front as to be within medium
artillery range, or to be endangered by temporary fluctuations
of the front elements.
(2) Heavy maintenance and depot companies should be suf-
ficiently close to medium maintenance companies to give them
the closest practicable support. However, they Should not be so
close to the front lines that their withdrawal, if necessary,
would be impracticable considering their semimoblle character-
istics. Heavy maintenance and depot companies maintain an
aggressive contact with the medium maintenance shops. How-
ever, heavy maintenance shops, once established, should remain
8
ORDXAXCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
in operation in the some locality as long as practicable without
sacrificing service to lower echelons.
(3) When special combat troops such as antiaircraft battal-
ions, tank-destroyer battalions, tank battalions, etc., are at-
tached to army or subordinate commands, the appropriate type
and number of maintenance units will normally be brought
under army command at the same time, So as to preserve the
proper ratio between combat and service units. These main-
teuance units will normally be assigned to appropriate ordnance
battalion headquarters and headquarters detachments so that
their special qualifications may be properly utilized. ■
(4) In general, maintenance companies should be "leap-
frogged" as the using units move. This will enable each com-
pany to have as long a time as practicable to complete the work
mi hand. This may involve frequent regroupings among battal-
ions. Maintenance units should be informed of the tactical
situation at all times, so that close liaison may be maintained
with units serviced, and appropriate defensive measures taken.
Maintenance units should be disposed laterally and in depth so
as to offer the best possible service to the combut troops.
(n) Administrative orders will normally announce assign-
ments (or service by battalions, leaving the further distribution
of work and responsibility among the companies to the battalion
commander. These orders must make clear the responsibility
of the corps in case of interrupted communications, or other
conditions.
[A. G. 300.7 <13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 64. Mission.— The mission of ordnance service in a corps
acting alone is the same as in the army. When a corps is part
of an army it operates, as far as practicable, as a purely
tactical unit. The functions of supply and maintenance are
normally performed by the army service troops.
[A. G, 300.7 (IS Aug 43).] (C2,]7 Sep 43.)
■ 05. Scope of Activitiks of Corps Ordnance Officer. — The
corps ordnance officer * * * within the corps. He super-
vises the execution of these plans when approved, and com-
mands all ordnance facilities assigned or attached to the corps.
His normal post * * * army ordnance officer.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
54B0n3 t ' — 43 2
9
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
■ 67. Organization and Facilities. Rescinded.
Figure 12 is rescinded and the following substituted therefor:
Corps
Ordnance Office
Administrative
Section
Maintenance and
Supply Section
Ammunition
Section
Figure 12. — Organization of corps ordnance office.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 08. Corps Ordnance Office. — The corps ordnance office may
be divided into three principal sections: the ammunition section,
the administrative section, and the maintenance and. supply-
section.
a. Ammunition section. — The ammunition section is re-
sponsible for all administrative details pertaining to the ammu-
nition supply plan of the corps as prescribed in FM 9-6. This
includes the * * * an d corps troops.
*****
c. (Superseded.) Maintenance and supply section. — This sec-
tion will normally prepare for the corps ordnance officer the
ordnance plan for maintenance and supply within the corps,
and prepare recommendations for submission to the army ord-
nance officer in the name of the corps ordnance officer, on the
number, types and desired locations of army ordnance troops
for ordnance service to the corps. This section will also main-
tain such records of, and prepare such reports on, the main-
tenance and supply status in the corps as may be required
by the corps ordnance officer to keep that officer fully cognizant
of the situation of these factors in the corps.
[A. G. 300,7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 69. (Superseded.) Maintenance and Supply Faculties. —
The corps ordnance officer, in coordination with the appropri-
ate general and special staff officers, will submit to the army
ordnance officer recommendations as to the number, types, and
suggested locations of the necessary army ordnance troops to
carry out the approved ordnance plan for the corps. These rec-
10
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
ommendations are determined by the number and types of com-
bat troops assigned to the corps, and by the tactical situation.
The maintenance and supply organizations operating In the corps
service area will keep the corps and army ordnance officers in-
formed on the status of maintenance and general supply in the
corps, will closely support the maintenance echelons of divisions
and corps troops, and will maintain a sufficient stock level of
spare parts and replacement items to provide the necessary
continuity in the maintenance operations within the corps. (For
details concerning maintenance and supply, see FM 0-10 and
9-25.)
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 70. General Supply. Rescinded.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43,)
.■ 71. Ammunition Supply. (Superseded.). — For the adminis-
trative procedure relative to ammunition supply, see FM 9-6.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 72. Mission. — The mission of ordnance service in the division
involves the handling of the administrative details pertaining to
ammunition supply within the division, the supply and mainte-
nance of ordnance materiel within the capabilities of the divi-
sional ordnance troops, and the provision of liaison between the
combat troops of the division and the facilities and agencies of
the army ordnance service.
1A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug. 43).] C 2, 17 Sey 43.)
■ 73. Scope of Activities op Division Ordnance 0*mceb
(DOO). — The division ordnance * * * they are approved.
He commands the division ordnance troops, but leaves to the
unit commander the normal duties of administration and in-
terior functioning. His normal post is at the forward command
post of the division. The responsibilities and duties of the divi-
sion ordnance officer correspond, with proper modifications, to
those described in paragraph 60 for the army ordnance office. The
division ordnance officer will usually find it of assistance in
the efficient accomplishment of his mission to maintain an
ordnance situation map or chart showing the distribution of
11
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
the facilities under his control and also the location of the
troops being supported.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 75. Organization and Facilities (Superseded.).' — a. Gen-
eral. — Ordnance service within the division is furnished by the
division ordnance section and division ordnance troops. A
suggested organization of ordnance service in an infantry-
division is shown diagrammatieally in figure 13. The ordnance
organization in other types of divisions will be similar to that
shown, the major difference being in the maintenance unit
assigned.
6. Ordnance troops. — The ordnance troop units organically
assigned to the various type divisions are discussed in paragraph
33a(l), O 1. These troops will perform such of the third echelon
maintenance and supply functions for the division as are within
their capabilities. They will be supported by medium and/or
heavy army ordnance units.
c. Division ordnance section* — The headquarters office of the
division ordnance officer is organized to assist that officer in
his staff functions. It is located at the forward echelon of
the division command post and may be subdivided into two
coordinate elements : the maintenance and supply section, and
the division ammunition office.
Figure 13 is rescinded and the following substituted therefor;
Division
Ordnance Officer
Ordnance Section
Division Headquarters
Ordnance Light
Maintenance Company
Division
Ammunition Office
Maintenance and
Supply Section
Figure 13. — Organization of ordnance service, infantry division.
[A. O. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
(1) Maintenance and Supply section. — The function of this
section is similar, with the necessary modifications, to those of
12
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
the corresponding sections of tlie corps and army ordnance
offices as described in paragraphs 626 (3) and 08c of this change.
(2) Division ammunition office. — For details pertaining to
this office and the administrative details of ammunition supply,
see FM 9-6.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 76. Ammunition Supply. Rescinded.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
H 77. Aixocattons of Credit. Rescinded.
[A, G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 78. Procurement of Ammunition by Combat Troops. Re-
scinded.
fA. G, 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 80. Division Ammunition Office (DAO). Rescinded.
[A. G. 300.7 <13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 81. Maintenance and General Supply. Rescinded.
[A.G.300.7 <lSAug43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 82. Maintenance Operations. Rescinded.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 83. Ordnance Service in Infantry Division (Square). Re-
scinded.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 84. References. Rescinded.
[A, G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
13
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
Figures 14 and 15 are rescinded and the following substituted
therefor :
AIR S5HVICE
COIHAND
ARMY
air ratcES
AIR
FORCE
ORDHAHCE
SECTIOS
orikance
section
OTHER
couaius
Basal
command
one
ORD
section
SECTION
ORD
SECT
AIR FORCE
(AIIITIOmL)
ORDNANCE
SECTION
ORDKANCE
SECTION
AIR FORCE
SERVICE COM1AND
ORDNANCE
AIR DEFENSE
camm
ORB
SECTION
AIR SUPPORT
CatUAND
OSS
SECTION
AIR FORCE
CENEHAI, DEPOT
ORD. CO.
DEPOT
ORD. CO.
luurr,
A.F.
IE FORCE
AIM. IEPOT
SERVICE
CENTER
ORDNANCE
SECTION
ORDNANCE CO.
SOPPLT 6 UAIHT
ORDNANCE CO. _
SDPPU £ miNT
AummrriON
AKUAUENT
AUTO HABIT
SUPFLT
SECTIOH
SECTIOK
SECTION
SECTION
Figure 14. — Organization of ordnance service. Army Air Forces.
£A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
14
OKDNAXCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
AIR
□BDBAKCE
EXECUTIVE
OFFICER
0RGA3ISATICJI &
TRAIHIKG BRAKE
EPQlBEERINCr
PLAKS BBAECH
5 8
s g
Figure 15. — Headquarters office, ordnance officer, Army Air Forces.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43). J (C 2, IT Sep 43.)
■ 86. Mission. — The mission of ordnance service in the Army
Air Forces includes —
*****
d. Operation of air force ordnance depots and ordnance sec-
tions of air force depots, service centers or air bases, and
ammunition distributing points.
g. (Added.) Making or causing to be made the necessary
inspections of ordnance activities throughout all echelons of the
Army Air Forces.
15
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ft. (Added.) Collection, study, and distribution of informa-
tion pertaining to enemy ordnance materiel, and recommenda-
tions concerning it.
i. (Added.) Supervision and coordination of all ordnance
activities within the Army Air Forces.
Note. (Added.). — Service centers and air bases are analogous estab-
lishments. The service center is the theater of operations establishment
which performs functions corresponding to those of the air base in the
continental United States. Therefore, functions ascribed In this manual
to service centers may also be ascribed to air bases.
[A. G. S00.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 87. Ordnance Section, Abmy Air Forces. (Superseded.). —
a. General. — The air ordnance officer, headquarters, Army Air
Forces, has the normal duties of a special staff officer. His duties
require that he review and make recommendations to the Com-
manding General, Army Air Forces, on all matters pertaining to
ordnance; act as advisor to the Air Staff on ordnance matters;
and act as liaison between the Commanding Generals, Army
Air Forces and Army Service Forces on all ordnance matters.
He also acts as liaison agent between the Army Air Forces and
the Bureau of Ordnance, Navy Department.
6. Headquarters office. — The office of the air ordnance officer,
Army Air Forces, is divided into three sections as follows (see
fig. 15) :
(1) Supply division. — The supply division is charged with —
(a) The supply and distribution of combat ammunition items
to all subordinate headquarters, and the maintenance of the
necessary records of requests for, and status of, ammunition
items.
(6) Liaison between headquarters, Army Air Forces, and the
Air Service Command concerning the status of credit and con-
trolled items of equipment, materials, and supplies.
(c) Liaison between the director of military requirements
and requirements division, Army Service Forces, for informa-
tion and data necessary for computation of Army Air Forces
requirements.
(2) Organisation and training division. — This section is
charged with —
{a) The study of recommended changes of all phases of avia-
tion ordnance organization.
16
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
(6) The responsibility for the preparation and coordination
of training standards for ordnance units with the Army Air
Forces.
(c) The collection and maintenance of information on the
status of assigned ordnance troops as to units, strength, and
state of training.
(d) The initiation of corrective action whenever the existing
status of (c) above is determined to be unsatisfactory.
(3) Engineering planning division. — This section is charged
with —
(a) The evaluation of plans concerning the development, to
meet experimental and tactical requirements, of all ordnance
materiel and ammunition employed by organizations of the
Army Air Forces.
(!>) The assembly of all data pertaining to the standardiza-
tion of ordnance items peculiar to the Army Air. Forces.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 88. General Supply (Superseded.) — a. The supply of ord-
nance credit items other than those of exclusive interest to the
Army Air Forces will be effected in the same maimer as to the
Army Service Forces and Army Ground Forces. All major items
in stock at depots are available to meet requirements of units in
the. area supplied by the depot. The priority for supply will be
the same as for the issue of controlled items. In order to pro-
vide a stockage of noncontrolled items for emergency Issues,
the commanding general, air service command, will maintain
air embarkation stocks at certain localities within the Army Air
Forces.
&. The supply of ordnance items of exclusive interest to the
Army Air Forces such as aircraft weapons, pyrotechnic pro-
jectors, etc., are supplied within the continental United States
and to oversea theaters in accordance with the policies estab-
lished by the commanding general, air service command.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 89. Ammunition Supply. — Control of ammunition service in
the Army Air Forces Is accomplished by means of a system of
authorizations and reports of expenditure. (Ammunition re-
549953° — 43 3 17
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ferred to herein is defined as including all class V supplies.)
There are two kinds of authorizations, as follows :
*****
[A. G. 30O.7 (]S Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 00. Administrative Details of Ammunition Supply. — a.
Supply authorities. — The Army Air Forces Issues supply authori-
ties to the air force or command concerned for the ammunition
to be made available to it in depots in the zone of the interior or
elsewhere. The commanding general of the air force or air
force command decides on the types of missions and the stock
levels to be maintained in the air force depot, the air base RP's
and airdrome DP's. He then issues * * * air force instal-
lations. (See fig. 16.)
*****
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
18
OHDSTAXCE SERVICE IN" THE ITELD
Figures 16, 17, 18, and 19 are rescinded and the following sub-
stituted therefor
SQUADSCN
ffijHUNITKJN SUPPLI AUIKOftrKf lOiSH
COPI OF JU1SA
STOCK LEVEL COTES £SL0)
,0 COPY OF SLO
— BEQUISITIOH
Figure 1C. — Ammunition supply.
IA. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, i7 Sep 43.)
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
ARMY AIR
FORCES
OH
THEATER
ccumahder
AIR
FORCE
BOMBER
COfXAND
group
AIR FORCE
DEPOT
a
AIR
AIR
SUPPORT
DEFENSE
COtSiASD
CCUUAND
SEFIICE
CEWTER
SERVICE
CENTER R.P,
a
EXPENDITURE AUTHORITY
(A1KA)
COPY OF AHXA
FiCOre 18. — Ammunition expenditure.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
21
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
arut air
FORCES
OR
THEATER
COJflUjnjeR
z or i
topct
Q
air
FOSCS
in roues
depot
Q
AH
AIR
SDPPCET
DgFERSE
service
com™)
cebtea
_ EIFRHDITDRB REPORT
. COPT OF EXPENDITURE REPORT
. STATUS 07 STOCIS REPORT
- COPT OF STAKE OF STOCIS REPORT
Figure 10. — Ammunition reports.
[A. G. 30O.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 91. Maintenance. — The responsibility for maintenance and
technical inspection of ordnance materiel in the Army Air Forces
is delegated to the air forces and commands. The Army Air
Forces, when required, arranges for evacuation of unserviceable
materiel from the air forces and commands. (See see. V,
ch. 3, FM 1-195.)
EA. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
22
OKDNAJJCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Section II (Superseded)
AIR SERVICE COMMAND
■ 92. General. — The air service command is the supporting
maintenance and supply agency for the Army Air Forces. Its
installations and facilities in the zone of the interior operate
under the control of the Commanding General, Army Air Forces.
In a theater of operations, these facilities operate under the
control Of the theater commander.
[A. G. 300,7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 93. Organization. — a. General. — Due to differences in service
functions required of task forces as against operations within
the continental limits, it is necessary to establish two plane.
Within the continental limits, service functions are increased
to include the activation, organization, training, and equipping
of service units {air depot groups and service groups) for as-
signment to task forces. (See fig. 19.1.) In the zone of the
interior, more extensive permanent construction will be under-
taken, and more elaborate facilities for supply and maintenance
established than in a theater of operations. Responsibility for
most service functions in the Army Air Forces at home rests with
a command separate from the air forces, namely the air service
command. In a task air force, service functions revert to the
control of the air force commander. For a detailed discussion of
the organization and functions of this command, see Army Air
Forces Regulations 65-1.
23
OEDNAXCE FIELD MANUAL
Air Service
Command
Service Units in
Training:
Air Dcpo; and Air
Service Groups
Named Service
Commands
Subdepots
Pigube 19.1. — Air Servieo Command.
[A. Q. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
6. In zone of interior (see fig. 19.1). — The air service com-
mand is organized in the United States into a headquarters and
11 named air service commands. These air service commands are
named after the air depot, designated for a definitely prescribed
geographical area, for example, Fairfield Air Service Command.
They consist of the headquarters control air depot, and its
subordinate subdepots.
(1) Control air depots are the headquarters of the named air
service commands. They are permanent in nature and perform
major overhaul of aircraft for any air force units m the pre-
scribed area.
(2) Subdepots are subordinate echelons of the named air
service commands. They are located at air force stations within
the area serviced by the particular air service command. They
store, issue, and perform third echelon maintenance for all
equipment which the Anny Air Forces designs and procures.
c. In theater of operations. — (1) General. — Air service com-
mand units in a tusk air force are analogous to those found in
24
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
the United States. In the theater, these units operate under the
control of the air force commander.
(2) Air force service command headquarters. — There is as-
signed to each air force in a theater of operations, an air force
service command, for example, XII Air Force Service Command.
The headquarters of this command is operated by the headquar-
ters and headquarters squadron, air service command (task
force) (T/O 1— KW-2S). This organization is analogous to the
headquarters of the air service command in the United States.
(3) Air force general depot. — This is the theater installation
analogous to the air depot in the United States. One or more
air force general depots are established for each air force.
They are established and operated by mobile air depot groups.
(4) Air force ammunition depot. — This is a theater of opera-
tions installation and is operated by the ordnance ammunition
company (T/O 9-17). It supplies bombs and other ammunition
direct to the squadron distributing points and/or service center
refilling points. The transportation of ammunition is a function
of the Quartermaster Corps. The number and size of ammu-
nition depots will depend on the size of the air force and
upon the character of operations.
(5) Service center. — The service center is analogous to Sub- 1
depots or air bases in the United States. They are manned
by service groups (one service group per service center), and
furnish service for two combat, or tactical, groups. (See pars.
100 to 104, incl.)
[A. O. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43,)
■ 94. Functions. — The Air Service Command operates as a
supporting maintenance and supply agency for the several
air forces. It receives newly procured equipment from manu-
facturing sources in the zone of the interior, and stores and
issues such equipment to the air forces as required. It re-
ceives for repair, from field units and other sources, damaged
equipment and such repair work as is beyond the facilities of
the air forces or separate 1 commands. (See par. 98.)
[A. O. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 95. Organization of Ohdnance Sebvice In Aib Service Com-
mand. — The organization of the ordnanee service in the air
serviee command includes:
25
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
a. The ordnance section of the staff of the commanding general,
air service command, and of the commanders of the named air
service commands.
6. One aviation company (service) consisting of a small sec-
tion of approximately six men for each of the air depots. The
company commander is located at the headquarters of the air
service command.
c. There Is no ordnance personnel at any of the subdepots.
Repairs to ordnance materiel at snbdepots are normally made by
ordnance tactical organizations which ai - e organic in the air
force squadrons at the station,
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug4S).] (C2. 17 Sep 43.)
■ 96. Functions of Okdnance Service) in Air Sekvioe Com-
mand. — a. Expansibilities of ordnance officer, air service com-
mand. — In addition to the usual responsibilities and duties of an
ordnance staff officer, the ordnance officer, air service command,
is responsible for —
(1) Supply of aircraft machine guns and cannon for initial
equipment of new airplanes.
(2) Supply of aircraft machine guns and cannon to air de-
pots.
(3) Supply of ammunition, including pyrotechnics, at air
depots.
(4) Supervision of credits set up by the Commanding Gen-
eral, Army Air Forces, for noncontrollcd items of supplies which
pertain to aircraft armament in the various depots of the Ord-
nance Department in the United States.
6. Functions of ordnance troops in air service command, de-
pots. — (1) Air depots. — Ordnance troops at air depots are re-
sponsible for the receipt, storage, and issue of ordnance materiel
and the accomplishment of some minor repairs. Since fixed de-
pots are located only in the United States, complete overhaul
can be performed at regular ordnance arsenals and idmilar in-
stallations.
(2) Mobile, air depots. — Ordnance troops at mobile air depots
are responsible for the complete overhaul of ordnance equip-
ment installed on airplanes which are sent to the depot for over-
haul. In addition, these depots have responsibility for the
receipt, storage, and Issiie of ordnance materiel.
[A. ti. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2. 17 Sep 43.)
26
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Section III (Supeeseded)
IN' AN AIR FORCE
■ 97. General. — The ordnance officer of an air force Is charged
with the normal duties of a special staff officer. He operates
under the technical supervision of the theater ordnance officer.
He coordinates ordnance service in the air force service com-
mand, bomber command, air defense command, and air support
command. When only one air force is operating In a theater,
the air force headquarters will function as the air office of the
headquarters of the theater commander.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 98. Ordnance Service in Task Air Force. — a. General. —
There is an ordnance officer on the special staff of the command-
ing general of a task air force, and on the special staffs of each
of the commands under his jurisdiction. The detailed control
and operation of ordnance service activities of the task air force
is the responsibility of the ordnance officer of the air force service
command. This officer has an adequate ordnance section for the
maintenance of the necessary control and Supervision of ordnance
service activities in the air force. The strength and composition
of the assigned ordnance troops depend on the following factors:
(1) Strength and composition of combat units.
(2) Location of theater and nature of terrain.
(3) Availability of local supplies and ground force supply
points.
(4) Number and condition of airdromes.
(5) Probable nature of operations.
6. Ordnance troops. — Ordnance troops In an air force are —
(1.) One or more ordnance depot companies (T/0 £W>7) for
the operation of the ordnance section of the atr force general
depot.
(2) One or more ordnance ammunition companies (T/O 9-17)
for the operation of the air force ammunition depot.
(3) One or more ordnance maintenance companies, air force
(T/O 9-257) for fourth echelon maintenance of all ordnance
equipment used by the air force.
27
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
(4) One or more service center ordnance organizations. (See
par, 102. )
o. Supply. — (1) General. — Credit items of general supply
allocated to the air foree are controlled by reallocation to
service groups. A complete record of the status of credit and
controlled items in all echelons of the air foree is maintained
by the ordnance section, air force service command.
(2) Ammunition. — Ammunition is controlled as outlined in
paragraph 89. Complete records of the status of ammunition
in all echelons oC the air force are maintained by the ordnance
section, air force service command. For a complete discussion
of ammunition supply in the Army Air Forces, see FM 9-6.
d. Maintenance. — Ordnance maintenance in the air force serv-
ice command is performed by the ordnance supply mid mainte-
nance company, aviation (T/O 9-417). It provides technical
information and guidance on maintenance matters to all eche-
lons of the air force. It maintains required records on main-
tenance and inspection in the air force. The ordnance main-
tenance company, air force (T/O 9-2-17), provides the mainte-
nance facilities for work which cannot be accomplished within
the service centers. Arrangements are made for the evacua-
tion of ordnance materiel from the air force area to army
base installations for fifth echelon maintenace work.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (0 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 99. Ordnance Service in Bomber, Am Defense, and Avr S-rn>
poet Commands. — The ordnance officer of these commands has
the normal duties of n special staff officer, with the exception of
the control and supervision of supply and maintenance. The
technical phases of these staff duties are particularly important.
There is an ordnance section in the headquarters of eaeh of these
commands. The ordnance troop units serving these c-omm.mds
are an integral part of, and operate directly under the tactical
(flying) organizations. (See par. 105.)
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
28
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Section IV ( Superseded)
IN A SERVICE CENTER
■ 100. Definition. — A service center is an intermediate supply
point between the air force depots and dispersed squadron air-
dromes. It controls the flow Of all classes of supplies forward
to squadrons. It is the theater of operations substitute for the
permanent base in the continental United States. A Service
center is normally established to provide service for two combat
groups. It Is manned by a service group and allied organiza-
tions and should be close enough to the supported elements to
permit truck delivery of supplies within a turn-around time of
less than 8 hours. The service center provides third echelon
maintenance service.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 3 7 Sep 43.)
B 101. General. — Ordnance service in the service center coin-
prises —
a. Supply of ordnance materiel to the units of the air force
within the service center area.
6. Third echelon ordnance maintenance and evacuation.
c. Supply of completely assembled bombs, pyrotechnics, and
belted aircraft ammunition to ordnance sections of combat
organizations, and if such sections are not available, to the com-
bat airplanes themselves. This supply is effected at any time
as required by the combat unit.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 102. Ordnance Troops. — a. General. — To provide the pre-
scribed ordnance service, ordnance troops are furnished to the
service center commander as follows:
(1) Ordnance section, headquarters and headquarters squad-
ron, service group (T/O 1-412) — one per service center.
(2) Ordnance supply and maintenance company, aviation
(T/O 9-417) — one per service squadron.
6. Operations. — (1) The ordnance section, headquarters, and
headquarters squadron, service group, is the special staff sec-
tion for the service group commander. The senior ordnance
officer in this section is the service center ordnance officer. In
addition to his duties as a special staff officer, he is directly
29
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
responsible for the training and operation of the ordnance sup-
ply and maintenance companies in the service centei* area. He
is likewise charged with the supervision of the ordnance sections
of all airdrome squadrons within the service center area. He
is responsible for maintaining the prescribed stock levels of am-
munition and supplies.
(2) For a description of the operation of the ordnance supply
and maintenance company, aviation, see paragraph 40a.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).) (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
■ 103. Supply. — a. General supply. — A service center refilling
point for ordnance general supplies is established to supply
dispersed airdromes and units at the service center. Service
is direct to each unit airdrome in the area being serviced.
Requisitions and requests for service go direct from each
squadron airdrome to the service center, except when the
squadron is drawing supplies direct from a ground force estab-
lishment. The service center controls the flow of all supplies
from the air force depots to the combat units.
6. Ammunition supply. — A service center refilling point for
ammunition is established in the same manner as for ordnance
general supplies. However, deliveries are normally made direct
from the air force ammunition depot to squadron airdromes,
the service center refilling point being maintained in cases of
temporary break-down In this service. The ordnance section,
headquarters, and headquarters squadron, service group, main-
tains a complete record of the status of ammunition in the
service center area.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, IT Sep 43.)
■ 104. Maintenance. — All third echelon ordnance maintenance
within the service center is performed by the ordnance supply
and maintenance companies, aviation (T/O 9-117). Inspections
of ordnance materiel are made as directed by the service center
commander or higher authority. The ordnance section, head-
quarters and headquarters squadron, service group, maintains
complete records of the status of maintenance and inspection
in the service center.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2. 17 Sep 43.)
30
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN TEE FIELD
Section V (Superseded)
AT A DISPERSED AIRDROME
B 105. General. — The organization of an ordnance section with
a tactical (flying) squadron, such as bombardment, observation,
and fighter, provides direct ordnance service to a combat unit
at a dispersed airdrome. The sen-ice establishment at such a
dispersed airdrome is known as the airdrome distributing point.
The distributing point operates directly under the control of
the squadron airdrome commander. The functions of these
ordnance sections are —
a. Maintain all necessary records and prepare all necessary
reports and requisitions pertaining to ordnance.
6. Supervise the establishment and operation of the squadron
ammunition storage area and ordnance maintenance facilities
of the squadron.
c. Direct delivery of ammunition and bombs, completely ready
for use, to the airplanes of the squadron, when and where
needed.
A. Direct the performance of second echelon maintenance of
ordnance equipment of the squadron.
e. The commander of the ordnance section is also the squad-
ron ordnance officer. As such he is responsible for the opera-
tion of the section. His duties and. responsibilities include —
(1) Furnishing the squadron commander with technical ad-
vice on atl matters pertaining to ordnance.
(2) Supervision of the operations and training of the per-
sonnel of the ordnance section of the squadron.
(3) Working in close cooperation with the armament and
operations officer of the squadron in order to prepare in advance
the necessary ordnance plans for contemplated operations.
(4) Under combat conditions, keeping all interested agencies
fully cognizant of the squadron ammunition situation.
(;")) Investigation and recommendations concerning the use
and operation of ordnance materiel.
(0) Making frequent aerial flights to observe the function
of ordnance materiel under actual or simulated combat condi-
tions.
[A. G. 300.7 (13 Aug 43).] (C 2, 17 Sep 43.)
31
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
U 106. StTPPLY. — a. General supply. — The ordnance spare parts
set for an ordnance section is established for the organization
by Standard Nomenclature Lists. This set is normally carried
on the emergency repair truck of tlie ordnance section. It is
replenished from the service center refilling point Complete
records on the status of ordnance general supplies at the air-
drome are maintained by the ordnance section.
6. Ammunition supply. — An ammunition distributing point
is established to provide ammunition for the combat squadrons
and other troops at the dispersed airdrome. Normally deliv-
eries are made directly from the air force ammunition depot to
squadron airdromes, depending oil the local conditions and
routes of communication. A complete record of the status of
ammunition at the distributing point is maintained by the ord-
nance section of the airdrome squadron.
IA. G. 300.7 (13 Aug J3).] (C 2, 17 Sep -IIS.)
32
ORDXANCE SEHVICE IN THE FIELD
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FM 9-5
c l
BASIC .FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
Changes'! WAR DEPARTMENT,
No. 1 J Washington 25, D. C, 21 August 1943.
FM 9-5, 11 July 1942, is changed as follows:
■ 2. Ohoanization of Obottance Service.
*******
6. Geographical organisation of the Army. — There are two
* * * of the interior. The theater of war comprises those
areas of land, air, and sea which are or may become involved
directly in the operations of war. The zone of * * * the
combatant forces.
c. Tactical organization of the Army. — The tactical organiza-
tion of the Army consists of the Army Ground Forces, the Army
Air Forces, the Army Service Forces, and the theaters of opera-
tions.
[A. G. 300.7 (T May 43}.] (C 1, 21 Aug 43. )
■ 3. Ordnaiscj! Service in the Zonb of the Interior.
*******
6. Facilities, — The ordnance facilities available for the accom-
plishment of the ordnance service mission within the zone of the
interior in the United States only, comprise those establishments
under the direct control of the Chief of Ordnance together with
agencies under the immediate supervision of service command
ordnance officers, and those ordnance organizations which are
assigned, or attached to, or organic with, a tactical unit.
The major ordnance * * * of such commands. In technical
matters, however, they operate in close cooperation with the
respective service command ordnance officers, who are represent-
atives of the service command commander are responsible for
the coordination of all ordnance service in the service command.
IA. O. 300.7 ( 7 May 43).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.) ' .
■ 4. Ordnance Staff Officers. — a. Organisation of staff. — The
existence of * * * special staff constituted. The ordnaJice
officer communicates directly with each general staff member
on matters pertaining to their functions, that is, with G-l on
personnel matters, with G-2 on matters dealing with ordnance
545768° — 43
BASIC J' I ELI) MANUAL
intelligence and captured materiel, with G 3 on training and
such aspects of operations as affect ordnance functions, and
with. G-4 on matters of supply and evacuation requiring co-
ordination for inclusion in administrative orders. For com-
plete information * * * FM 100-5, 100-10, and 101-^5.
* . * * * * * *
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May -13).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
■ 5. MiscEiXAa-iious Duties and Responsibilities.
*******
d. Technical functions. — Ordnance stall officers * * *
ordnance major items. They should also be conversant with
serviceability requirements for ammunition, disposal, or demoli-
tion of duds or other unserviceable ammunition, and the provi-
sions of TM 9-1800, 9-981, and 9-1980. Tliey should be
* * * is employed tactically.
*******
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43)-] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
■ 15. Classification of Supplies. — a. Glasses of supplies. — All
supplies issued * * * by FM 100-10. (For classification of
supplies in the Army Air Forces, see Army Air Forces Regu-
lation 65-1.) These classes, which * * * are as follows:
*******
(2) Clans II. — Those authorized supplies for which allowances
are established by Tables of Equipment (or Tables of Basic
Allowances), and Tables of Allowances, such as clothing, gas
masks, arms, automotive vehicles, radio sets, tools, and instru-
ments. (The Army Air Forces except airplane equipment and
automotive vehicles from this class. See (4) below.)
*******
(4) Class IV. — Those articles of supplies which are not cov-
ered in Tables of Equipment and demands for which are directly
related to operations contemplated or in progress (except for
articles in classes III and V), sufch as fortification materials,
construction materials, and machinery. (The Army Air Forces
includes in this class automotive vehicles, complete airplanes,
airplane equipment, and all spare parts and supplies required
to maintain the complete airplane in commission.)
*******
[A. G. H00.7 (7 Mny 43).] (C 1, 2] Auff43.)
2
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THK FIELD
■ 18. Okdnanck General Supplies {fig. 2). — a. General. —
Ordnance general supplies * * * channel of supply.
*******
6. (Added.) Supply procedure in theater of operations. — (1)
Stock level orders. — In an active theater of operations, supply
depots both in the eonmrminications zone and the combat zone
should be so organized as to directly support the next foremost
depot and finally the troops in the combat zone. To effect this
with a minimum of confusion and delay, each depot should be
given a prescribed minimum and maximum stock level, and a
credit on one or more depots in the rear. This will result in all
depots, with the exception of those at the port of debarkation,
having a definite level of stocks on hand at all times. The
depots at the port of debarkation should likewise be given instruc-
tions to maintain certain levels of stock by submitting requisi-
tions for their requirements to the port of embarkation In the
United States. (See par. 636 for details of the supply system
in army depots.)
(2) Reports. — Xhe efficient functioning of this method of sup-
ply will eliminate the need for periodic reports on the status of
stocks, since compliance with instructions will require the main-
tenance of a known status in all echelons, except for depots at
the port of debarkation. These depots will submit general re-
ports to the central headquarters on the status of supply as a
whole and the status of shipments of supplies from the zone
of the interior to the theater. The central office will not submit
requisitions to the ports of embarkation, but may submit general
reports asking that supplies be expedited on requisitions already
Submitted, or giving other information required for planning
purposes.
(3) Controlled items. — In the event that a shortage of certain
items exists, and it is impossible to comply with published in-
structions on the maintenance of stock levels, a letter report will
be submitted to the ordnance officer of the echelon concerned,
giving this information. If the supply situation of these items
is sufficiently critical, the theater ordnance officer may designate
them as "controlled items," and thereafter he will issue credits
for these items or other instructions stating when and where
they wili be issued. Any item may be controlled, that is, major
item, spare part, or a supply item. This procedure will enable
the central headquarters to maintain control over the distribution
3
BASIC FIELD MANUAL
of these critical items and insure their use where they are needed
most.
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] (CI, 21 Aug 43.)
I 1!). Definitions of Ammunition Terms.
*******
b. Groups of ammunition.
****** *
(4) Chemical ammunition, (Superseded). — (a) The Ordnance
Department procures, stores, and distributes to the using arms,
artillery and mortar chemical shells and aerial bombs loaded with
chemical fillers. All other chemical ammunition is procured,
stored, and issued by the Chemical Warfare Service.
(ft) In the field, when chemical personnel are not present, the
Ordnance Department may store and distribute chemical ammu-
nition of types other than those listed in (a) above, except bulk
chemicals and types used only by chemical troops.
(c) In the Army Air Forces, ordnance troops may be required
to store und issue incendiary bombs at the air force service cen-
ter and at operating airdromes.
*******
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] <C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
■ 29. RESPONSIBILITT.
*******
6. Scope.
*******
(4) Rescinded.
o. ( Added. ) Extent. — Ordnance service begins with aiding the
individual soldier and ends with assisting the Chief of Ordnance.
Responsibility begins with the Chief of Ordnance and ends with
the satisfied individual soldier. It is the duty of all intermediate
echelons to insure the continuity of this serylce down to the
soldier and the flow of information and advice up to the Chief of
Ordnance. This can be done best by the strict observance of the
principle that ordnance service extends one echelon up and one
echelon down, that is, third echelon units will assist second and
fourth echelons, while fourth echelon will assist third echelon
and base establishments as required. All ordnance officers and
men must be indoctrinated with this principle.
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
4
OHDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
30. Types of Maintenance. — a. Classification. — Ordnance
maintenance may be considered under the following headings:
(1) Ordnance maintenance performed by combat personnel
(organizational maintenance, that is, first and second eche-
lons).
(2) Ordnance maintenance performed by ordnance personnel
in the combat zone (mobile shop maintenance, that is, third and
fourth echelons).
(3) Ordnance maintenance requiring permanent or semi-
permanent shelter and more time (fixed shop maintenance, that
is, fifth, echelon).
6. Limiting factors. — Maintenance operations to * * *
work normally expected. (AK, 830—15 outlines in detail the
echelons of motor maintenance. Similar echelons exist for
the maintenance of other ordnance materiel.)
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] <C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
■ 31. Maintenance Principles.
*******
g. In the zone of the interior, except during maneuvers,
ordnance materiel which is brought to the shop for repair,
and which has been involved in an accident, will be held in-
tact as received pending the action of the shop officer who will
be promptly notified. Such cases require the action of a
board of officers before the materiel should be repaired and
also requires the submission of certain reports to higher
authority. (See AB 850-15 and 750-10.) In addition to
the above, reports of malfunctions and accidents involving
ammunition in combat will be of especial interest and value
to the Chief of Ordnance. When practicable, these reports
will give the type of malfunction, type of ammunition, lot
number of the complete rounds or separate loading com-
ponents, and conditions under which fired.
k. For a complete discussion of the operation of ordnance
maintenance units, see FM 9-10.
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43. )
■ 32. Txpes and Mission. — a. General. — The ordnance troop
* * * to combat troops. Ordnance troops are also assigned
to the communications zone. Their mission is to support
ordnance troops assigned to tactical organizations in the
communications and combat zones. The mission of ordnance
5
BASIC FIELD MANUAL,
units is to render ordnance maintenance, supply, or technical
service, and to impart instruction in the care, maintenance,
adjustment, and functioning of ordnance materiel.
b. (Added.) Functional types. — Ordnance units are divided,
in accordance with their assigned mission into the following
types :
(1) Maintenance (including evacuation and vehicle assembly
units).
(2) Depot (including vehicle distribution units).
. (3) Ammunition. ^jt \ " •'. / , JU .-. . . . "
c. (Added.) Assignment types. — Ordnane* units may also he
divided, in accordance with their normal assignment, into the
following types :
(1) Army Service Forces units. — All those ordnance organizar
tlons which are not assigned or attached to a tactical unit. The
units operating only in the communications zone of a theater Of
operations (base organizations) are considered under this head-
ing.
(2) Army Ground Forces units. — Those assigned or attached
to Army Ground Forces tactical organizations.
(3) Army Air Forces units. — Those whose typical assignments
and mission are with the Army Ground Forces.
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
■ 33. Organization and Equipment.— a. General. — The baste
ordnance unit is the company. It will habitually keep its
own property and personnel records, make its own author-
ized promotions, and perform its own second (and higher)
echelon of maintenance. (This provision is not intended in
any way to lessen the responsibility of battalion commanders
in training 1 in these matters.) The ordnance company, in its
organization, follows closely the basic principles of company
organization evident throughout the military service. Each
company has been designed with a view to having numbers
of trained personnel and quantities of specialized equipment
sufficient to handle the particular mission for which the com-
pany "is organized. For purposes of administration, tactical
and technical control, the companies, with the exception of
divisional maintenance companies, are normally organized
into battalions. When the requirements of the situation
warrant, battalions may be organized into groups under a
6
ORDXAJfCE SERVICE IX THE VI ELD
group headquarters and headquarters detachment (T/O
9-312).
(1) Divisional units. — Ordnance units which are organic in
divisions comprise the light maintenance company for in-
fantry divisions, the medium maintenance company for
cavalry divisions, an ordnance maintenance battalion for
armored divisions, and special units for airborne or mountain
divisions. The mission of these units is the performance of
such of the third echelon maintenance of ordnance materiel
for the division as Is within their capabilities. They also
perform the functions of ordnance supply of material for
second echelon maintenance to the regiments, battalions, and
separate companies of the division. Divisional maintenance
organizations for the most part will have to be reinforced
by the services of nondivisional maintenance units under
army control. This will be particularly true if combat units
such as tank or tank-destroyer battalions are attached to
the division.
(2) Nondivisional units. — Ordnance companies other than
those specifically organized for, and/or attached to divisions,
are normally grouped together in battalions. (See pars. 35.1
and 37.1.)
(3) Control. — Ordnance units assigned to divisions operate
under the control and direction of the division ordnance
officer. Other ordnance organizations operate under the con-
trol and direction of the army or theater ordnance officer, as
the case may be. For a discussion of the operations of ord-
nance troops, see paragraph 63.1.
(4) Description. — A description of the normal mission and
assignment of the various ordnance units is given in the suc-
ceeding sections of this chapter, and a graphical representa-
tion of a method of assignment in a theater of operations is
shown in figure 5.1.
Subparagraphs a, 6, o, and d are relettered 6, c, d, and e,
respectively.
e. Equipment. — Organizational and individual equipment for
ordnance units is prescribed in the pertinent Table of Equip-
ment (or Table of Basic Allowances No. &), as supplemented
by SJvL Group N.
[A. G. 30O.7 (7 May 43).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
7
BASIC FIELD MANUAL,
■ 34. Military Training and Technical Training.
*•*»**»
6. Basic military training. — The training of the ordnance sol-
dier will be carried out in accordance with current mobilization
training programs (see EM 21-6). Ordinarily the recruit
* * * the proper MTP.
*»**•»*
d. Advanced, training. — Selected officers and men of the organi-
zation may obtain advanced technical training by being sent to
ordnance schools in accordance with quotas covering students
to be sent from each organization as announced from time to
time in War Department orders. In addition to * * * its
specific mission.
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
Section II, With Army Ground Forces, is rescinded and the
following substituted therefor :
Section IV2
ARMY SERVICE FORCES UNITS
■ 35. Obdnance Base Companies. — a. Headquarters and service
company, ordnance base maintenance battalion (armament or
automotive) (T/O 9-316). — There is one of these companies in
each ordnance base maintenance battalion (armament or automo-
tive) (T/O 9-315 or 9-325). It furnishes the necessary admin-
istrative personnel for the supervision and control of the bat-
talion. It also performs service functions for the other com-
panies of the battalion.
6. Ordnance base armored vehicle maintenance company (T/O
9-317). — The normal assignment of this company is one per
ordnance base armament maintenance battalion (T/O 9-315).
It performs fifth echelon maintenance on all armored vehicles.
c. Ordnance base artillery and fire control maintenance com-
pany (T/O 9-318). — This company is normally assigned one per
ordnance base armament battalion (T/O 9-31H). It performs
fifth echelon maintenance on all artillery materiel and on the
fire-control equipment pertaining thereto.
d. Ordnance base small arms maintenance company (T/O
9-319). — Normal assignment is one per ordnance base armnment
8
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
BASIC MELD MANUAL
maintenance battalion (1/0 9-315). ^This company performs
fifth echelon mnintenance on small arms materiel.
e. Ordnance base automotive maintenance company (engine
rebuild) (T/0 0-327). — The normal assignment is two per ord-
nance base automotive maintenance battalion (T/O 9-325). One
of these companies is organized on an assembly line basis capable
of rebuilding approximately 50 in-line engines per day. The
other is organized on a job maintenance basis to take care of
Seven to ten engines per day.
f. Ordnance base automotive maintenance company (power
train rebuild) (T/O 9-323). — The normal assignment is one per
ordnance base automotive maintenance battalion (T/0 9-325).
This company performs fifth echelon maintenance on axles,
chassis, transmissions, transfer cases, differentials, brake drums,
brake cylinders, steering gear boxes, etc.
g. Ordnance motor vehicle distributing company (T/0
9-337). — The normal assignment of this company is In base
battalions With motor vehicle assembly company (T/0 9-348)
in the ratio of one per vehicle assembly company. Its normal
mission is to move new and repaired vehicles to forward areas.
It should be utilized, as the situation permits, to move other sup-
plies forward and to assist in evacuation of unserviceable mate-
riel to the rear.
h. Ordnance motor vehicle assembly company (portable)
(T/0 9-348). — The normal assignment of this company is in
ordnance base battalions as required. It Is responsible for as-
sembling motor vehicles that are shipped in single and twin' unit
packs. It has a capacity of approximately 25 vehicles per day.
i. Ordnance tire repair company (T/O 9-347). — The normal
assignment of this company is in ordnance base battalions as
required. It is charged with the repair and retread of all rubber
tires except those on aircraft and other Army Air Forces equip-
ment. The company has an estimated capacity of 125 retreads
and 300 sectional repairs per day.
;. Ordnance base depot company (T/O 9-377). — This company
is normally assigned to base battalions as required. It furnishes
the necessary personnel for the operation of fixed base depots.
These depots may be either general or branch. The company will
require augmentation by personnel from labor battalions or
native labor. It has a capacity for receiving, storing, and ship-
ping all ordnance major items, and approximately 50 tons of
10
OEDJfAKCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
spare parts per day. This company is also utilized as a shop
supply company in the ordnance base maintenance battalions.
k. Ordnance bomb disposal company (T/O 0-177). — In the
zone of the interior, this company is assigned to defense com-
mands and to service commands. In a theater of operations,
it is assigned as required. It is charged with removal
and disposition of unexploded and time-delay bombs and
ammunition.
I. Ordnance company, service (no T/O). — Ordnance companies,
service, are generally composed of station detachments in a
prescribed area. They are normally utilized in the zone of the
interior service commands, ' and are commanded by the senior
ordnance officer or his representative on the staff of the area
commander. ^ vv . qJ^S , - JU* C
[A. G-. 300.7 (7 May 4.'J).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
Si 35.1. Ordnance Base Battalions. — a. Headquarters and
headquarters detachment, ordnance ba-ttalion (T/O 9^-76). —
Ordnance companies operating in the communications zone, ex-
cept those in the base armament and automotive maintenance
battalions, are normally grouped into battalions under this
headquarters and headquarters detachment. (See par. 37.1.)
Battalions operating in the communications zone are under the
control of the communications zone ordnance officer.
6. Ordnance base armament maintenance battalion (T/O 9-
315). — This is an ordnance base organization assigned to
theaters of operations. It is capable of performing base arma-
ment maintenance for a force comprising nine infantry divisions
or one armored division. It consists of a headquarters and
service company (T/O 9-310), a base depot company (T/O
9-377), a base armored vehicle maintenance company (T/O
9-317), a base artillery and fire control maintenance company
(T/O 9-318), and a small-arms maintenance company (T/O
9-319). The depot company assigned to this battalion and the
base automotive maintenance battalion, is essential for the sup-
ply of the shops of the battalion only, and does not make issues
to line organizations or to other depots. This battalion is de-
signed to operate as a unit and should not be split up into sepa-
rate companies except under very unusual circumstances. It
performs fifth echelon maintenance on all weapons and armored
vehicles.
11
BASIC FIELD MANUAL.
o. Ordnance base automotive maintenance oattalkm (T/O
9-325). — This Is an ordnance base organization assigned to
theaters of operations to perform fifth echelon maintenance for
all general purpose vehicles. It is capable of handling the fifth
echelon maintenance requirements of a force having from 25,000
to 40,000 motor transport vehicles. This battalion consists of a
headquarters and service company (T/O 9-316), two base auto-
motive maintenance companies (engine rebuild) (T/O 9-327),
a base automotive maintenance company (power train rebuild)
(T/O 9-328), and a base depot company (T/O 9-377).
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 48).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
■ 35.2. Headquarters and Headquahteks Detachment, Ordnance
Base Group (T/O 9-312). — When the situation warrants, base
battalions may be organized into ordnance base groups. The
headquarters and headquarters detachment for this group (T/O
9-321), furnishes the necessary personnel for the administration
and supervision of three or more of the following ordnance bat-
talions: base, base automotive, maintenance, base armament
maintenance, and ammunition, ^ . "i •/ ' J t>.*>
"""[A. G-. 300.7 (7 May 43).] (CI, 21 Aug 43.) " (\
Section II
ARMY GROUND FORCES UNIT
■ 36. Obdhance Sections. — There are included in the Table of
Organization of a number of Army Ground Forces headquarters,
ordnance sections composed of a small number of officers and en-
listed men. These sections are concerned entirely with staff
matters, the exact nature of which is dependent on the function
of the headquarters of which they are a part. For a list of these
sections and their strength, see appendix III.
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
■ 37. Obdnancb Companies. — a. Ordnance light maintenance
company, infantry division (T/O 9-8). — The light maintenance
company is organic within the infantry division. This company
has been set up to perform approximately 30 percent of the third
echelon maintenance for the division during combat, and up to
60 percent at other times depending on the mobility of the Situa-
tion. It gives close support to the troops of the division.
12
OKDNANCE SEKVICE IN THE I*IEIJ>
6. Headquarters and headquarters company, maintenance bat-
talion, armored division (T/O 9-66). — This is the company of the
ordnance maintenance battalion, armored division (T/O 0-65),
in which is located the headquarters of the battalion and the
office of the division ordnance officer. This company carries
heavy stocks of spare parts and functions as a base operating
point for the other companies of the battalion.
c. Company, maintenance battalion, armored division (T/O
0-67). — This company performs third echelon maintenance nnd
supply for the armored division. There are three of these com-
panies in each ordnance maintenance battalion, armored division.
They enable the division to be self-sufficient in third echelon
maintenance for a short period.
A. Airborne ordnance maintenance company (T/O 9-87). —
This company is organically assigned to the airborne division nnd
performs third echelon maintenance of the ordnance materiel
of the division.
e. Ordnance maintenance company, mountain division (T/O
9-137). — This company is organically assigned to the moun-
tain division and performs third echelon maintenance of the ord-
nance materiel of the division.
f. Ordnance maintenance company, engineer special brigade
(T/O 0-07S). — This company is organic within the engineer
special brigade. It performs third echelon maintenance of
ordnance materiel for the brigade.
g. Ordnance medium maintenance company (T/O 9-7). — This
company performs third echelon maintenance of small arms,
artillery, fire-control equipment, general purpose vehicles, and,
if specially trained, for tank-destroyer equipment. It is normally
assigned under the ordnance hattalion headquarters (T/O 9-76),
and is assigned to army or theater. It may be attached to corps
under battalion control if necessary, and it is organic within the
cavalry division.
ft. Ordnance medium automotive maintenance company (T/O
0-127). — This company handles third echelon maintenance of
general purpose vehicles, scout cars, half-track cars, and small
arms. It is normally assigned to battalions In the army area
as required, and may be attached to lower headquarters and
commands (AA, etc.) if necessary.
13
BASIC FIELD MANUAL,
i. Ordnance antiaircraft maintenance company (T/O-217). —
This company performs third echelon maintenance of antiair-
craft guns, fire-control equipment, and to a limited extent, on
vehicles. It Is assigned to maintenance battalions under army
or similar headquarters, normally on the basis of one per five
antiaircraft battalions. It may be assigned to headquarters
of large antiaircraft concentrations augmented by medium or
heavy automotive maintenance companies, or subdivisions may
be attached to other maintenance units when antiaircraft dis-
persion precludes the use of a full company in any one area.
j. Ordnance heavy maintenance company, field army (T/O
9-9). — As the name implies, this company is equipped to handle
heavier maintenance loads than the medium maintenance com-
pany. It is normally assigned to battalions in the army area for
the performance of fourth echelon maintenance within its capa-
bilities, of the ordnance materiel evacuated from the forward
echelons. It is also frequently assigned to communications zone
establishments.
k. Ordnance heavy automotive maintenance company (T/O
9-197). — This company is assigned to ordnance battalions under
army or theater control as required. It performs fourth echelon
maintenance oti general purpose vehicles, scout cars, half-track
cars, and small arms.
I. Ordnance company, heavy/ maintenance (tank) (T/O
9-37). — This company performs fourth echelon maintenance for
all ordnance equipment of armored units, with special emphasis
on tanks. It is also capable of fourth echelon maintenance on
other vehicles. It is assigned to maintenance battalions under
army control as required. It may also be attached to armored
forces, corps, or tank groups if necessary.
m. Ordnance maintenance company, railway artillery (T/O
9-47). — This company is normally assigned to theater reserve on
the basis of one per regiment of railway artillery. It is equipped
to handle all normal maintenance problems encountered with
such regiments. Platoons of this company are equipped to oper-
ate separately.
n. Ordnance evacuation company (T/O 9-187). — This company
is assigned to theater or army headquarters. Its normal mission
is the transportation forward, and the evacuation to tie rear, of
14
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
armored vehicles and other heavy equipment. It should be as-
signed on the basis of one company per approximately 250 tank-
type vehicles in the theater.
o. Ordnance ammunition company (T/O 9-17). — This company
is normally grouped in the ordnance ammunition battalion
(T/O 9-15). It is assigned to armies, air forces, theater reserve,
and communications zone installations. It operates ammunition
depots and ASP's. The usual basis for the assignment of this
company is one per 500 tons of ammunition handled per day.
p. Ordnance depot company (T/O 9-57). — Each of these com-
panies is equipped to handle all types of ordnance supply, includ-
ing automotive, small arms, etc. It operates the ordnance gen-
eral supply depots. It is normally assigned under a battalion
headquarters with other depot companies and/or maintenance
companies under army ordnance control.
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] (C 1, 21 Aug 43.)
■ 37.1. Ordnance Battalions. — a. Headquarters and head-
quarters detachment, ordnance battalion (T/O 9-76). — When-
ever two or more ordnance companies, except ammunition or
base armament or automotive, are operating in any one area,
they will be grouped into battalions under this headquarters for
control and direction. It furnishes the necessary personnel for
the administration and control of two to five companies. In
order to maintain the highest flexibility for ordnance service, no
type battalions in this category are specified. These battalions
are assigned throughout the theater of operations as required.
In the combat zone, all battalions except divisional maintenance
battalions, are normally under the control of the army ordnance
officer. However, they may be attached to corps or comparable
headquarters if necessary.
6. Ordnance ammunition oattalion (T/O 9-15). — There are
normally, two of these battalions per field army. They are also
assigned to the communications zone as required. Eaeh bat-
talion includes from two to six ammunition companies.
c. Maintenance battalion, armored division (T/O 9-65). — This
battalion is assigned organically to the armored division. It
operates under tiie control of the division ordnance officer, in
direct support of the combat elements of the division. It con-
sists of a headquarters and service company (T/O 9-68), and
15
BASIC FIELD MANUAL
three maintenance companies (T/O &-4J7). This battullon en-
ables the armored division to be self-sufficient in third echelon
maintenance for a short period.
[A. G. 300.7 (7 May 43).] (C 1, 21 Aug43.)
By order of the Secbetaby of Wae :
G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Staff.
Official :
J. A. ULIO,
Major General,
The Adjutant General.
16
g, S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OfriCt! 1*4*
FM 9-5
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE
IN THE FIELD
UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
WASHINGTON i 1942
For sale by the Superintendent of Documents. Washington, D. C.
WAR DEPARTMENT,
Washington, July 11, 1942.
FM 9-5, Ordnance. Field Manual, Ordnance Service in the
Field, is published for the information and guidance of all
Concerned. It is based on FM 100-10, Field Service Regula-
tions. FM 101-5, The Staff and Combat Orders, FM 101-10,
Organization, Technical and Logistical Data, and the recog-
nized concepts of modern ordnance service in the field.
The primary intent of this manual is to provide a ready
reference for ordnance officers, covering the general prin-
ciples which govern the operation of all ordnance service in
the field. The details pertaining to particular aspects of
field service are treated more completely in other field man-
uals published by the Ordnance Department and the various
arms and services,
| A. G. 062. 11 (4r-22-42).|
By order of the Secretary or War:
G. C. MARSHALL,
Chief of Staff.
Official :
J. A. ULIO,
Major General,
The Adjutant General.
Distribution:
RandH (2); Bn 1-7, 17 (2); Bn and L9 (10).
(For explanation of symbols see FM 2 1-6 J
n
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Paragraphs Page
Chapter 1. General 1-3 i
Chapter 2. Ordnance staff officer ._ 4-10 5
Chapter 3. Supply.
Section I. General 11-16 12
11. Ammunition supply . 19-27 19
Chapter 4. Maintenance 28-31 31
Chapter 5. Ordnance troop units.
Section I. General 33-34 33
II. With Army Ground Forces 36-37 35
III. With Army Air Forces 38-40 37
Chapters. Ordnance Service in the theater of op-
erations.
Section I. General 41-48 40
II. Communication zone 47-52 43
m. Regulating station 53-56 52
IV. Combat zone 57 53
Chapter 7. Ordnance service in the combat zone.
Section I. In the army 58-63 55
II. In the corps 84-71 64
in. In the division 72-84 63
Chapters. Ordnance service in the Army Air
Forces.
Section' I. General 85-91 77
II. In an air force 92-94 S3
III. In an air base area 95-99 87
IV. At a dispersed airdrome 100-101 88
V. Air service command 102-108 89
Chapter 9. Basic data ^ 107-rlll 83
Appendix I. Check list for ordnance plans 96
II. Publications applicable to ordnance activities.. 99
III. Ordnance troop assignments 102
Index 105
in
FM 9-5
ORDNANCE FIELD MANUAL
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
(This pamphlet supersedes FM 9-5, October 18, 1939, Including
Training Circular No. 42, War Department 1941.)
CHAPTER, 1
GENERAL
■ 1. Mission and Responsibilities. — a. Mission. — The mission
of the Ordnance Department in the field is to store and issue
ordnance general supplies and ammunition; to inspect, re-
pair, alter, and maintain ordnance materiel in the hands of
troops and in storage; to administer the field establishments;
and to provide technical information and guidance.
b. Responsibility. — The responsibility of the Ordnance
Department includes:
(1) Supply of ordnance general supplies to unit' supply
officers.
(2) Supply of ammunition up to the point of issue to the
troops, except in the case of air force units for which service
is provided up to the airplane,
(3) Inspection of ordnance materiel issued to troops, and
maintenance of this materiel when such maintenance is be-
yond the capabilities of the facilities and personnel available
in the units themselves.
(4) Collection and dissemination of technical information.
(5) Reception and reclamation of captured or abandoned
materiel, general supplies, and ammunition. Enemy resources
should be exploited to the fullest extent.
(6) Destruction of ammunition when required. This in-
cludes the destruction or removal of duds or delayed action
ammunition.
(7) Cooperation with the . Chemical Warfare Service in
obtaining samples of the chemical filler of any enemy chemical
ammunition for analysis.
■ 2. Organization or Ordnance Service. — a. General. — The
organization of ordnance service embraces the establishments.
1
2-3
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
facilities, and troop units available to the Ordnance Depart-
ment for carrying out its field mission. The echelons of ord-
nance service are organized in conformity with both the
geographical and tactical organization of the Army of the
United States. The relationships of the various elements of
ordnance service within the geographical subdi'/isions and
tactical echelons of the field forces, and of the ordnance
officers controlling them, are illustrated in figure 1.
/b. t GepgraphicaJ. organization of the army. — There are
t^fo major geographical areas which come into existence
by War Department designation of the theater of war on
the outbreak of hostilities; these are the theater of oper-
ations and the zone of the interior. ^The theater of war
comprises those areas of land and sea Which are or may
become involved directly in the operations of w"ar. The
zone of the interior in general comprises the area of the
national territory exclusive of the theater of operations.
The actual areas of operations within the theater of war
are denominated theaters of operations. The areas com-
prising the theaters of operations are designated by the
War Department. There may be one or more theaters of
operations. A theater of operations is further subdivided
into the communications zone and the combat zone. The
communications zone is that part of the theater of oper-
ations containing the lines of communication, the estab-
lishments of supply and evacuation, and other agencies
required for the immediate support and maintenance of
the field forces in the theaters of operations. The combat
zone comprises that part of the theater of operations re-
quired for the active operation of the combatant forces.
^c^Xact?cat-orga7tfeat?Q,7t of the Army. — The tactical or-
ganization of the Army consists of the Ajprny Ground Forces,
the Army Air Forces, the Services of Supply, and 1h& theaters
of operations.
■ 3. Ordnance Service nr the Zone ov the Intehioh. — a.
Mission. — The mission of the ordnance department in the
zone of the interior is the design, development, procurement,
storage and issue of ordnance materiel adequate in both
quality and quantity to meet the needs of the Seld forces,
2
Fhsuhe 1 . — Relationship of ordnance staff officers.
3
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
the provision of an uninterrupted flow of this materiel into
the hands of troops, and the provision of adequate facilities
for the repair of that materiel evacuated to the Zone of
the interior.
b. Facilities. — The ordnance facilities available for the
accomplishment of the ordnance service mission within the
zone of the interior in the United States only, comprise
those establishments under the direct control of the Chief
of Ordnance together with agencies under the immediate
supervision of corps area ordnance officer^} The major
ordnance supporting facilities are those' establishments
under the direct control of the Chief of Ordnance. These
comprise the manufacturing arsenals, procurement dis-
tricts, proving grounds, loading plants, training centers,
and field service depots: Ordnance officers at posts, camps,
and stations operate directly under the,control of the com-
manding officers of such commands. j Io_ technical matters,
however, they operate in close cooperation with the respec-
tive corps area ordnance officers, who as representatives of
the corps area commander are responsible for the coor-
dination of all ordnance service in the corps area.
4
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
4
CHAPTER 2
ORDNANCE STAFF OFFICER
■ 4. Ordnance Staff Officers. — a. Organisation o) staff. —
The existence of stalls arises from the necessity for providing
the commander of a military unit with certain specially
trained officers to assist him in the exercise of his command.
This assistance comprises the handling of the manifold de-
tails associated with the continuing and complete knowledge
which must be furnished the commander in all matters bear-
ing on his command decisions. In order to accomplish this
mission, staff work is functionally subdivided into four dis-
tinct categories: personnel, military intelligence, operations
and training, and supply and evacuation. In units of a divi-
sion or larger it becomes necessary to vest these four func-
tions in a general staff and, in addition, to supplement this
staff with a special staff. The special staff comprises those
officers of the various arms and services who may be assigned
to a headquarters for technical, supply, and administrative
purposes. The special staff operates with the general staff
under the policies prescribed by the unit commander. The
duties of the individual members of the special staff will be
concerned with particular aspects of one or more of the four
general staff functions. The importance to the commander
and his staff of expert assistance in ordnance matters makes
it imperative that an ord nance o fficer be a member of each
special staff constitutedL^For complete information on gen-j
eral and special staff matters, reference should be made to
the appropriate sections of FM 100-5, 100-10, and 101-5.
b. Prescribed duties. — As the senior ordnance member of
the special staff, an ordnance staff officer has the following
prescribed duties and responsibilities:
(1) Command of ordnance troops not assigned or attached
to subordinate units.
(2) Adviser to the commander and the staff in ordnance
matters. This applies particularly to ordnance technical
5
4-5
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
problems and recommendations as to plans for ordnance
activities.
(3) Supply of ammunition up to the point of issue to unit
trains except in the case of air force units for which service
is provided up to the airplane. He should anticipate require-
ments of the unit and cause to be maintained accurate
records as to the status of ammunition and ordnance
supplies.
<4) Operation of ordnance storage, maintenance, and
repair facilities, Including salvage and repair of ordnance
materiel, whether friendly or enemy in origin. The search
of battlefield areas for abandoned ordnance materiel is a
responsibility of the Quartermaster Corps. (See FM 100-
10.) However, the Ordnance Department is responsible for
technical advice on ordnance materiel at the quartermaster
salvage collecting point; for reclamation of ordnance unit
assemblies and component parts; and for the repair and
reissue of ordnance major items collected by the Quarter-
master Corps. Furthermore, ordnance maintenance per-
sonnel must salvage usable ordnance materiel whenever it is
encountered by them or reported to them.
(5) Technical inspection of ordnance equipment.
(6) Supervision, within limits prescribed by his com-
mander, of ordnance activities in subordinate units.
(7) The collection of information concerning ordnance
materiel, that used by our troops and that used by the enemy.
(For a discussion of the general functions of a staff officer
see FM 101-5.)
(8) The supplementing of our own materiel with captured
materiel. This includes not only the assembling for issue to
our own troops of captured guns and tanks, but also the
supply to such troops of appropriate ammunition, the proper
disposition of necessary spare parts, and the proper disposi-
tion of information essential to the maintenance of such
materiel.
■ 5. Miscellaneous Duties and Responsibilities. — a. Dia-
ries. — Ordnance staff officers will keep diaries of important
events affecting ordnance service. These will include such
items as statistical data, operations and procedure, etc.
6
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
5-6
Diaries properly and carefully maintained constitute inval-
uable sources of information for future reference.
b. Protective -planning. — Ordnance staff officers will pre-
pare plans to guard against ordnance stores falling into
enemy hands. Such plans will provide for evacuation and
for destruction if evacuation is impracticable. Actual de-
struction will not be carried out without orders from the
commander responsible for the stores unless communication
with the commander is impossible. For a more complete dis-
cussion of organizations for supply, reserve supplies, number
and location of supply points, influence of tactical operations,
and movement of supply points see FM 100-10.
c. Safeguarding of information. — Ordnance staff officers
will carefully safeguard information which might be useful
to the enemy, such as composition and location of tactical
units and their supply establishments. They will warn all
subordinate personnel that the result of negligence in this
respect may have far reaching effects on operations and on
the lives of their comrades.
d. Technical functions. — Ordnance staff officers should
know the capabilities and limits of all ordnance materiel in
their commands. They should be qualified to give the salient
ordnance characteristics of all newly approved or experimen-
tal ordnance major items. /^The'y should also be conversant''
with serviceability requirements for ammunition, disposal or
demolition of duds or other unserviceable ammunition, and
the provisions of TM 9-1900. They should be able to instruct
using troops in maintenance and operation of ordnance ma-
teriel. In general, they should know every aspect of ordnance
materiel including how it is employed tactically.
e. Inspections. — They should keep advised of the status of
the maintenance and supply of ordnance materiel in their
units by means of frequent personal visits.
■ 6. Channels or Communication. — There are two recognized
channels of communication between military commands;
these are "command" and "technical" channels. Communi-
cations within the command channel are either signed by the
commander or authenticated by a general staff officer or
adjutant general. In order to keep this channel free from
the many details of administration which are handled by
7
6-7
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
special staff officers, the technical channel is employed. In
the technical channel correspondence is sent from the special
staff officer representing a service at one headquarters to
the special staff officer representing the same service at an-
other headquarters. Matter contained in correspondence
within the technical channel should not require the action
of any other staff officers of either command. It should be
confined to normal technical operations of the service which
the special staff officer represents and to such information
and reports as have been authorized by the higher com-
manders. Nothing that requires the announcement of a new
policy or a variation from prescribed methods will be handled
through the technical channels.
■ 7. Relations With Other Arms and Services.— a. Respon-
sibility. — Primary responsibility for proper ordnance service
to the units rests with the commander. The unit ordnance
officer is ordinarily called upon for advice with respect to
the ordnance requirements during the preparation of the
commander's plan in any situation and should at all times
be prepared to submit a complete ordnance plan; the actual
execution of such a plan when approved is the responsibility
of the unit ordnance officer.
b. Scope of initiative. — The ordnance staff officer is given
a mission in the form of approved plans and administrative
orders. Within the scope of these plans and orders and
within the limits of the resources at his disposal he has
complete initiative in insuring the best possible performance
of his mission. Matters concerning routine and technical
details are usually handled through personal conference with
the ordnance staff officers of the next higher or lower echelon.
Each unit ordnance officer is concerned that his superiors
are fully informed through proper channels of the ordnance
situation of his unit.
c. Cooperation. — Cooperation within the special staff is
necessary to proper staff team play, and staff team play is
necessary to successful execution of the commander's plans,
includfng the ordnance plan. The use of tact and the main-
tenance of cordial relations between special staff officers
promotes cooperation.
8
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
7-9
d. Supervision. — An ordnance officer furnishes great assist-
ance to his unit by the supervision exercised over ordnance
activities in lower echelons, particularly in combat units
where ordnance personnel are not present. Such supervision
is exercised by means of direct dealing with the unit com-
mander arranged through command channels.
■ 8. Relation Between Ordnance Plans, Operations, and
Inspections. — In order to carry out approved ordnance plans
and administrative orders, the ordnance staff officer must
avail himself of all ordnance troops. The approved plan
contains the necessary arrangements for labor and trans-
portation which the ordnance staff officer will require in
carrying out his operations. In this connection each ordnance
staff officer has two distinct functions; planning and opera-
tions. Both must be performed simultaneously. While one
plan is being carried out, others must be in the process of
preparation. His primary role should be that of the planner.
While he should supervise the execution of his plans by units
placed under his control for the purpose, he should delegate
actual operations to subordinates. The importance of inspec-
tions is emphasized by this consideration. Not only should
the ordnance staff officer inspect to determine a basis for
his planning, but also to note the manner of execution of
his plans.
■ 9. Ordnance Plans. — a. Basis. — The proper anticipation
of the ordnance needs of his unit is the function of every
ordnance staff officer. Proper planning will produce a con-
tinuous ordnance service. If planning is absent, service will
be intermittently good and bad. Proper planning is based
on the full knowledge of the intentions of the commander.
b. Form. — There Is no prescribed form for ordnance plans.
Only a limited part of the plan is published to the command
in administrative orders. The remainder of the plan con-
tains Information necessary to G-4 for the proper coordina-
tion of the ordnance plans with those of other services. The
plan as approved constitutes the commander's decision and
is a directive to the ordnance officer. See check list in
appendix I.
9
9-10
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
C. Preparation. — In preparing an ordnance plan, the ord-
nance staff officer will usually divide it into a plan for —
(1) Employment of ordnance troops.
(2) Ordnance maintenance.
(3) Class n (general) supplies.
(4) Class V supplies (ammunition).
(5) Reclamation of captured materiel.
(6) Other aspects of ordnance service such as the dis-
position of ordnance stores either by evacuation or destruc-
tion when such action becomes necessary to prevent those
stores from falling into the hands of the enemy. (This mat-
ter involves consideration of stoefcages at particular times
and places, the influence of tactical situations, and other
matters discussed in PM 100-10. See also par. 5ft.)
d. Arrangement. — When submitting an ordnance plan to
G-4, the ordnance staff officer will usually arrange it Into
three parts:
(1) Information to be published in the administrative
order.
(2) Recommendations concerning operations which require
coordination and approval by G-4.
(3) Detailed information for the use of ordnance personnel
in the unit.
■ 10. Ordnance Inspection. — a. Purpose. — By means of in-
spections of ordnance equipment, the ordnance staff officer
acquires much of the necessary knowledge which will enable
him to carry out his mission. The purpose of the inspection
is to discover the difficulties of the combat troops and to in-
crease their combat efficiency by remedying these diffi-
culties.
b. In combat. — During combat, inspections by ordnance
representatives are a continuing operation. Every effort is
made to determine before the actual need arises, the repairs
and supplies which a combat unit will require. The sup-
plies and repair facilities are pushed forward with the in-
specting parties to enable the prompt filling of ;.ieeds when
they have been determined.
C. Formal inspections. — Prior and subsequent to combat,
thorough formal inspections are made of ordnance equip-
10
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
10
ment in all units to determine supplies and repairs required.
Repairs as far as can be made at the unit bivouac are effected
at the time of inspection. Unserviceable materiel which
cannot be repaired by the inspecting party is withdrawn, and
either replaced immediately or arrangements for its replace-
ment made. (See par. 3 Id.) Lists of shortages as well as
lists of repair work to be performed by the unit are prepared
and turned over in a report, usually formal, to the unit
commander.
d. Arrangements prior to inspection. — The authority to
inspect must be used solely for the purpose of giving more
complete and efficient service to the arms. It must always be
arranged through the command channel. Ordnance inspect-
ing parties will not inspect units of any command without
previously reporting to all commanders concerned, displaying
their authority therefor, and asking the cooperation of the
commanders.
e. Inspection reports. — The completeness of the inspection
report will depend upon the purpose of the inspection and
the conditions under which it is made. Whenever practica-
ble, it is desirable that the result of a periodic inspection be
recorded on a form so designed as to indicate clearly the
defect found in each item of equipment, those corrected by
ordnance personnel, those to be corrected by the organiza-
tion personnel, other action required, the date of the. in-
spection, and the name of the inspector. A complete dis-
cussion of the details pertaining to the conduct of inspections
will be found in PM 9-10.
11
11
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
CHAPTER 3
SUPPLY
Section I. General
II. Ammunition supply.
Paragraphs
11-18
19-27
SECTION I
GENERAL
■ 11. General Principles op Supply. — The principles gov-
erning supply may be considered in two ways: those which
are intrinsically applicable to the supplies themselves; and
those which aTre essential to whatever system is esrablished to
meet the supply problem.
a. Principles applicable to supplies. — In the first of these
classifications the following doctrines are fundamental:
(1) Supplies must be continuously adequate to the needs
of the field forces.
(2) Supplies must be sufficiently mobile to reach the using
troops at the moment and in the amount needed.
(3) In order that their mobility may be assured, troops
must not be encumbered with a greater quantity of supplies
and impedimenta than is absolutely. necessary to insure their
constant readiness for immediate action. Combat troops
must not have their attention diverted, by anxiety over supply
details, from their principal mission of defeating the enemy.
(4) Conservation in the use of supplies must tie practiced
by all echelons. Accordingly, troops must not be allowed to
accumulate an unauthorised excess of supplies.
(5) All resources of the theater of operations must be
thoroughly exploited. With reference to supplies, this means
that full advantage should be taken of all supplies available
Within the theater and susceptible of conversion zo practical
military use. Each ordnance staff officer is responsible that
enemy resources and materiel are exploited in the area which
is within the commander's jurisdiction.
(6) Future requirements must be anticipated. This can
only be accomplished by the Intelligent compilation and in-
12
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
11
terpretation of supply data, and the establishment of tables
of consumption rates based thereon.
(7) Reserve supplies must be echeloned in width and depth
in order that supplies may be made available when and where
needed.
(8) Unit reserves of supplies should be replenished as soon
as possible in order to be available in an emergency.
(9) Supplies must be adequately safeguarded against loss
from any cause, including enemy action (see par. 5&) .
b. Principles essential to supply system. — Under the second
classification the following principles are essential:
(1) Simplicity. — The simpler the operational details, the
less likelihood of mistakes, and the greater the probability of
success of the system.
(2) Flexibility. — Flexibility is essential to a supply system
in order that it may conform readily to the requirements of
the tactical or strategic situation. The attainment of this
quality in practice depends upon decentralization of opera-
tions, efficient administrative control, and intelligent employ-
ment of the supply facilities available.
(3) Elasticity. — It is entirely possible that the system may
be called upon at any time to expand or contract to meet Un-
foreseeable conditions. In order to provide for this, adequate
planning must be made for the expansion and contraction of
stock levels, the facilities for handling supplies, and tlie
manipulation of the supplies to conform to whatever strategic
or tactical plan is put into operation. (See PM 100-10.)
(4) Mobility. — Supplies in storage are a potential asset
only; until such supplies are given the requisite mobility,
they do not become a real asset. Mobility is achieved by
proper echelonment, location of installations on or near
good transportation nets, and the maintenance of sufficient
transport and labor to assure that supplies can be moved
where and when needed with the minimum of delay.
(5) Continuity. — Supply must be continuous. Such a con-
dition will be the result of a well integrated organization
of the entire supply system. In the maintenance of a smooth,
uninterrupted flow, reserves of supply are essential. Reserves
safeguard continuity during periods of irregularity.
467778° — 42 2
13
11-14
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
(6) Forward movement. — The impetus of supply must be
from the rear. This implies that it is the duty of each higher
commander to push supplies forward within reach of his
subordinate commander. However there is the concurrent
responsibility of each subordinate commander to make known
his requirements to higher authority and to make the neces-
sary arrangements for drawing and distributing supplies
allocated to him. Requirements should be made known in
sufficient time to permit forwarding of supplies by normal
methods. In practice, a liaison (contact) party between rear
and forward echelons is recommended in addition to the
regular requisitions to facilitate actual delivery,
■ 12. Factors Affecting Stock Levels. — Stocks of ordnance
general supply carried in the various echelons of supply will
be determined by —
a. Types and quantities of ordnance materiel in the hands
of troops,
b. Amount of transportation available to the supply agency.
c. Type of the echelon and its position in the chain of
supply.
d. Type of terrain and climatic conditions,
e. .Type of action contemplated.
/. Degree of supply support including the expected time
lag of resupply. , t . ^
■ 13^^&lriitEijteNTs.— Requirements for ^tatr theaters of oper-
ation's usually incorporated in the plans of the War
Department^ After operations begin, these are checked by
the theater commander and resubmitted with proper recom-
mendations, through commanding generals, Army Ground
Forces and ArmjrWUr Forces, to the War Department for
approval. The finals requirement on which issu£s are made
from the zone of the interior to the theater of operations usu-
ally takes the form of^schedules of priorities. Within the
theater of operations, supply services must insure the timely
anticipation of requirements by careful planning and early
submission of requisitions. \
■ 14. Local Procurement. — Although the bulk of supplies re-
quired in the theater of operations is obtained from the zone
14
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
14-16
of the interior, as many of these supplies as practicable under
War Department policy should be procured from local sources.
The fullest use must be made of salvaged materiel. The
quartermaster salvage service is responsible for the evacua-
tion of abandoned ordnance stores from the battlefield and
bivouac areas. (See FM 100-10.) Ordnance troops will re-
cover from the salvage service in their respective echelons
such serviceable weapons as are required and available. The
principles of mobility and simplicity of supply are best ap-
plied when minimum transportation facilities are utilized in
delivering supplies to the theater of operations.
■ 15. Classification of Supplies. — a. Classes of supplies. —
All supplies issued to the field forces fall into one of the five
classifications established by FM 100-10^. These classes,"
which are designed to facilitate control and issue of supplies"
to the field forces, are as follows:
(1) Class I. — Those articles which are consumed at an ap-
proximately uniform daily rate irrespective of combat opera-
tions or terrain and which do not necessitate special adapta-
tion to meet individual requirements, such as rations and
forage. ^ _ ^
^K^Class II. — Thosfr-authdrized supplies for which allow-
ances are ^established by Tables of Basic Allowances, and
Tables of Allowances, such as -clothing, gas masks, arms,
automotive vehicles, radio sets, tools, and instruments.
(3) Class ///. — Engine fuel and lubricants, including gaso-
line for vehicles and aircraft, diesel oil, fuel oil, and coal.
(^ Class IV. — Those articles of supplies which are not
cove reifin, Tables of Basic Allowances and demands for which".'
are directly related 'ttroperations contemplated or in progress*"
(except for articles in classes in arid VT, such as fortification
materials, construction materials, and machinery.
(5) Ctass V. — Ammunition, pyrotechnics, antitank mines,
chemical and demolition explosives.
t>. Ordnance supplies. — Ordnance supplies are Included
normally in classes n and V,
c. Reference. — For other definitions of supply see FM
100-10.
■ 16. Flow of Supplies. — a. Origin. — The initiation of the
flow of ordnance supplies and munitions occurs within the
15
16-17
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
zone of the interior. Prom the point of initial reception in the
zone of the interior to the place of ultimate issue to troops this
material passes through several channels in its flow forward.
In the zone of the interior this flow is directed by the Chief
of Ordnance in accordance with established priorities and
policies of the War Department. He is entirely responsible
for the sufficiency and maintenance of this flow. As this
material passes into the theaters of operations, the responsi-
bility for its control passes from the Chief of Ordnance to
the commander of the field forces, who exercises ~Jtas control
through ordnance staff officers.
b. Subsidiary channels of flow. — There will be tributaries
to the main channel of flow just discussed. Ordnance materiel
issued to units as initial equipment will accompany these
units and individuals into the theaters of operations. Another
subsidiary channel of flow, which will be utilized to augment
the main channel of flow within the theater of operations,
will originate with those materials secured by exploitation
of the resources of the theaters of operations.
c. Maintenance of stock levels. — The stocks required to
insure adequacy of supply during periods of interruption of
the flow of supplies are maintained at the general depots or
ordnance depots of the communications zone. From the base
depots, ordnance supplies are forwarded to intermediate and
advanced depots. These latter depots maintain balanced
stocks and stock levels sufficient to provide adequate stocks
immediately available for issue to the combat zone. The
forward flow from base to intermediate or advanced depots
will be In quantities sufficient to maintain these stock levels.
Items of ordnance supplies procured locally or obtained by
the repair or reconditioning of unserviceable supplies are
made available for issue through the ordnance depots and
other supply facilities.
■ 17. Transportation op Supplies. — a. Demands upon trans-
portation facilities. — The enormous volume of supplies of all
categories required by modern armies and the time and space
factors which are associated with the provisions of these sup-
plies to the field forces, impose formidable demands upon all
available transportation.
16
REQUISITIONS
REGULATING
STATION
ORD. OFF.
DIVISION
TROOPS
NORMAL REQUESTS
X— X IMPORTANT AND
VITAL REQUESTS
„__ COPY OF REQUISI-
TION
ZOHE
OF
INTERIOR
COMMUNICATIONS
ZONE
DEPOT
AIR
FORCES
REGULATING
STATION
ARMY
ORDNANCE
OFFICER
ARMY
FIELD SHOPS
NORMAL SUPPLY
SPECIAL SUPPLY (TO
UNITS)
COPIES OF SHIPPING
ORDERS
Figure 2. — Plow charts for general supplies.
17
17-18
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
(1) Transportation for supplies from the zone of the inte-
rior to the theater of operations is furnished in accordance
with priorities recommended by the theater commander and
prescribed by the War Department.
(2) Rail movements of supplies between the communica-
tions zone and combat zone Is controlled from a regulating
station designed to maintain regularity of supply and the
smooth movement of supplies to and evacuation from the
combat zone, and to avoid congestion in the forward areas.
In case motor or water transportation is employed instead of,
or to supplement rail transportation, agencies similar to the
regulating station and the railhead are established for each
kind of transportation.
(3) Within the combat zone the transporting of supplies to
the point of delivery to the using troops is accomplished by
transportation made available by G-4 of the army. Beyond
this point the transporting of supplies is the responsibility of
the various unit commanders,
b. Priorities. — The apportionment of transportation be-
tween various supply services is usually made by the i:stablish-
ment of priorities. To insure smooth operation,' these must
be rigidly adhered to in the movement of supplies. It is neces-
sary for all supply services using common transportation to
submit well-considered recommendations for the transporta-
tion required by that particular service in order that proper
priorities may be established. , ' .
■ 18. Ordnance General Supplies (fig. 2).<<^?Ordnance gen-
eral supplies include all ordnance supplies except ammunition.
They are usually made available in the form o:: credits in
designated depots. When credits are established for an army
in communications zone depots, requisitions are made, as
necessary, by the army ordnance officer direct on the proper
depot or through the ordnance officer at the regulating sta-
tion. If sent direct to the communications zone depot, a
copy is sent to the regulating officer. Shipments are made up
at the depots and dispatched through the regulating stations
to the ordnance depot or other designated supply point. Be-
yond this point the supplies are forwarded through the lower
ordnance echelons. However, if large quantities are required,
18
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
18-19
they are obtained from the army depot by approved requisi-
tion. In this case division and corps transportation is sent to
the depot for the desired supplies. If sufficient supplies are
not available to complete the issue, unfilled portions of the
requisitions are extracted t and forwarded for the necessary
action to the next higher echelon in the channel of supply.
Section n
AMMUNITION SUPPLY
■ 19. Definitions of Ammunition Terms. — o. Ammunition
supply point (ASP). — Supply point is a generic term used
to Include depots, railheads, and truckheads. However, -am-
munition supply point, or ASP, has a specific meaning. This
point is the advanced ammunition supply installation from
which the troops draw the major quantities of their am-
munition. Ammunition depots and ASP's are operated by
army personnel. ASP's are normally 8 to 20 miles from the
front line, whereas the army ammunition depots are usually
about 30 miles from the front line. Exact positions will be
governed by the transportation net and the terrain.
I). Groups of ammunition. — flor supply purposes only, am-
munition supplied in the combat zone is divided into groups
as follows:
(1) Artillery ammunition. — Ammunition fired from can-
non of a type manned by artillery , personnel,
(2> Infantry ammunition. — Ammunition used by all arms
and services, except artillery ammunition and ammunition
that can be used only in airplanes.
(3) Aircraft ammunition. — Ammunition fired or dropped
from aircraft. , . . J < , j ( , ■
C£l_Chemical ammunition, — All chfemical ammunition,^
furnished Eo'the^fctfces of the field, except incendiary bombs'
and the type used only Tjy^fchenucal ..troops, is stored and
distributed by the Ordnance Department:
c. Complete round. — The expression "complete round" in-
cludes all the necessary components required to fire a weapon
once.
19
19-20
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
■d. Unit of fire* — The unit of fire is an arbitrary unit of
measure for ammunition supply, representing a specified
number of rounds per weapon. The number of rounds per
weapon varies with the types and calibers of the weapons.
The unit of fire is not synonymous with the term "day of
supply." In general, it represents a balanced expenditure by
the various weapons under conditions of normal action. It
is a term used as a yardstick or a unit of measure for supply
purposes from a tactical point of view. The unit of fire will
be prescribed by a theater commander unless it is. previously
fixed by the War Department.
■ 20. Special Characteristics of Ammunition Supply. — o.
Organisation. — Requirements in ammunition are based on
tactical considerations and are subject to great variation.
Therefore, the ammunition supply system must be so organi-
zed as to meet sudden, unexpected, and urgent demands.
b. Segregation of lots. — As far as possible, ammunition lots
are segregated within each type of ammunition. This ap-
plies throughout the ammunition supply system.
c. Shipments of ammunition. — Shipments of ammunition
must be made to conform with TM 9-1900 and other perti-
nent technical and field manuals to insure their safe trans-
portation. Except where components are specifically requi-
sitioned, all ammunition shipped into the combat zone, either
from the communications zone or from the zone of the in-
terior, will be by complete rounds, plus such additional eom-
*It must be remembered that the complete unit of fire for a largo
unit includes fixed quantities of all types of ammunition for all
types of weapons. It is apparent that a complete unit of fire for
a large unit, as, for example, an infantry division win not normally
be expended in 1 day of fire, nor in any given period of time will
the same percentages of all types of ammunition in th2 unit or fire
be fired by any unit. It Is, therefore, not practicable to make allo-
cations of ammunition below the army in terras of units of fire,
In the initial phases of any operation, when it is necessary to speak,
of ammunition supply, it is perfectly logical to speak of ihe stocks on
hand in divisions, corps, or army in terms of unit of fire; or in plan-
ning for specific operations, it is proper to speak of estimated require-
ments of ammunition for a large unit in terms of unit of fire. It is
not proper, however, after initial allocations have been made, to
make allocations of ammunition for replenishment of stocks in
terms of units of fire. Troops expend ammunition by rounds. They
require replenishment by rounds of specific type. All allocations of
ammunition for replenishment purposes will be made in terms of
rounds of ammunition.
20
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
20
ZONE
OF
INTERIOR
LEGEND
NORMAL FLOW
ALTERNATE PLOW
ASP - AMMUNITION SUPPLY POINT
Ficote 3.— Schematic diagram of an ammunition supply system.
21
20-22
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
ponents as are specifically requisitioned. In these shipments
each vehicle of transportation will be loaded with complete
rounds; however, when separate-loading ammunition is in-
volved, components should be segregated within the vehicle.
■ 21. Plow of Ammunition. — a. Routing. — Ammunition ar-
riving in the theater of operations, other than that brought
by troops to which it has been issued as initial equipment,
normally passes through the communications zone, through
the regulating station, and then direct to the army ammuni-
tion depots and ASP's. In some Instances it may go direct
without physically passing through the regulating station.
Some ammunition will be used in the communications zone
establishments and activities.
6. Transportation. — Normally all movements of ammuni-
tion from the communications zone to the combat zone are
by rail and truck. In emergencies a small amoun t of ammu-
nition may be delivered by cargo aircraft.
c. Establishment of dumps. — When tactical plans require an
accumulation of ammunition forward of ASP's, unit, reserves
or dumps are established by the commanders concerned.
■ 22. Distribution . — a. Command responsibility. — In all
units, the responsibility for the supply of ammunition for the
unit rests with the commanding officer. This responsibility
is discharged by personal action or through staff officers, de-
pending on the size of the unit.
b. Munitions officer. — The ordnance officer is the muni-
tions officer, that is, the special staff member charged with the
administrative tasks of ammunition supply.
c. Factors in distribution. — The provision for, and the dis-
tribution of ammunition to the combat zone, the establish-
ment and operation of army ammunition supply points, the
maintenance of ammunition reserves, and the delivery, using
transportation provided by G-4, of ammunition to the army
ammunition supply points are responsibilities of ordnance
service, The obtaining of ammunition from the ammunition
supply points and the transportation and distribution of am-
munition are responsibilities of the commander cf the com-
bat unit concerned.
22
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
23
■ 23. .Administration. — a. General situations. — Two general
Situations occur in ammunition supply: One is a campaign of
rapid movement; the other is a battle in which movement is
limited for considerable periods of time. The same funda-
mentals apply in both cases, but the procedure will be different.
, (1) Campaign of rapid movement. — (a) In a battle of
rapid movement an organized depot system will be left
behind; communication will become difficult; railheads or
truckheads will be employed; and greater latitude must be
given to ordnance officers at advanced ammunition installa-
tions in the issuing of ammunition. These complications
will be somewhat offset by the smaller expenditures of am-
munition that can be expected when the troops are making
rapid displacements.
(b) In warfare of movement, to provide an adequate
ammunition resupply to the units and, especially, to give
ammunition to those units whose resupply is most im-
portant, requires a directive from each interested headquar-
ters. This directive forms the basis for the actions of
ordnance officers engaged in ammunition service. Though
such a directive cannot anticipate all situations that may
arise, it will be used by ordnance officers at ASP's as a basis
for making any required decisions. Senior ordnance officers
from corps and army staffs and from ordnance ammuni-
tion battalions should be well forward during critical phases
of combat to direct the actions of ammunition companies
and to obtain a proper picture of the ammunition supply
situation.
(2) Stabilized situations. — In stabilized situations ammu-
nition is normally made available in the form of credits at
designated supply points for a stated period of operation.
The initial allocation is made by GHQ. Each commander
in turn reallocates to subordinate commanders. Credits
provide commanders with definite assurance of the sup-
plies reserved for them and expedite supply. Credits are
usually established at designated supply points for a specified
period. At the end of the period named in the allocation,
all credits against which calls have not been received, re-
vert to the supply point or depot stock.
b. Alternatives. — In warfare of movement, credits will not
be the sole method employed in the resupply of ammuni-
23
23-25
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
tlon. A less exact but more rapid procedure will be re-
quired. The commander may prescribe that demands for
ammunition by certain unit commanders will be honored
by specified ammunition supply points within certain
specified limits or without limit; or "he may direct that pre-
scribed percentages of ammunition available at one or more
supply points will be issued to each major unit upon de-
mand. The foregoing constitutes a variation of the normal
credit system.
c. Ammunition reports. — The status of ammunition supply
is determined by periodic reports by combat units and am-
munition supply points, consolidated and forwarded by the
various echelons of command to the theater commander (see
PM 100-10) .
■ 24. Credits. — The credit system is normally used. The
schematic diagram, figure 4, shows the course taken by requests
for credits and the action taken upon such requests (alloca-
tions of credits) . The actions illustrated by this liiagram are
as follows:
a. At the start of operations the plan of the commander
includes the initial issuance of ammunition credits. Subse-
quent credits are made as determined by the tactical situation
and the status of ammunition supply.
ft. Bequests for credits are ordinarily initiated by divisions
or higher units and consolidated in each higher echelon. The
allocation of credits originates at the top and the credits are
then further divided in each lower echelon.
■ 25. Requests for Credits. — When units are not promptly
resupplied with ammunition or credits to meet the needs
indicated by their ammunition reports, they will submit re-
quests for ammunition or credits to higher headquarters as
indicated in figure 4.
a. Division. — In the division, requests for ammunition are
transmitted to the ordnance officer. The ordnance officer
takes action in accordance with the approved plan. If other
action is required he reports the situation to (3-4, with a
recommendation as to the action that should be taken. In
the normal case, such requests are promptly filled from divi-
sion credits in army supply points. In emergencies, the
ammunition will be issued from the division dumps or rolling
24
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
25
Commander
through
members of his
Stall
Commander
through
members oi his
Staff
Commander
through
members of his
Staff
Theater
RO
00
Air Forces
(See lig. 18)
Instructions for obtaining
and distributing
ammunition
Army
Troops
Instructions for obtaining
and distributing
ammunition
Corps | —
Troops
Instructions for obtaining
and distributing
ammunition
J
/
Telegram
Army
00
1
-X
ARMY
Corps
00
CORPS
Division
00
DIVISION
Sep.
Orgr.s,
Legend
Credits, OFM Form 301.
Requests for ammunition.
X Copies of Allocations of Credit, OFM Form 301.
Transportation Orders, OFM Form 302.
S.F. 41-3873
Figure 4.- — Schematic diagram of the flow of allocations and requests
for credits.
25
25-26
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
reserves. To effect these issues the division ordnance officer
gives the unit (or the unit train commander) an order upon
an ASP at which a credit balance exists, or an order upon
the division train or ammunition dump. This order is the
authority for the train commander to draw the ammunition.
The transportation order (OFM Form No. 302) is a convenient
form for this purpose. In emergencies, less formal procedures
may be used, but troops should be trained to obtain ammuni-
tion in a systematic manner to prevent confusion at critical
moments. Before his credits become exhausted the division
ordnance officer requests the corps ordnance officer ior addi-
tional credits. Thus it is apparent that the frequency of
requests for ammunition and ammunition credits depends
upon the rate of expenditure of the ammunition. The re-
quests upon corps may be by telephone, telegraph, radio
(exceptional), or by written message. To avoid errors,
requests should be confirmed in writing.
b. Corps. — Within the corps, requests for ammunition are
submitted to the corps ordnance officer by the division ord-
nance officers and ammunition officers of the troops. As
directed by the corps commander, the corps ordnance officer
will call upon the army ordnance officer for additional
ammunition credits as required.
c. Army. — The army ordnance officer, after considering the
status of ammunition remaining in reserve, will submit the
corps and army troops requests to G-4 with recommendations
as to the appropriate action to be taken. He will prepare
telegrams to the regulating officer for the replenishing of
stocks in the various army depots and ASP's. He will also
make requests upon the theater ordnance officer for additional
credits.
■ 26. Allocations of Credits. — a. Origin of credits. — When
an army enters a combat zone, the theater commander issues
to the army allocations of ammunition credits upon depots
in the communications zone. (The ordnance officer on the
theater commander's staff maintains the records of ammuni-
tion in the zone of communications so as to show the un-
obligated balance in all depots. He prepares and forwards
to the army, to the depots and to the regulating officer con-
26
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
26-27
cerned, the allocation of credits determined by the theater
commander.)
b. Army ordnance officer. — (1) Action on receiving cred-
its. — The ammunition credits allocated to the army are re-
ceived by the army ordnance officer and entered in his records.
Interested general and special staff officers are ' promptly
informed of new credits received. Thereafter, the required
ammunition covered by these credits is ordered forward to
the army depots and ASP's by telegraphing the regulating
officer. The telegram is prepared by the ordnance officer and
signed by G-4.
(2) Basts for allocation. — The army ordnance officer makes
allocation of ammunition credits to corps and to army troops
in accordance with —
' (a) Approved plan.
<b) Special instructions of appropriate members of the
general and special staff.
Cc) Available ammunition. (Credits are never given in
excess of ammunition on hand and unobligated.)
. (3) Transmission of allocations. — The allocations may be
given by telephone, telegraph, or radio (exceptional). -Nor-
mally they are written; if. other methods are used, "written
confirmation should follow. In all cases the depots 'concerned
must be promptly inforrhed of the credits Issued against
their stocks.
c. '.Corps ordnance officer.— When the allocation described
above is received by the corps' ordnance officer,"' the same
procedure outlined in (2) and (3) above is followed,' substi-
tuting corps troops for army troops, and substituting divisions
for corps.
d. Division ordnance officer. — When the division ordnance
officer receives the allocation of ammunition credits from
the corps, he enters them upon his records and promptly
notifies interested general and special staff officers.
■ 27. Ammunition Reports. — a. Purpose. — Ammunition re-
ports serve three purposes:
(1) They inform the commander of the status of ammuni-
tion on hand in the elements of his command.
(2) They provide a basis for the allocation of the ammu-
nition placed to his credit in army depots.
27
27
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
(3) They provide the army ordnance officer with a basis
for resupplying ammunition depots.
b. Routing. — The schematic diagram, figure 5, shows the
course taken by ammunition reports from lower echelons to
higher echelons.
c. Reports from combat troops. — In the division, corps, and
army, all reports from the combat troops are submitted on
OFM Form No. 303. ' For units of branches such as air, artil-
lery, antiaircraft artillery, having a special staff officer on the
staff of the commander, these reports are submitted to the
special staff officer for consolidation and transmission to the
ordnance officer. For all other units, including the infantry
regiments in the division, the reports are submitted directly
to the ordnance officer.
(1) In divisions. — In divisions the ordnance officer prepares
OFM Form No. 304, basing it on —
(a) Reports received front the troops.
(&) His record of allocations, if any are made.
(c) Reserves still on hand in ASP's or other supply points.
The original of this report is sent to the corps ordnance officer.
A copy is sent to division G-4, and one is placed on file in the
division ammunition office. This retained copy will serve
later as part of the basis for the ordnance officer's recom-
mendations to G-4 covering the disposition of ammunition
credits.
■ <2> In corps. — In the corps, the ordnance officer prepares
OFM Form No. 304, basing it on —
(a) Reports received from divisions, from corps troops,
and from special staff officers.
(b) His record of allocations made.
(c) The reserves still on hand in depots and other supply
points.
The original of this report is sent to the army ordnance
officer. A copy is sent to corps G-A, and one is placed on
file in corps ordnance office.
(3) In army. — In the army, the ordnance officer prepares
OFM Form No. 310, basing it upon the reports received from
subordinate units as described above in the case of the corps.
In the case of the army, however, the report of status of stocks
(OFM Form No. 306) shows the unobligated balances in army
28
Air Forces
Misc.
Trps.
OFMForm 303
(See fig. £0)
Air
Units
Air
Off.
A. A.
Units
A. A.
Off.
Art'y
Units
Art'y
Off.
Misc.
Trps.
OFM Form 303
Air
Units
Air
Off.
A. A.
Units
A. A.
Off.
OFM Form 303
*| Art'y
Off.
Art'y
Units
OFM Form 31(^
y ' OFM Form
310 Theater
G-4
O O OFM Form 31^ G _ 4
'» Army
OFM
Form
304
J — r
Art'y
Units
Art'y
Off.
1
»
O.O. OFM Form 304^ q_ 4
Corps
OFM
Form
304
OFM
0.o. °™Z°rm30^ Q _ 4
Division
Form 303
Inf.
Regis.
Sep.
Orgns.
Legend
-Ammunition Reports, OFM Form 303, 304 or 310.
■ Report of Status of Stocks, OFM Form 306.
.Copies of Ammunition Reports
S.F. 41-3875
Figure 5. — Schematic diagram of flow of ammunition reports.
467773° — 42 3 29
27
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
depots and ASP's as submitted by these supply points to the
army ordnance officer. The original of this report (OFM
Form No. 310) is transmitted to the ordnance officer on the
staff of the theater commander. A copy is transmitted to
army G-4, and one is placed in the file of the army ordnance
office. This retained copy will serve later as the basis for
the recommendations which the ordnance officer will be called
upon to submit in connection with the disposition of ammu-
nition credits. For a complete discussion of the details per-
taining to the ammunition supply system, see PM 9-6.
30
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
28-30
CHAPTER 4
MAINTENANCE
■ 28. Purpose. — The purpose of ordnance maintenance Is to
keep ordnance materiel In such condition that it may be
operated at maximum efficiency and that its life is pro-
longed to the utmost. Ordnance maintenance is a function
of both the using arms and services and the Ordnance
Department.
■ 29. Responsibility, — a. Responsible officers. — The mainte-
nance of ordnance materiel is the responsibility of the com-
mander concerned. The duties of ordnance officers in
connection with the -maintenance of ordnance materiel are
based upon their responsibilities as staff officers of the com-
mander and as representatives of the Chief of Ordnance.
b. Scove. — In addition to the performance of normal main-
tenance duties, the maintenance responsibility of the
Ordnance Department Includes —
(1) Inspection and repair of salvaged ordnance materiel,
whether friendly or enemy in origin.
(2) Arrangement for evacuation of ordnance materiel
which is beyond the maintenance capabilities of available
facilities, or which will not be required for reissue.
(3) Conduct of whatever troop schools may be necessary
for instructing the combat units in the proper care and tech-
nical use of their ordnance materiel. t J • ■ -
maintenance may be considered^ under the following
headings:
(1) Ordnance maintenance performed by combat person-
nel (organizational maintenance? 1 ^— - - ' ■' '-.
(2) Ordnance maintenance performed by ordnance person^,
nel in the combat zone (mobile shop maintenance)^"""™ 1
(3) Ordnance maintenance requiring permanent or semi^
permanent shelter and more time (fixed shop maintenancqj\
b. Limiting factors. — Maintenance operations to be ac-
complished under each of the above headings are limited only
by the equipment, skill, parts available, and time required
31
30-31
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
to accomplish the work. Tools and parts are supplied to the
personnel performing maintenance of each of the three
types above in accordance with the work normally expectedj
-1* '• ' •' '
■ 31. Maintenance Principles. — a. Maintenance of ord-
nance materiel beyond the capacity of the using troops will
be performed by the proper ordnance organization.
b. Ordnance service will be carried to the troops through
inspection, the supply of parts, and the exchange of unit
assemblies and major Items which cannot be repaired im-
mediately.
c. Maintenance operations which are a function of ord-
nance organizations will be performed with the least possible
inconvenience to the troops.
d. Each echelon of ordnance service Will support the ac-
tivities of subordinate echelons. Repair work beyond the
capabilities of any echelon will be evacuated to an echelon
capable of performing the work. The evacuation of dam-
aged ordnance materiel from divisions and from corps troops
is discussed in PM 9-10. The governing principle is that
the higher echelon of ordnance service up to and including
the army is responsible for the evacuation of unserviceable
ordnance materiel in the hands of lower echelons. Evacua-
tion from the army to the communications zone is affected
by the regulating officer upon request by the ordnance offi-
cer through G-4 of the army.
e. Unless it is otherwise prescribed by higher authority,
each echelon of ordnance service will establish and main-
tain a basic load of spare parts, unit assemblies, and major
items suitable for' the normal maintenance, during a speci-
fied period of operations, of the organic equipment of the
unit served. This basic load will be revised as experience
dictates. It should be remembered that the basic load con-
stitutes a reserve or pool from which supplies are constantly
being drawn for use, and into which they are constantly
being placed for replenishment.
*'r Normally, arrangements for the evacuation of unserv-
iceable ordnance materiel will be made through ordnance
channels.
For a complete discussion of the operation of ordnance
"maintenance units, see FM 9-10.
32
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD 32-33
CHAPTER 5
ORDNANCE TROOP UNITS
Section I. General
II. With Army Ground Forces
III. With Army Air Forces
Section I
GENERAI
H 32. Types and Mission.— ThPbrdnance troop units which
are normally assigned or attached to tactical organizations
exist solely fo r the purpose of extending ordnance service
to combat troops^|Their mission is to render ordnance
maintenance, supply or technical service and to impart in-
struction in the care, maintenance, adjustment, and function-
ing of ordnance materiel. These troop units are divided,
in accordance with their prescribed missions, into the fol-
lowing types:
Maintenance
Depot
Ammunition
^JUJ?^ 011 ordnance
■ 33. Organization and E^^PMENT.^r: Basis for organiza-
tion. — Since ordnance troop units are organized primarily
to furnish the necessary specialists, tools, and supplies for
the performance of particular missions, it is necessary to
provide a technical organization for the employment of these
means In the accomplishment of each mission. In addition,
these units are military organizations designed to function
In the field, and consequently must be organized along mili-
tary lines for discipline, military .administration, and their
own defense. Details of organization and personnel are
given in the appropriate Table of Organization in the
9-series.
Military organisation. — The military organization of an
""ordnance unit follows in general that of an infantry unit.
Paragraphs
32-34
35-37
38-10
33
33-34
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
A unit headquarters, or headquarters and supply section,
which consists of personnel similar to that prescribed for
the headquarters of an infantry battalion or company, is
provided for military administration. The unit commander
keeps the number of men engaged in military administra-
tion to the minimum, and keeps the maximum number of
men employed in the accomplishment of the mission of the
unit.
Technical organization. — The technical organisation is
established along functional lines. The unit is divided Into
sections, or platoons and sections, each of which is charged
with the supervision and operation of some particular tech-
nical activity.
Equipment. — Organizational and individual equipment
for ordnance units is prescribed in Table of Basic Allowances
No. 9, as supplemented by ordnance SNL, group N.
■ 34. Military Training and Technical Training. — a.
Basis. — In order to carry out its mission, an ordnance unit
must have sufficient military training for its own- military
administration, protection, subsistence, clothing, transporta-
tion, and discipline. The successful technical functioning of
an ordnance unit can be accomplished only after the various
specialists have been properly trained.
b. Basic military training .—The training of the ordnance
soldier will be carried out in accordance with current mobili-
zation training programs ^tS^C Ordinarily, the recruit
will receive his basic military 'framing in replacement train-
ing centers before being assigned to an ordnance unit. When
recruits are assigned to an ordnance unit without having
received this training it is the responsibility of the: organiza-
tion commander to complete the basic military training of
the soldier within the organization in accordance with the
proper MTP.
c. Basic technical training. — Ordinarily, recruits will re-
ceive a certain amount of technical training in the ordnance
replacement training center. It is the responsibility of the
organization commander to see that these soldiers are given,
within the organization, the further technical training and
actual experience which will best fit them for the duties which
they are to perform.
34
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD 34-36
d. Advanced training.— Selected officers and men of the or-
ganization may obtain advanced technical training by being
sent to the ordnance school in accordance with quotas cover-
ing students to be sent from each organization as announced
from time to time in War Department orders^ In addition to
the technical training of the individual specialists, the unit
wilj be trained as a whole for its specific mission,
* *■ tK 4 fX &t Section II ^ ^
WTrH.ARMY GROUND FORCES f") 4 ,
*rs- if I
■(3^»Q^dnance Sections, — a, Ordnance section, infantry di-
vision (T?D-^ T 1) .— This is a small section of officers and en-
listed men assigned to the headquarters of the division for the
purpose of operating>.the division ordnance office, providing
ordnance general supplies-and maintenance, and supervising
ammunition supply. For a derailed discussion of the opera-
tions of this section see FM 9-1^,^
b. Ordnance sections, miscellaneoiis^headquarters, — There
are included in the Tables of Organization of a number of
headquarters, ordnance sections composed of a, small number
of officers and enlisted men. These sections aH^concerned
entirely with staff matters, the exact nature of their duties
depending upon the function of the headquarters of ig?hich
they are a part. For a list of these sections see appendix ill.
■ S&^Ordnance Companies.— -jfoe basic ordnance unit- is the
[orchiancE company. In its organization it follows closely the
basic principles of company organization evident throughout
the military service. The following are type companies;
a. Ordnance company, medium maintenance (T/O 9-7) . —
This is the basic maintenance unit and is normally assigned
to square infantry divisions, cavalry divisions, corps ordnance
maintenance battalions, and the army ordnance maintenance
and supply battalions. It is assigned to combat troops and to
the Army Air Forces on the basis of one per field artillery, or
antiaircraft artillery brigade. Additional companies are also
assigned to theater of operations reserve and to the communi-
cations zone, For a discussion of the operations of mainte-
nance companies see FM 9-10.
b. Ordnance company, heavy maintenance, army (T/O
£MJ), — As the name implies, this maintenance company is
35
36
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
equipped to handle .maintenance of a heavier nature than
that ordinarily performed by the medium maintenance com-
pany. It is organically assigned to the maintenance and
supply battalion of the army, and will frequently operate
installations in the cohimunications zone.
c. Ordnance company, heavy maintenance, tank (T/O '
9-9) . — This company is equipped with substantially the same
equipment as "the medium maintenance company plus addi-
tional special equipment required for the maintenance of
armored units. It is normally assigned to theater of opera-
tions reserve on the basis of one per three separate tank
battalions.
d. Headquarters and headquarters company, maintenance
battalion, armored division (T/O 9-66) . — This is the company
of the ordnance battalion maintenance, armored division, in
which is located the headquarters of the battalion and the
office of the division ordnance officer. This company carries
heavy stocks of spare parts and functions as a base operating
point for the other companies of the battalion.
e. Company, maintenance battalion, armored dimsion (T/O
9-67) . — This company is trained and equipped to support ele-
ments of the armored division. There are thret! of these
companies in each ordnance battalion, maintenance, armored
division.
/. Ordnance company, maintenance, railway artillery (T/O
9-47) . — This company is usually assigned to theater reserve
on the basis of one per regiment of railway artillery. It is
equipped to handle all normal maintenance problems encoun-
tered with such regiments. Platoons of this organization are
equipped to operate Independently.
g. Ordnance company, ammunition (T/O 9-17).— This is
the smallest ammunition unit. It is normally assigned to the
ordnance battalion, ammunition. It is also assigned to air
forces, to theater reserve and to communications zone instal-
lations. It operates ammunition depots and ASP's. The usual
basis for the assignment of these companies is one per 500
tons of ammunition handled per day.
h. Ordnance company, depot (T/O 9-18). — This company
is assigned to the maintenance and supply battalion of the
army, to air forces, to the communications zone, and to
36
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
36-38
theater reserve. It operates ordnance general supply depots,
or ordnance sections of general depots.
i. Ordnance company, service <No T/O). — Ordnance com-
panies, service, are generally composed of station detachments
in a prescribed area. They are normally organized in the
zone of the interior and are commanded by the senior ord-
nance officer okhis representative, on the staff of the area
commander. \ . A .
1/377 Orijn^noe Battalions*— Ordnance 'units assigned to
largXtroop units, such as corps ancCarmy, and mobile units,
such as the armored and motorized divisions, are grouped
together- in battalions under the command of the ordnance
officer of the particular echelon which they are serving. The
following are type battalions:
a, Ordnance battalion, maintenance and supply (T/O
9-115) . — This^battalion is organically assigned to the type
field army. It includes elements necessary to operate the
army general supply depots, and the field shops of the army.
It is designed to provide ordnance service to army troops, and
to support the effort^f the corps maintenance battalions.
b, Ordnance battdttbn, maintenance (T/O 9-75) . — This
battalion is organically assigned to the army corps. It nor-
mally consists of three medium maintenance companies. It
is commanded by the corps ordnance officer.
c. Ordnance battalion, am7nbnition (T/O 9-15). — Two of
these battalions are normally assumed to the type field army.
Each of these battalions includes she ammunition companies.
The battalion operates under the control of the army ordnance
officer.
d. Maintenance battalion, armored divtsipn (T/O 9-65) . —
This battalion is assigned organically to tne^ armored divi-
sion. It operates under the control of the division ordnance
officer, in direct support of the combat elements of the
division.
Section III
WITH ARMY AIR FORCES
■ ^[J-Gemehaik— Ordnance- troops with air forces are divided
into two categories:
37
38-40
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
•a.- Ordnance sections of the headquarters of the various-
echelons.
b. Ordnance companies.
■ .>3Sy Ordnance Section. — Ordnance sections for the per-
formance of special staff functions are found in the head-
quarters of the following:
Army Air Forces
Air force
Air force base command
Bomber command
Interceptor command
Air support command
Air service command
Air corps training center
The officer and enlisted personnel for the staff sections of
the above mentioned commands are included in the Tables
of Organization pertaining to the particular headquarters
and headquarters squadron.
■ 40. Ordnance Companies, Aviation. — Ordnance-service for-
aviation units is performed by ordnance companies, aviation
(air base, bombardment, pursuit, and service) .
(j£s Qrdnance company, air base (T/O 9-167). — Authorized
on the basis of one per air base and one per mobile air
depot groups. In the latter case, the company is organized
less the airdrome and ammunition sections. When the
company is assigned to an air base, the ordnance station
complement is usually attached to this company. The com-
pany consists of the following sections:
(1) Company headquarters. — Performs the usual company
administrative duties.
(2) Ordnance section, air base headquarters. — Provides
personnel for controlling and coordinating ordnance service
in the air base service area. x
(3) Maintenance and general supply section. — This sec-
tion is organized and equipped to establish the refilling point
(RP) for ordnance general supplies and the ordnance
maintenance center for the air base service area. .
(4) Ammunition section. — This section is charged with the
storage, issue, and maintenance of all ammunition in the
38
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE FIELD
40
anVbase ammunition RP. 'When airdrome platoons are not
available, this section performs prescribed delivery service.
(5) Airdrome section. — This section ' consists of three en-
listed men^ The number of sections in a company is de-
pendent orAthe number of units to be served. One such
section is authorized for each observation squadron, trans-
port squadron, and each Army Air Forces headquarters,
except the headquarters squadrons of the air base, bombard-
ment and pursuit groups.
b T/ Ordnance company, aviation, bombardment (T/O
9-157), — Authorized onf the basis of one per bombardment
group. The company is organized and equipped to provide
prescribed ordnance service to a bombardment group and
its related reconnaissance squadron. The company is divided
as follows:
(1) 'Company headquarters.— Performs usual company
administrative duties.
(2) Airdrome section. — Furnishes ordnance service for the
headquarters squadron of the bombardment group.
(3) Airdrome platoon. — There are normally four of these
platoons, one for each bombardment squadron (usually
three) . and one for the related recbnnaissance squadron.
The platoon is organized and equipped\to provide the pre-
scribed ordnance service to a bombarditient or reconnais-
sance squadron, When required it can perform this service
for a single squadron at a dispersed airdrome.
c. Ordnance company, aviation, pursuit (T/O 9-157). —
Authorized on the basis of one to each pursuit group. This
company is organized and equipped on the same principles
as the bombardment company. It consists of a company
headquarters, an airdrome section, and one airdrome pla-
toon for each pursuit squadron (normally three) . When
required, the platoon can provide the prescribed service for
a single squadron at its dispersed airdrome.
39
41-42
ORDNANCE DEPARTMENT
CHAPTER 6
ORDNANCE SERVICE IN THE THEATER OF OPERATIONS
Secttow I. General
II. Communications zone.
in. Regulating station
IV. Combat zone
Paragraphs
41-46
47-52
53-56
57
Section I
GENERAL
B^4lD Mission of Ordnance Department. — The mission of the
Ordnance Department in the theater of operation,'; is the
supply and maintenance of prescribed articles, including gen-
erally all arms, armament, ammunition, tanks, special ord*
nance vehicles, and other equipment and supplies Issued by
the Ordnance Department.
■ 42. General. — a. Theater of operations. — The theater of
operations comprises that area of the theater of war in which
military operations are, or may be, conducted (see fig.
…[truncated]