Document text
TRUCK COMPANIES
WAR DEPAI^TMENT
JULY 1945
0
FM 10-35
c 1
FIELD MANUAL
TRANSPORTATION CORPS TRUCK
COMPANIES
Changes 1 WAR DEPARTMENT
No. 1 I Washington 25, D. C., 12 May 1947
FM 10-35, 13 July 1945, is changed as follows:
The title is changed to read “TRANSPORTA-
TION CORPS TRUCK companies.”
All reference to Quartermaster truck companies,
battalions, or groups will be changed to read Trans-
portation Corps truck companies, battalions, or
groups wherever they occur in the manual.
4. ASSIGNMENT.
^ ^ ^ ^ ii:
d. ASSIGNMENT BY TABLES OF ORGANIZATION.
Rescinded.
13. CONVOY.
^ ^ ^ ^ ^
g. Proper convoy control is essential to * * *
from enemy action.
(1) Traffic systems. Rescinded.
{a) Area control. Rescinded.
(&) Unit or organizational control. Rescinded.
(2) Briefing. Prior to starting * * * from
the column.
^ 4c
[AG 300.6 (2 Apr 47) ]
AGO 2368Di — May 716132° — 47
By ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OE WaE :
DWIGHT D. EISEiraOWER
Chief of Staff
Official ;
EDWARD F. WITSELL
Major General
The Adjutant General
DlSTRlBHTIOlSr :
AAF 4;5) ;-AGF (10) ; T (10) ; T (CofT) (25) ;
Arm & Sv Bd 10 (2) ; Tech Sv (1), except 55
(25) ; Sp Sv Sch 10, 55 (50) ; USMA (10) :
A (2), except ZI (17) ; CHQ (2) ; D (2) ; B
(1) ; T/0 & E: 10-37 (12), 10-57 (12).
For explanation of distribution formula, see
TM 38-405.
AGO 2369D
tf. S. 60VERNMVNT PRINTING OFFICE; 1947
WAR DEPARTMENT FIELD MANUAL
EM 1 0 -S S
This manual supersedes TM 10-lp5, Deceniber 1943
QUARTERMASTER
TRUCK COMPANIES
WAR DEPARTMENT
J U L Y 1-945
United States Government Printinff Office
Washington: 194S
WAR DEPARTMENT
Washington 25, D. C., 13 July 1945
FM 10-35, Quartermaster Truck Companies, is published
for the information and guidance of all concerned.
[.^G 300.7 (11 Sep 44)]
By orper of the Secretary of War:
Official: G. C. Marshall
Chief of Staff
Edward F. Witsell
Major General
Acting The Adjutant General
Distribution:
AAF(5); AGF(IO); ASF(2); T of Opns(lO); T of
Opns(Chief QM)(25); Arm & Sv Bd 10(2); Tech
Sv(l), except 10(25); Sp Sv Sch 10(50); USMA(IO);
Tng C 10(15); A(2); CHQ(2); D(2), except 1(0);
B(l). T/O & E: 10-37(12); 10-57(12); 10-517(6);
10-518(6); Special Distribution.
Refer to FM 21-6 for explanation of distribution formula.
II
CONTENTS
Paragraph Page
CHAPTER I. GENERAL
Section L Introduction.
Purpose and scope of the manual 1 1
II. Quartermaster Truck Company (Troop) or
Quartermaster Troop Transport CompanJK
T/O & E 10-57.
Mission of company 2 2
Functions 3 2
Assignment 4 4
Organization and equipment 5 6
III. Quartermaster Truck Company, Heavy,.T/0
& E 10-37.
Mission of company 6 7
Functions 7 8
Assignment 8 8
Organization and equipment 9 8
CHAPTER 2. PERSONNEL
Commissioned officers . . .’ 10 10
Enlisted personnel . 11 12
Training 12 18
CHAPTER 3. OPERATIONS.
Convoy 13 23
Loads and loading 14 39
Shipment of vehicles . . . . 15 43
Dispatching 16 44
Refueling 17 46
Special operations 18 49
Tractor-trailer operation 19 51
Selection of bivouac area. . . .• 20 53
Security of bivouac area 21 54
III
Paragraph Page
Mines and booby traps 22 58
Weapons 23 59
Demolition 24 59
CHAPTER 4. MAINTENANCE.
Importance of maintenance 25 60
First echelon maintenance 26 60
Second echelon maintenance 27 63
Third echelon 28 69
Maintenance forms and records 29 70
IV
This manual supersedes TM 10~^75, December 1943,
CHAPTER 1
GENERAL
Section I. INTRODUCTION
1. PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE MANUAL, a.
The purpose of this manual is to provide basic information
necessary for the efficient functioning of the quartermaster
truck company. The mission, organization, duties of per-
sonnel, and the operation of the company are carefully de-
scribed. The manual does not include operator’s instructions
or technical data covered in Technical Manuals and other
War Department publications. Throughout the manual ref-
erences are made to .technical publications which provide the
detailed information necessary for the specialists to perform
their functions in the company operation. This manual gives
general directions for the functioning of the company and
serves as a guide to the publications which give the person-
nel of the company specific information on how to carry out
these directions.
b. The manual is applicable to both the Quartermaster
Truck Company (Troop) or Quartermaster Troop Transport
Company, T/0 & E 10-57, and the Quartermaster Truck
Company, Heavy, T/0 & E 10-37. Section II of this chapter
outlines the mission, functions, assignment, organization, and
equiprnent of the Quartermaster Truck Company (Troop)
1
or Quartermaster Troop Transport Company, T/O & £
10-57; section III similarly treats the Quartermaster Truck
Company, Heavy, T/O & E 10-37. Other chapters of the
manual are applicable to both companies.
Section II. QUARTERMASTER TRUCK COMPANY
(TROOP) OR QUARTERMASTER TROOP TRANS-
PORT COMPANY, T/O & E 10-57
2. MISSION OF COMPANY. The Quartermaster Truck
Company (Troop) or Quartermaster Troop Transport Com-
pany, T/O & E 10-57, provides motor vehicle transportation
for cargo or for personnel. Its personnel and equipment
must be ready to haul any kind of cargo, any time of day
or night, to and from any place that higher authority may
direct.
3. FUNCTIONS, a. Functional organization. (1) To
carry out its mission, the company is divided into a company
headquarters and three operating platoons. (See fig. 1.)
Figure 1. The junctions of a quartermaster trucks company are carried
out by a company headquarters and three operating platoons.
2
'Platoon operations depend upon the requests for hransporta-
tion received by company headquarters. The trucks of the
platoons may operate either in convoy or as individual vehi-
cles depending upon the nature of the assignment.
(2) When 24-hour operations are required regularly, driver
augmentation to permit two drivers per vehicle may be au-
thorized. T/O & E 10-500 furnishes a guide for ratings of the
additional drivers in the same proportion as for those as-
signed by T/O & E 10-57, as well as for the additional organ-
izational and individual equipment which may be required.
(3) A platoon may be detached and operate independently.
When smaller units of motor transport are required, they
may be organized according to T/O & E 10-500.
b. Employment. The function of transporting men or
supplies is performed in as many different ways as there are
active tactical areas. Because of the widely varying demands
for motor transportation, truck companies may be employed
as separate companies or may be formed into battalions for
more efficient utilization. (See par. 4.) Normally the com-
pany operates as a motor pool (or part of it) for the head-
quarters to which it is assigned or attached according to the
standing operating procedure of the headquarters. When
operating as a motor pool, the company dispatches its vehicles
to perform various types of hauling jobs according to the
requisitions received. (See par. 16.) The vehicles may be
employed in any type of hauling that higher authority may
direct. Supplies may be hauled from shore to dump, from
dump or depot to truckhead, from railhead to supply points,
within a storage area, over established motor transport routes,
or between any two points directed. In transporting troops,
quartermaster truck companies may be employed to motorize
a division, haul labor details, evacuate prisoners of war, carry
up replacements, or to expedite troop movements whenever
the situation demands.
3
4. ASSIGNMENT, a. General. Quartermaster truck
companies are assigned to headquarters of:
(1) theaters of operations
(2) communications zones
(3) armies
(4) separate corps
(5) task forces
on the basis of motor transport required. Headquarters to'
which companies are assigned may attach them to any of
their lower headquarters as the situation may require. The
policy of assigning companies to higher headquarters and
attaching them as needed to lower echelons has the effect of
forming a massive motor pool in each theater which is broken
into smaller operating units. This results in a flexible organ-
ization that can readily be adjusted to changes in the tactical
situation.
b. Assignment as a separate company. The company
may be attached to an installation or organization such as a
port, division, or task force as motor transport to supplement
the organic transport of the installation or organization.
When the company is so attached, the company commander
normally receives his instructions and operates according to
standing operating procedure set up by the installation or
organization.
c. Assignment as part of a motor transport organ-
ization. Truck companies may be organized into larger
groups for more efficient utilization of vehicles. The follow-
ing organizations are the more common:
(1) The quartermaster battalion, mobile {troop transport),
is formed by attaching from two to six truck companies to a
headquarters detachment (T/O & E 10-56) for administra-
tion and control. A battalion consisting of six companies
may be attached to an infantry division; its vehicles, together
4
with the organic transport of the division, will completely
motorize the division.
(2) The quartermaster battalion, mobile {tructO, is com-
posed of a headquarters detachment (T/O & E 10-56) and
from two to six attached truck companies. This designation
is used when the battalion is used for general transportation
and supply movement. The company is the basic unit and
the battalion headquarters is formed for purposes of' admin-
istration and control. The number of truck companies" varies
with the requirements of the local situation.
(3) The quartermaster battalion is composed of a head-
quarters and headquarters detachment (T/O & E 10-536)
and from three to six quartermaster companies. The com-
panies may be all of one type or a combination of different
types, such as salvage repair, bakery, laundry, truck, etc. A
quartermaster battalion is organized to supervise and coordi-
nate administration, training, operation and supply of a num-
ber of quartermaster companies or remount troops.
(4) The quartermaster group is composed of a headquar-
ters and headquarters detachment (T/O & E 10-22) and
two or more battalions. The group is formed to provide a
command agency for planning, supervising and coordinating
the operation, training, administration and supply of quarter-
master units attached or assigned to the group.
d. Assignment by Tables of Organization. Several
tables of organization call for quartermaster truck companies
to be assigned or attached as part of larger organizations.
The more common of these are:
(1) Headquarters and Headquarters Company, (Quarter-
master Base Depot, T/O & E 10-520-1.
(2) Quartermaster Depot Company, Supply, T/O & E
10-227.
(3) Quartermaster Squadron, T/O & E 10-115.
5
(4) Quartermaster Headquarters and Headquarters Coni-
pany, Engineer Special Brigade, T/0 & E 10-276S.
5. ORGANIZATION And EQUIPMENT, a. Organ-
ization, The quartermaster truck company (troop), T/O &
E 10-57, consists of a company headquarters and three pla-
toons of two sections each. (See fig. 2.) Each of these com-
ponents is organized as follows:
(1) Company headquarters performs the following func-
tions:
(a) Command. The function of command is embodied in
the company commander.
(i) Administration. The first sergeant and the company
clerk perform the administrative details concerning the com-
pany personnel.
(c) Mess. The mess sergeant and the cooks under him
operate the company mess.
((f) Supply. The supply sergeant is responsible for supply
of individual and organizational equipment.
(e) Maintenance. The motor officer, motor sergeant, and
the company mechanics perform second echelon maintenance.
Figure 2. The quartermaster truck, company is composed of a. company
headquarters and three truck platoons of two sections each.
6
supervise first echelon maintenance, and supply spare parts
and motor supplies.
(2) Platoons. Each of the operating platoons is composed
of a platoon headquarters and two sections. In the platoon
headquarters the platoon leader and platoon sergeant direct
and supervise the operation of the platoon. Each section is
headed by a section leader who directs and supervises the
operations of the section. The section operates as two squads,
each headed by a squad leader.
b. Equipment. The individual and organizational equip-
ment of the quartermaster truck company (troop) is pre-
scribed by section II, T/O & E 10-57.
Section III. QUARTERMASTER TRUCK COMPANY,
HEAVY, T/O & E 10-37
6. l^ISSION OF COMPANY, a. The quartermaster
truck company, heavy, T/O & E 10-37, when equipped with
10-ton semitrailers, provides transportation for general cargo
under conditions which would render the use of lighter
equipment uneconomical.
b. When equipped with gasoline semitrailers, the company
is designated as quartermaster truck company (petroleum),
T/O & E 10-37. When so equipped, the company provides
bulk transportation for petroleum products.
c. The quartermaster truck company, heavy, T/O & E
10-37, provides motor vehicle transportation according to its
equipment under the same and similar conditions as stated
in pafagraph 2 above (except so far as it applies to per-
sonnel) for the quartermaster truck company (troop), T/O
& E 10-57.
7
7. FUNCTIONS, a. The quartermaster truck company,
heavy, is divided into a company headquarters and three
operating platoons. (See fig. 1.) Its functions are essentially
the same as those of the quartermaster truck company
(troop), T/0 & E 10-57. (See par. 3.) However, the heavy
truck company is employed when road conditions, distances
involved, absence from threat of immediate enemy attack,
and unavailability of rail or water transport make its use
more economical.
b. When vehicles are used continuously in convoy or
under other maximum operating conditions, driver augmen-
tation to permit two drivers per vehicle may be authorized.
T/O & E 10-500 furnishes a guide for ratings of the addi-
tional drivers in the same proportion as for those assigned
by T/O & E 10-37, as well as for the additional individual
and organizational equipment which may be required.
•
8. ASSIGNMENT. Quartermaster truck companies, heavy,
are assigned to headquarters of:
. a. Theaters of operations
b. Communications zones
c. Armies
d. Separate corps
e. Task forces
in the same manner as quartermaster truck companies
(troop). The headquarters then attach the companies to
lower headquarters as the situation requires. Each company
may operate separately, or several companies may be at-
tached to a headquarters detachment (T/O & E 10-56) to
form a quartermaster battalion, mobile (truck), as described
in paragraph 4c(2).
9. ORGANIZATION AND EQUIPMENT, a. Per-
sonnel. The quartermaster truck company, heavy, consists
8
of a company headquarters and three platoons of two sections
each. The company headquarters functions as described in
paragraph 5a(l). The platoon organization is described in
paragraph 5a(2).
b. Equipment. (1) The individual and organizational
equipment of the company is prescribed in section II, T/O
& E 10-37.
(2) The quartermaster truck company, heavy, is furnished
either stake and platform tractor-trailer units for transporting
general cargo, or gasoline tractor-trailer units for transport-
ing bulk petroleum products. When conditions, permit,
dollies and additional stake and platform semitrailers may be
provided tp permit dual trailer operations. This heavy equip-
ment gives the company a capacity about three times that of
the quartermaster truck company (troop) while requiring
only a few more men.
9 /
CHAPTER 2
PERSONNEL
10. COMMISSIONED OFFICERS, a. General. All
officers of the company must be thoroughly familiar with the
operation, maintenance, and employment of vehicles, as well
as with convoy operations, accident investigation procedure,
security measures, field sanitation, and truck company
operation.
b. The company commander is both the administrator of
the company and the director of its operation. He is respon-
sible for the training of the company, for its efficient admin-
istration, and for maintaining discipline. The administrative
duties of the company commander are given in AR 245-5
and TM 12-250. As director of the motor transport opera-
tions of the company, his duties include:
(1) Instructing and supervising company personnel in
truck and convoy operation, maintenance of vehicles, and
methods of loading.
(2) Preparing schedules for operation.
(3) Supervising and assigning driving and maintenance
duties.
(4) Supervising the dispatching of vehicles.
(5) Coordinating operational and maintenance phases of
company activities.
c. The motor officer is responsible to the company com-
mander for the efficient operation of the automotive equip-
10
ment of the company. He assists and advises the company
commander in the assignment of proper personnel to the
various operating units and in the conduct of the various
phases of technical training. The duties of the motor officer
may be summarized as follows:
(1) Supervising the second echelon maintenance and re-
pair.
(2) Supervising the basic and advanced instruction of
vehicle drivers and the basic, technical, and tactical training
of motor maintenance personnel.
(3) Assigning repair tasks and supervising the perform-
ance of the company mechanics through the motor sergeant.
(4) Making inspections to determine repair or replace-
ment requirements and the adequacy of repairs accomplished.
(5) Keeping informed about the location and availability
of third echelon shops and motor parts supply operated by
higher echelons.
(6) Maintaining stock records of motor supplies and spare
parts and requisitioning these items as required.
(7) Recommending to the company commander the loca-
tion of the maintenance point in the field.
(8) Making recommendations for improvements of motor
maintenance and transport operations.
d. Platoon leaders. (1) The three platoon leaders of a
quartermaster truck company have the responsibilities for the
training and discipline that devolve upon platoon leaders in
any military organization. In addition, the platoon leader is
a truck officer who commands a truck unit and is respon-
sible for hauling cargo and personnel by motor transport.
Thus he is responsible for the proper training and operation
of his platoon, including both the technical and the tactical
phases. Following the general instructions and training
schedules of the company commander, he instructs and super-
vises the platoon personnel in truck and convoy operations.
11
in first echelon maintenance, in methods of loading, and in
cargo distribution. He is responsible for making certain that
the instructions of the company commander are carried out
by the members of his platoon.
(2) Platoon leaders should train their platoons with a dual
purpose in mind. First, they are responsible to the company
commander for the development and training of the platoon
personnel as part of the company team. Secondly, they must
make the unit self-reliant since the platoon may be detached
from the company and operate as a separate unit. In such a
situation the platoon leader would function as commander of
an independent detachment and might be responsible for. the
administration, transportation, supply, and security of the
unit. Platoon leaders should be encouraged to act on their
own initiative in order to be prepared to operate either as a
separate detachment or as part of the company.
(3) When the company operates as a unit, platoon leaders
are available for additional duties which may be assigned by
the company commander. Such duties include assignments
as mess officer, supply officer, gas officer, security officer,
company censor, and such others as the situation demands.
In delegating this authority, the company cotpmander retains
responsibility for the proper performance of these duties.
However, he must free himself of some of these duties in
order to have adequate time to supervise and direct the
company’s operations. Truck company officers are often
called upon to perform such duties as convoy officers, motor
pool supervisors, and accident investigation officers.
11. ENLISTED PERSONNEL, a. The first sergeant is
the senior noncommissioned officer of the company. He is
the noncommissioned administrative assistant to the company
commander. His duties are explained fully in TM 12-250
and TM 12-255. In the quartermaster truck company
12
(troop), T/O & E 10-57, he is the truckmaster in addition
to his duties as first sergeant.
b. The truckmaster is the noncommissioned operations
assistant of the company commander. He acts as the direct
supervisor of motor transport operations, assisting the com-
pany commander in their coordination and control. He
should be an experienced truckman capable of instructing
drivers in operating, lubricating, and cleaning vehicles and
in map reading, first echelon inaintenance, and other essen-
tial . details incident to proper operation of Army motor
vehicles. He must be thoroughly familiar with civil laws
and military regulations pertaining to the operation of motor
vehicles and motor convoys. When the company operates
as a unit, his duties are:
(1) Supervising the motor vehicle park.
(2) Assisting, when required, in making inspections.
(3) Supervising and checking vehicle operation.
(4) Reporting evidence of neglect, abuse, or carelessness
to his superior officers.
(5) Keeping, or supervising the keeping of, records con-
cerning motor vehicle operation, fuel and oil used, and
supplies (in coordination with the motor sergeant).
(6) Supervising the proper dispatching and routing of
company vehicles.
(7) Supervising the organization of the company vehicles
in convoy operation. (See par. 13c.)
c. The motor sergeant is the chief mechanic of the com-
pany and the noncommissioned assistant to the motor officer.
He is responsible for control and coordination of the main-
tenance crew. He is responsible to the motor officer for the
proper operating condition of motor vehicles. He must be
familiar with TM 37-2810, TM 31-200, appropriate vehicle
Technical Manuals, applicable Technical Bulletins, Modifica-
tion Work Orders, and Lubrication Orders. He must know
13
Army vehicle operation, maintenance, inspection, and re-
pair. He must organize the second echelon shop and operate
it in accordance with good shop procedure. In general, his
duties are:
(I) Organizing, assigning, and supervising the work of
the mechanics.
■ (2) Determining the priority of work.
(3) Diagnosing mechanical failure, and, when necessary,
giving mechanics instruction as to proper corrective action.
(4) Checking mechanics’ adjustments and repairs.
(5) Enforcing scheduled maintenance.
(6) Supervising the ordering and issuing of motor sup-
plies and coordinating the technical phases of motor supply
with motor maintenance activities.
(7) Supervising the lubrication of motor vehicles.
(8) Supervising the starting of vehicle engines (particu-
larly at motor call) to insure prompt starting and proper
warming up.
(9) Supervising the recovery and evacuation of stalled or
disabled vehicles.
(10) Establishing the company maintenance point in the
field, and notifying all concerned of its location.
(II) Making prescribed records and reports on scheduled
preventive maintenance, and on servicing and repair work
satisfactorily completed.
(12) Riding in convoy operations, usually at the tail of
the column as part of the maintenance group, and observing
vehicle operation on the march, making corrections when
necessary and checking, or requiring mechanics to check, all
vehicles during any march halt and upon completion of the
day’s run.
d. Mess sergeant. (1) The mess sergeant is in imme-
diate charge of the company mess, functioning as the non-
commissioned assistant to the mess officer. He is charged
14
with the suervision and control of the activities of mess
personnel. He must have sufficient knowledge of dietetics to
maintain a balanced menu, and must be able to direct the
preparation of palatable meals under unfavorable field con-
ditions. His duties are discussed in detail in TM 12-250
and TM 10-205.
(2) The mess sergeant must coordinate the mess with the
company operations. In addition to the regular meals, food
must be provided for drivers who are on duty at mealtime.
When vehicles are operating at night, box lunches or special
type rations must be issued. If vehicles are operating over an
established route, the mess may be divided into two- sections
with one serving meals at the bivouac and the other serving
at the loading point or a servicing point along the route.
Under these conditions, additional mess equipment, such as
pumps and tools for the fire unit, may be necessary. The
mess sergeant must work in close cooperation with the first
sergeant so that he will know how many meals to prepare
and when and where to serve them.
e. The supply sergeant is the noncommissioned assistant
to the company commander or the company supply officer.
He is in direct charge of the supply of organizational and
individual equipment and expendable supplies for the com-
pany. He performs the normal duties of a supply sergeant
as outlined in TM 12-250, and according to procedures
prescribed by Thi 38-403 and related War Department
publications. In the field, he must plan his work so as to
be able to contact personnel ' when they are in the bivouac
area. The collection of salvage and the issue of clothing and
equipment must be coordinated with the company opera-
tions.
f. Platoon sergeant. (1) The platoon sergeant is the
noncommissioned assistant to the platoon leader. He helps
in training the platoon and supervises both its tactical and
15
technical operations. Through the section leaders and squad
leaders under him he directs the drivers of the platoon in
truck and convoy operations, first echelon maintenance,
loading of vehicles, and security measures. _
(2) To perform his duties and to supervise the jobs of the
men under him, the plStoon sergeant must know the follow-
ing publications:
(a) FM 25-10, Motor Transport.
{b) TM 21-300, Driver Selection, Training, and Super-
vision, Wheeled Vehicles.
(c) TM 21-305, Driver’s Manual.
(if) TM 31-200, Maintenance and Care of Pneumatic
Tires and Rubber Treads.
(e) TM 37-2810, Motor Vehicle Inspections and Preven-
tive Maintenance Services.
(/) Vehicle Technical Manuals.
(3) When the platoon is operating independently, the
platoon sergeant assumes the duties of truckmaster and,
usually, those of motor sergeant. During the training period
he should learn these jobs in order to be able to operate a
separate platoon efficiently. He should also be familiar with
dispatching and with administrative procedure.
g. Section leaders and squad leaders. Under the
direction of the platoon leader and platoon sergeant, each
section leader and squad leader is directly* responsible for the
discipline, training, and operation of the drivers assigned to
his section and squad. The duties of section and squad
leaders in convoy operations are discussed in paragraph 13.
Each one should be familiar with the publications listed in
/ above and should be ready to assume the duties of the
platoon sergeant at any time. Sectiorf and squad leaders are
charged with continuous supervision of their drivers to
insure efficiency of operation under all circumstances.
16
h. The company cler\ performs his duties as prescribed
in TM 12-250. ,
i. The dispatcher schedules trips for all motor vehicles
available for duty. His duties are as follows;
( 1 ) Receiving and filling requests from authorized persons
for use of motor vehicles.
(2) Checking the time of departure and return of each
vehicle.
(3) Issuing trip tickets and collecting them on completion
of each trip, checking to see that they are properly signed
by the person for whom the transportation was authorized.
(4) Maintaining records of speedometer readings, gasoline
and oil consumption, and such other records as may be
required.
j. Mechanics. (1) Under the supervision of the motor
sergeant, the company mechanics perform organizational
maintenance and repairs on the vehicles of the com^pany.
They perform the monthly and semiannual services of the
company vehicles in accordance with TM 37-2810 and the
vehicle Technical Manuals. They also make repairs and
replace parts jnd unit assemblies within their capabilities.
(2) Mechanics should become familiar with the duties of
the motor sergeant so that one of them could take over his
duties should the motor sergeant become a casualty.
k. The coo\s, under the mess sergeant, prepare the
food for the company. Their duties are discussed in detail
in TM 10-205. Information in TM 10-400, TM 10-701,
TM 10-405, TM 10-406, TM 10-407, TM 10-408, TM
10-411, and TM 10-412 is essential in the performance of
their duties. When the truck company is operating 24 hours
a day, cooks must provide meals for both' shifts of drivers
as well as box lunches or meals to be delivered to the loading
area. They must be capable of cooking palatable food, under
unfavorable field conditions, using the field range.
17
l. Drivers. (1) Well-trained and responsible drivers are
the backbone of an efficient truck cony^any. They rnust
know their vehicles, first echelon maintenance, convoy oper-
ation, and loading. The driver is responsible for the opera-
tion of his vehicle and for the safe arid prompt delivery of
his loads. He must \now TM 21-305 and the Technical
Manual pertaining to his vehicle. The duties of the drivers
in convoy operations are discussed in paragraph 13.,
(2) Drivers should learn the duties of the squad leaders
and, when possible, those of the mechanics. Wherever prac-
ticable, suitably qualified mechanics and drivers should ex-
change jobs as a part of their training. By this method the
drivers learn the duties of the mechanics and the mechanics
improve their skill as drivers. In the event that men of
either group become casualties, the company is able to
continue to operate efficiently.
m. Armorer-artificer. The armorer (T/O & E 10-57)
or artificer (T/O & E 10-37) is the “handy man” of the
company. In addition to maintaining, servicing, and mak-
ing minor repairs on the small arms of the company, he does
carpentry, painting, and similar repair work. In the field the
artificer constructs tables, showers, work racks, and other
field expedients to improve the bivouac or billet area. When
the truck company expects to be in one location for sev-
eral weeks, field installations constructed by the artificer
contribute greatly to the health and comfort of the
men. ''
12. TRAINING, a. Responsibility. The Commanding
General, Army Ground Forces, is charged with the respon-
sibility of organizing, activating, equipping, and training the
quartermaster truck company (troop) or quartermaster troop
transport company, T/O & E 10-57. The unit training is
prescribed by MTP 10-4, Headquarters, Army Ground
18
Forces, which is supplied to the unit upon activation. The
actual training is the responsibility of the company com-
mander. He prepares the training schedules based on MTP
10-4 and sees that the training is conducted as prescribed.
The quartermaster truck company, heavy, T/O & E 10-37,
is trained under a similar program.
b. Function of enlisted cadre during training. Two
basic qualifications for cadremen are a knowledge of their
specialty and the ability to teach it. While all phases of the
training of a quartermaster truck company will be persoilally
directed and supervised by an officer, the cadre will usually
have direct contact with the trainees except during lectures
or conferences conducted by the commissioned officers.
Therefore, it is necessary that the company officers and the
enlisted cadre work together closely as supervisors and
teachers. To accomplish this, a cadre school is organized as
soon as the unit is activated, preferably before the trainees
arrive. Here the cadremen are reviewed in their specialty
and are trained in the methods of military instruction out-
lined in FM 21-5 and TM 21-250. As soon as the platoon
sergeants and squad leaders are selected, they also attend the
school. Here the company commander is able to set up
definite chains of responsibility for job supervision. The
school continues throughout the training period, although
classes may not meet as often after formal basic and technical
training are completed.
c. Teaching methods. All officers and noncommissioned
officers who teach or train personnel should be thoroughly
familiar with the Army method of teaching, and with the
manuals, charts, graphs, training films, and other instruc-
tional aids which are available through supply channels. All
text references given in the mobilization training program
should be gathered into a company reference library so that
they are available to all personnel. The following publica-
tions are particularly useful in planning training schedules
and in preparing for each day’s training:
(1) FM 21-5, Military Training.
(2) FM 21-6, List and Index of War Department Pub-
lications.
(3) FM 21-7, List of War Department Films, Film
Strips, and Recognition Film Guides.
(4) FM 21-8, Military Training Aids.
(5) TM 21-250, Army Instruction.
(6) TM 21-300, Driver Selection, Training and Super-
vision, Wheeled Vehicles.
(7) AR 1-5, Index to Army Regulations.
d. Developing the skill of personnel. Because of the
wide variety of possible assignments, training of a quarter-
master truck company must be comprehensive and contin-
uous. A theater of operations is no place to teach a man to
drive. There is little time for it and the work loads are often
too heavy. The training period in the United States must
be utilized to the fullest so that every member is trained to
his highest capabilities before the unit moves to a port of
embarkation. Squad leaders and section leaders, as well as
men of the first three grades, must be thoroughly trained in
their duties. Their responsibility as job supervisors who see
that the work gets done must be made real and developed.
In operations where personnel and vehicles are separated
from the company in carrying out their mission, dependable
noncommissioned officers are necessary.
e. Hints for particular emphasis. Experience in thea-
ters of operations has proved that the following subjects
must be stressed incessantly if the company is to operate
efficiently overseas:
(1) First echelon maintenance. Every driver must \now
his vehicle and must perform the maintenance prescribed by ■
the Technical Manual for the vehicle.
20
(2) Trouble shooting. Vehicles do break down and drivers
who are dispatched individually must know what to do to
bring the vehicle in.
(3) Driver discipline. The responsibility of the driver for
his load must be emphasized and made real. Proper han-
dling, loading, protection against theft, and protection against
weather are the responsibility of tjje driver. Drivers operat-
ing individually must also be impressed with their respon-
sibility to deliver their loads without delay and to return
promptly to the place specified.
(4) Bivoltac development. Truck companies assigned to
communications zones or army service areas may bivouac
in the same location for several weeks or months. In such
a situation the value of improving the semipermanent camp
site by good camp engineering cannot be overstressed. It is one
of the most important factors contributing to the comfort,
morale, health, and efficiency of a truck organization in the
field. Proper selection of sites, tent pitching, and operation
and maintenance of field installations (showers, wash racks,
box latrines, etc.), should be included in the training. The
artificer-armorer particularly should know how to improvise
field installations to develop the camp site.
(5) Field sanitation and personal hygiene. During the
training period, field sanitation arid personal hygiene must
be stressed until it becomes second nature with the men.
In tropical and semitropical areas and in semipermanent
bivouacs in any climate, the health and comfort of the men
depend to a large degree upon how well the company is
trained in these subjects.
(6) Security, In areas subject to enemy observation and
attack,, proper security measures must be taken both in
bivouac and on the road. The principles and techniques
outlined in paragraphs 13 and 21 must be thoroughly
taught.
21
(7) Separate platoon operations. Platoons should be
trained to operate as self-sustaining units. In some situations
a platoon may be detached from the company and operate
independently for long periods of time.
(8) Convoy operations. Many truck companies operate
generally as convoys or parts of convoys. Officers, truck-
masters, and motor sergeants must be capable of convoy
control. Drivers and other company personnel must be
thoroughly trained in convoy operations.
(9) Interchangeability of personnel. Every man in the
company should know his own job and at least one other
man’s. By this method the company or separate platoon can
continue to operate effectively in spite of losses in personnel.
(10) Motor discipline drills during lulls in active opera-
tions, as well as in the training period, are important aids in
maintaining discipline apd control in the unit. Drill periods
should be short but well organized. Preciseness in carrying
out such drills must be insisted upon or the drill loses its
value.
22
CHAPTER 3
OPERATIONS
13. CONVOY, a. General. A convoy consists of two or
more vehicles temporarily operating as a unified and con-
trolled element. The rriotor convoy is commonly employed
by quartermaster truck companies to transport troof^ and
cargo and to move the company to a new bivouac.
b. Reconnaissance. Advance planning is essential to
insure the success of any cohvoy mission. Prior to move-
ment, the truck company commander must know the condi-
tion of roads, traffic, terrain, road obstacles, capacity of
bridges to support the weight of traffic, the possibility, of
contact with the enemy, and other factors affecting the
march. Information not already obtained through prior oper-
ations nor furnished by higher headquarters must be secured
from maps and through personal reconnaissance.
(1) Map reconnaissance. The location of roads and towns
and the determination of distances and the nature of terrain
can readily be obtained from the study of maps and, when
available, 'recent aerial photographs. Every truck company
officer and noncommissioned officer should have a thorough
knowledge of map reading.
(2) Field reconnaissance. Such factors as the condition
of roads, washed-out bridges, low underpasses, hazardous
curves, road blocks, and effects of recent enemy action can-
not be determined by maps. Personal reconnaissance by the
23
commanding officer or a reconnaissance party designated by
him is usually necessary. This is especially true when oper-
ating over unknown routes or in the combat zone. The
reconnaissance party must note anything that might inter-
fere with the progress and safety of the convoy. If repair
work is necessary to make the route passable, the company
commander should call on engineer troops. Lacking these,
the work must be done by convoy personnel.
(3) Selection of bivouac. When the truck convoy requires
a new bivouac area, the reconnaissance party, or a separate
quartering party in the case of a large convoy, will select a
site, subject to the approval of the company commander. A
sketch or overlay of the area, showing terrain features and
the Ideation of units should be prepared to assist the com-
pany commander in planning the defense of the area. (See
par. 21.) Upon arrival of the column, the advance party,
assisted by section and squad leaders, will assign trucks and
personnel to specific locations.
c. The organization and selection of personnel of a convoy
depends on such factors as number of vehicles, traffic condi-
tions, and the tactical situation under which they will operate.
Whether the convoy is composed of 4 vehicles or 40, the
following elements are essential: control (head), main body,
and maintenance (trail). (See fig. 3.)
(1) Control of the convoy is^vested in the convoy com-
mander who is responsible for the planning and operations
of the convoy. When the entire company operates as a
convoy, the company commander will usually be convoy
commander. When a platoon, section, or smaller group of
vehicles of the company makes up the convoy, the company
commander will designate an officer or noncommissioned
officer to take charge. In large convoy movements, an escort
officer may be designated to keep the column on the correct
road, to follow the timetables, and to post necessary traffic
24
MAINTENANCE OR TRAIt.
guards, thus enabling the convoy commander to supervise
convoy personnel and to conduct route reconnaissance. A
ranking noncommissioned ofScer is usually designated to
form the convoy and to ride in the first truck in order to
set the pace.
(2) Main body. 'To facilitate control of a large convoy,
the main element may be divided into smaller groups or
serials, each serial under the supervision of an officer or non-
commissioned officer. Serials may be further divided jpto
smaller m?rch imits, with section and squad leaders over
each unit to supervise the operation and maintenance of each
vehicle. Section and squad leaders will be responsible for
checking on the observance of safety regulations, supervising
prope^i||oading of vehicles, regulating the distance between
vehicies in accordance with instructions, supervising preven-
tive maintenance, and reporting vehicle failure to the main-
tenance officer. Drivers and assistant drivers, working under
the supervision of their section and squad leaders, arc respon-
sible for safe driving and for the proper maintenance of their
vehicles according to instructions set forth in TM 21-305.
(3) Maintenance personnel, uhder the supervision of the
motor officer or noncommissioned officer, will ride at the
rear of the column where they will be able to check on any
disabled truck. The trail officer or noncommissioned officer
must decide whether the disabled vehicle is to be repaired,
abandoned, or taken, in tow. He will also check on infrac-
tions of march discipline, and will post rear guards. The
number of mechanics and the amount of maintenance equip-
ment taken on the convoy will be determined by the number
and condition of vehicles in the column and by the condition
of roads. Mechanics will make necessary repairs en route,
perform scheduled preventive maintenance, and assist section
chiefs and squad leaders, on request, in making inspections
and adjustments and in servicing vehicles.
26
d. Security. (1) Plan. Where security is not provided
by higher headquarters, it is the responsibility of the convoy
commander to prepare in advance of the, movement a plan
for the protection and defense of his convoy. Whenever pos-
sible, the plan should be based on information gained
through personal reconnaissance. This information should
include indications of enemy troops, demolitions, mined and
gassed areas, possible points of ambush, and areas favorable
to mechanized attack. The security plan will vary with the
tactical situation and with the standing operating procedure
established by higher headquarters. It is essential that the
security plan embrace such factors as the type of march
column necessary for maximum protection (<? below),
warning sentinels, night discipline, placement of '^ap-
ons, and procedure in case of air, mechanized, or ground
attack. The action to be taken in case of an attack should
be thoroughly understood before the actual movement
begins.
(2) Route reconnaissance. In addition to the advance
reconnaissance, a continuous route reconnaissance must be
provided by advance, rear, and flank guards. The size and
the nature of the guard to be posted by the convoy com-
mander depend primarily upon the probability of hostile
attack. The chief duties of these guards are to clear traffic
and to check on road conditions. It may become necessary
for guards to close with the enemy in order to enable the
convoy to get through; however, combat will be avoided, for
the mission of the convoy is to deliver the goods, not to
engage the enemy. Guards must keep the convoy com-
mander constantly informed of the situation in their sectors.
It is important that all elements detached from the column
for temporary guard duty rejoin the rear of the column
without delay. The following elements provide continuous
route reconnaissance:
27
(a) The advance guard will protect the convoy from the
front. The advance guard will precede the first element of
the convoy and will make contact with friendly troops to
provide free passage through the lines. It will observe the
condition of the road over which the convoy will travel and
will be on the alert for mined areas and any indication of
the enemy. In combat areas the advance guard must be
prepared to deal with snipers, to drive off small enemy
forces, and to delay stronger forces until reinforcements
arrive or until the convoy can be rerouted.
{b) The rear guard will protect the column from hostile
forces that may overtake it from the rear. On contact with
the enemy, its chief duty is to warn the convoy commander
an(^o execute demolitions which will delay the enemy and
enable the column to get away.
(c) The flanl^ guard must occupy key points along the
flanks of the column (road junctions, lookout points, possible
ambush areas, tank approaches, etc.) in order to ward off
the enemy. To regulate their movement, flank guards, must
be thoroughly familiar with the route and time schedule of
the convoy. It will sometimes be necessary for flank guards
to move out far in advance so as to operate cross country
and take up a position in time to cover the main ele-
ment.
(3) Type of march. Open column is generally used in the
combat zone because it provides the best passive defense
against air attack and artillery fire. When air attack is likely,
distance between vehicles is lengthened to at least 200 to 300
yards. Such dispersion prevents destruction of more than
one vehicle by a single bomb and offers a poor target for
strafing planes. Tactical conditions, however, may require
bumper-to-bumper driving.
(4) Warning sentinels. When there is a probability of air
or mechanized attack, each vehicle in the convoy keeps a
man on constant lookout. Without radio communication,
very little^ advance warning is possible concerning strafing
planes which are perhaps the greatest menace to a column
of trucks. Prearranged signals, such as three blasts of the
horn or three rifle shots, will be established to indicate the
danger of attack. Every convoy should also have a gas sen-
tinel, trained in the detection of enemy gases. Convoy per-
sonnel will be acquainted with the standing operating proce-
dure in event of gas attack.
(5) Night discipline. (See h below.)
(6) Defense against air attac\. In event of a bombing or
strafing attack, all drivers at first warning seek cover for
their vehicles under any available trees. One method is to
have odd-numbered trucks taken to one side of the roa 4|pnd
even-numbered to the other. All personnel, except machine
gunners, take cover at least 50 yards from the convoy. Each
man carries his individual weapon with him. If time permits,
the driver will remove the fire extinguisher from his truck
and take it with him to fight possible fires resulting from the
raid. Small arms, as well as machine guns, may be used
against planes if higher headquarters so directs. Machine
guns, usually available in the ratio of one to every four
vehicles, are spaced throughout the convoy so that attacking
planes are subject to a field of fire the entire length of the
column. A successful defense plan is to have the first gun in
the convoy pointed to the front, the second to the rear, and
all of the others in alternate directions. Such a screen of
fire will keep away all but the most determined strafing
planes. During an air raid, when it appears that enemy
planes are more intent on destroying nearby installations
than in attacking the convoy, it may be better for the convoy
to keep going at increased speed, with the assistant drivers
manning the machine guns. This decision rests with the
convoy commander.
29
(7) Defense against mechanized attac\. If the main body,
of the convoy is attacked by armored vehicles, the attack is
dealt with in one of two ways. If the tanks attack from such
a position that a route is left open, the convoy proceeds on
its course at the fastest possible speed in hope of outdis-
tancing the tanks. All but the driver employ organic weapons
against the tanks. If the tank attack takes the form of an
ambush which cuts off the route of the convoy, defensive
action is somewhat similar to that employed against aircraft.
All vehicles are brought to a halt and all men with weapons
seek cover which will afford them protection from tanks —
steep, rocky hillsides, clumps of heavy trees, rocky creek beds,
or ditches with steep sides. Small arms are relatively ineffec-
tive^i^ainst tanks except to cause them to “button up.” At
close range, grenade lafmehers, rocket launchers, and Molotov
cocktails are most effective against tanksi When the convoy
is attacked, a predesignated “get-away” vehicle will head for
the nearest command post to summon reinforcements which
will relieve the convoy and enable it to resume its march.
(8) Defense against ground attac\. Enemy riflemen or
machine gunners may elude the advance or flank guards and
attack the main body of the convoy, particularly when \;he
convoy is halted by a road block. Previously designated
personnel, trained for the task, must set to work removing
the obstacles while others give these personnel protection and
return the fire of the attackers. When troops are being trans-
ported by the convoy, the commander of troops takes charge
of the fire fight. If time does not permit the removal of
obstacles, cross country operations may become necessary.
Care must be taken, however, not to run into a mine field
when bypassing a road obstacle.
(9) Defense against artillery fire. When artillery shells
are falling in the area of the truck convoy, the best passive
defense is increased speed and irregular spacing of trucks.
30
e. Types of marches. The time factor and the varying
conditions under which a convoy must operate, such as
secrecy and threat of attack, will determine which of the
following types of convoy marches is to be used;
(1) Infiltration is a type of movement in which vehicles
are dispatched individually or in small groups at irregular
intervals with a fixed density, such as three, four, five, and
six vehicles a mile, so as to enter the normal flow of traffic.
By using more than one route and by mingling with other
traffic, this type of march provides a maximum of secrecy,
deception, and dispersion as passive protection against enemy
observation and attack. It is well suited for daylight marches
in the combat zone. Because of the maneuverability of indi-
vi(^il trucks, the rate of march is high. However, the
column is so extended that the total convoy time may be
greater than for any other type of march. Control of the
column is extremely difficult and careful marking of the
route is essential. In island operations the distances are
norrhally so short and the route so congested that infiltration
is the only form of convoy practicable. Where infiltration is
used extensively it is cornmon practice to have road patrols
operate to aid vehicles broken down on the road and to
prevent unauthorized stops and trips. Infiltration requires
skilled and reliable drivers who are able to operate efficiently
with a minimum of supervision.
(2) Close column moves the largest amount of traffic in
the shortest time. The vehicles are closed up to safe driving
distances from each other, usually between 10 and 70 yards.
(This spacing is usually figured as twice the speedometer
reading in yards.) Since dose column does not provide
adequate dispersion, its use is limited to the communications
zone or to black-out driving where vehicles must maintain
close contact. Unless there is tight control of the column,
vehicles are likely to jam or to arrive at the destination faster
than they can be unloaded or assigned space. Close column
should never be used when open column will provide the
desired traffic flow.
(3) Open column provides the best possible compromise
between infiltration and close column— a shorter time length
than infiltration and a wider dispersion than close column.
Vehicles march in formation with a flexible spacing of from
100 to 225 yards or more apart, depending on speed of
vehicle and visibility. This dispersion maintains the integ-
rity of the -marching unit yet reduces the vulnerability to air
attack. Because of the greater lead, driver fatigue is less than
with close column. Each driver, however, must be trained
to estimate distances and maintain proper leads. Open
column is used extensively in the combat zone and at||[ght
when lights are permitted.
Note. To compute data for road space and time length of column
for large convoys, see FM 101—10 and 25—10.
f. Shuttling is a system of transportation employing
several trips of the same vehicles .to complete the movement
of troops or supplies. (See fig. 5.) It is customarily used
where transportation facilities are limited. There are two
methods of shuttling. In the first, the vehicles transport part
of the troops all the way to their destination and then return
to the starting point for the remainder of the troops. This
is the usual method employed to shuttle troops, and is the
only shuttling method applicable to supplies. In the second
method the vehicles transport part of the troops to a pre-
viously designated turn-around point, from which they pro-
ceed by foot to their destination. In the meantime, the troops
left at the starting point have proceeded on foot until they
are picked up by the returning vehicles. They are then
transported to their final destination. This second method,
although reducing the total time required for the movernent.
33
34
PART RIDE PART WALK SHUTTLING
Figure 5. Shuttling is necessary when insufficient vehicles are available to transport all troops or supplies in one tnp.
produces greater troop fatigue. (For a more detailed discus-
sion of motor marches, see FM 25-10.)
g. Proper convoy control is essential to insure the
unimpeded progress of the column, to maintain proper dis-
persion and security, and to enforce maintenance and safety
regulations. Lack of proper control will result in delayed
movement of supplies, in accidents, and in excessive casualties
from enemy action.
(1) Traffic systems. Two systems of road control are used,
the choice depending on the size of the convoy, on the traffic,
and on tactical considerations.
(a) Area control. Under area control the headquarters
(responsible for traffic control in the area assigns military
police to guard intersections, to escort the column, ar^Jto
do patrol duty en route, in accordance with the circulBft>n
plan in effect. Area control is used chiefly in large-scale
operations and where unified control over all traffic in the
area is necessary. In such cases, higher headquarters will
usually furnish march orders together with tables and graphs
specifying route of march, control points, and time for arrival
of all elements of the convoy. If the convoy is to pass through
cities or towns, higher headquarters will make the necessary
arrangements with civil authorities. The motor express route
is one adaptation of area control sometimes used for long-
distance hauling in the communications zone over an estab-
lished route. This route is reserved for supply and troop
convoys and may be blocked off by signs and by military
police. Each truck platoon or company is assigned a sector
of the highway and operates a service and maintenance sta-
tion for all vehicles passing through the sector. While a
vehicle is being serviced, the driver rests and is fed by the
' organization mess. Unless tactical considerations require
such a system, it is not normally employed because it requires
the driver to operate independently, and because the relaxing
35
of driver responsibility for preventive maiptenance may,
result in increased mechanical failures on the vehicle.
{b) Unit or organizational control. Under the unit sys-
tem, traffic control is handled by the traffic personnel of the
convoy, supervised by the convoy commander. A control
vehicle usually precedes the convoy and blocks all traffic at
busy intersections. The guards remain at the intersection
until the convoy passes and then proceed to the head of the
column in preparation for the next intersection. Where dis-
mounted guards or guides are posted by the control vehicle,
they are picked up by the trail vehicle and returned to the
head of the column, usually at the halt.
(2) Briefing. Prior to starting the march, the convoy
comnwnder should outline to the convoy personnel, includ-
inJBjj^ers, the mission of the convoy, route, and such
details of road conditions as are available. Personnel should
be supplied with strip maps (see fig. 6) when possible. Thi.i
briefing will prove especially valuable should any vehicle
become separated from the column.
(3) Communications, {a) Signals. Standard hand signals
are used to control columns that are short enough for signals
to be seen the length of the column. (For conventional hand
signals, see TM 21-305.) Bugle, whistle, and horn are
seldom used as signals because they may be confused with
the standard emergency warning of attack which is three
blasts of a bugle or horn, or three shots from a weapon.
At night, prearranged headlight signals may be used to con-
trol the convoy, provided there are no black-out restrictions.
(^) Written or verbal messages. A %-ton truck may be
employed to send written or verbal message from front to
rear, where road width permits. Whatever method of com-
munication is used, only brief, simple messages should be-
transmitted while the column is in motion. Longer instruc-
tions may be conveyed while the column is halted.
36
(4) Traffic aids, (a) Road maps showing the route of
travel are useful for orientation and guidance and provide a
convenient form on which to record road data. Recent aerial
photographs are a valuable supplement.
(b) Strip maps. The most common form of map used
by small truck convoys is the strip map which may be pro-
duced in quantity and furnished to convoy personnel. It is
a schematic picture of the route of march, giving route
numbers, the location of side roads, towns, and rest points.
(See fig. 6.) Strip maps are especially helpful to drivers
who operate independently or when distances between vehi-
cles are so great that individual vehicles are liable to become
separated from their column.
(c) Timetables and march graphs are prepared for large
convoy operations and accompany the march ordejplom
higher headquarters. They provide the simplest means of
determining the detailed time schedule of a march. They
show such data as entrucking time and hour of arrival and
departure of each serial, thus enabling the command to keep
the convoy moving on time and to synchronize with other
traffic in the area. (See FM 25-10 and FM 101-10 for data
on compiling march tables and graphs.)
{d) Road markers. Signs can be used effectively to guide
the convoy over proper roads and to protect it from traffic
conflict and road hazards. Personnel should not be posted
where signs can be used with equal effectiveness. Signs
placed by advance vehicles are usually picked up under the
supervision of the trail officer.
(e) Road guides and guards are useful after dark and at
confusing intersections and railroad crossings. They may
serve as guards to halt cross traffic, thus enabling the convoy
to pass through. For a large convoy they may be furnished
by the provost marshal, or in case of a troop convoy, by the
37
Figure 6. Strip maps are often needed by drivers operating
independently and by small convoys.
commander of troops. Guards should be posted at the front
and rear of a halted convoy.
(5) Halts should be made for scheduled preventive main-
tenance and for the relief of troops. It is advisable to schedule
the location of halts prior to departure. Selection of halts
in combat areas must take into consideration camouflage and
dispersion'. Instruction for making halts and posting of
security is contained in FM 25-10. ,
h. Night operations. (1) General. Truck convoys must
frequently move under cover of darkness to escape enemy
observation and attack, to make use of a round-the-clock
schedule, or in desert operations to avoid the heat of 'day.
Daylight reconnaissance should precede night operations in
the combat zone or over unknown routes.
(2) Drivers. Night driving requires skilled and
enced drivers and strict march discipline. Drivers must be
thoroughly familiar with the instructions on night driving
contained in TM 21-305. The company commander, through
testing, should select only the most capable men for night
driving, being careful to reject men who are affected with
night blindness. He must make certain that , drivers are
changed as often as possible during night operation to pre-
vent fatigue and drowsiness. A halt should be given at least
every 2 'hours so that drivers can get some exercise. The
serving of hot coffee is helpful. When changing from regular
lights to black-out. lights during a march, a halt of from
15 to 20 minutes should be allowed to accustom drivers’ eyes
to the darkness.
14. LOADS AND LOADING, a. Personnel. (1)
Capacity. Maximum troop-carrying capacity of vehicles trans-
porting no materials other than arms and equipment of
troops is as follows: truck, ^-ton, 3 men; truck, %-ton,
8 men; truck, 2%-ton, 25 men. This is in addition to the
39
driver and assistant driver. For distances greater than, 75
miles, these loads should be reduced. As a general rule,
unless conditions require maximum loading, no more than
18 men are loaded in a 2|4-ton truck. It is important that
the soldiers arrive at their destination ready for action, not
exhausted and cramped.
(2) Loading, Entrucking and detrucking tables are pre-
pared for important movements. Eyen with small convoys,
however, careful plans for loading should be made to elim-
inate traffic conflict, to conserve the energy of troops, and to
facilitate prompt movement of the convoy. An officer or
noricommissioned officer is usually stationed at the initial
point to see that the convoy is properly formed and that it
out in the prescribed manner. Troops should be
fust prior to departure. (See FM 25-10 for instruc-
tions in entrucking and detrucking.) Although the actual
loading and unloading procedure is the responsibility of
troop commanders and is governed by their standing oper-
ating procedure,, each truck driver is responsible for the
enforcement of safety regulations as prescribed in TM 21-305
in loading and unloading his truck.
pomi Lo s
Vu
l^^Rrqui
(3) Loading time. The average time (for purpose of
computation) required for loading personnel into trucks is
15 minutes; for unloading personnel, 10 minutes. Well-
trained and properly organized troops can do it in much
less time.
b. Cargo. (1) Capacity, (a) General, Maximum pay
loads and maximum tow loads for road operations as well as
for cross country operations are shown on plates on the
vehicle instrument panel. These loads should not be ex-
ceeded except in emergencies and then only by special
authorization, as covered by current War Department direc-
tives.
40
{b) Fuel. A 2^-ton truck will carry a maximum of
125 five-gallon drums of gasoline, except for on-highway use
when 200 five-gallon drums may be authorized; a, 1-ton
trailer will carry a maximum of 50 five-gallon djums.
(e) Bul\ materials. In the absence of dump trucks, truck
company cargo vehicles will occasionally be called upon to
haul sucl^ bulk materials as sand, gravel, earth, or garbage.
(2) The loading of vehicles must be carefully supervised
to insure that cargo space is used efficiently, that supplies are
evenly distributed throughout the body of the truck, and
that the load is correctly lashed down to prevent shifting.
Unusually heavy items such as machinery should be placed
over the rear axle to reduce strain on the chassis. Cargo
should be so stowed that the load will not damag ^ t) i£
vehicle and that the height of the load will not make
41
difficult. (See fig. 7.) Drivers will see that their vehicles are
loaded according to instructions in TM 21-305 and TF
10-1241, that all safety regulations are complied with, that
cargo is protected against the weather, and that the weight
does not exceed the authorized maximum.
c. Handling of explosives and inflammables. (1)
General. The movement of ammunition or gasoline in
trucks is a highly dangerous task. It is, therefore, essential
that personnel know and observe all safety regulations.
Ammunition and gasoline should not be hauled in the same
vehicle with supplies or troops. Vehicles carrying these mate-
rials should travel in the rear of the convoy. In the zone
of the interior. Army vehicles carrying ammunition or. toxic
^^•across state borders must also comply with Interstate
P^^Pierce Commission regulations governing these mate-
rilP (See AR 55-155.)
(2) Ammunition. These general rules for the transporta-
tion of explosives must be followed. (For detailed instruc--
tions, see TM 9-1900.)
(a) Handle with care and avoid overloading.
{b) Explosives must be securely placed in the vehicle to
prevent shifting and falling. They must never be carried on
the tail gate. Drivers should stop at least once each hour to-
check the load.
(c) Vehicles bearing explosives should be clearly labeled
to warn approaching traffic, unless labeling is prohibited for
security reasons.
(d) Vehicles should be driven at safe distances from other
traffic and drivers should be cautioned about making sudden
stops or turns.
(e) Detonating caps must not be transported in the same
vehicle with other explosives. This does not apj)ly to carry-
ing complete rounds of artillery ammunition, including fuze
42
and primer, in one vehicle by combat units. Mines and
grenades must not have fuzes connected while in transit.
(/) Artillery projectiles should be laid on the side instead
of on the base, with sides of projectile parallel with the
truck body.
(g) The engine must be turned off and smoking in or
near the vehicle must be prohibited during the loading of
these materials.
(3) Gasoline and other in-flammable liquids. Because
gasoline is such a common commodity, the fact that it is a
powerful, dangerous explosive is sometimes overlooked.
The vapor from 1 pint of gasoline will make from 62.5 to
250 cubic feet of explosive mixture. Therefore, the safety
rules prescribed in AR 850-20 must be rigidly observed^Bjj
the following points continuously stressed;
(«) During the loading and unloading of these materials,
vehicle engines must be turned off and smoking in the area
must be prohibited.
{b) Proper fire-extinguishing equipment will be carried on
the trucks and will be checked regularly.
(c) Drivers must inspect gasoline cans for leaks and permit
no defective cans to be loaded.
(«/) Gasoline cans will be kept tightly closed, whether full
or empty.
(e) Normally, tarpaulins should be removed from trucks
hauling gasoline. If that is not possible, tarpaulins which
have become saturated with gasoline or fumes should be
carefully aired and dried before being stowed.
(4) Chemical agents. When transporting chemical shells,
the driver should be provided with a gas mask and with a
supply of protective ointment for burns.
15. SHIPMENT OF VEHICLES, a. Rail. (1) General.
The local rail transportation officer and railroad officials
43
should be consulted far enough in advance of date of ship-
ment to insure adequate planning. The shipment of Army
vehicles in the zone of the interior must conform to carriers’
rules established and published by the Association of Amer-
ican Railroads. Useful tables for estimating space require-
ments for vehicles are contained in FM 101-10.
(2) Preparation of vehicles. Instructions for the prepara-
tion of vehicles for shipment are contained in current War
Department publications.
(3) Loading. Vehicles may be shipped on flatcars, end-
door boxcars, side-door boxcars, or drop-end gondola cars.
If possible, load vehicles under their own power, using end
ramps and spanning platforms. Vehicles on the car must be
jfe^Kd against movement lengthways and sideways and
^^Bst bouncing. Detailed instructions for blocking and
securing vehicles on the car are found in AR 55-155 and in
the vehicle Technical Manuals. This procedure is also
demonstrated in TF 10-1240.
b. Water. (1) Preparation of vehicles. All unboxed
vehicles will be prepared for oversea shipment under the
direction of the port commander, taking into consideration
the safety of the ship and the mission assigned. In preparing
die vehicle for loading, the factors of extended storage time,
temperature changes, and the effects of sea water must be
considered.
(2) Loading and securing the vehicle on board ship is
accomplished by ship personnel, with the assistance of truck
company personnel.
\
16. DISPATCHING. Efficient dispatching makes maxi-
mum use of carrying power of company vehicles and pre-
vents unnecessary tying up of vehicles and drivers.
a. Dispatching point. Vehicles of a truck company are
usually dispatched from a motor pool which is operated
44
either by the company, or by the battalion when several
truck companies are operating as a unit. In the communica-
tions zone, when there is little danger of air attack, the
motor pool may consist of a formal arrangement of vehicles
in a motor park; in the combat zone the motor pool will
consist of a centrally located dispatching point surrounded
by truck units which are widely dispersed.
b. Procedure. When validated requests for transporta-
tion are received at the dispatching point, vehicles are sent
out either in groups (convoy) or individually as the occasion
requires. .Convoys are made up according to instructions
outlined in paragraph 13. The assignment of trucks and
drivers and the scheduling of individual and nontactical trj^
are normally the responsibility of the truckmaster who"^?
assisted by the dispatcher. ^
c. Record keeping. The dispatcher must keep a reco^
concerning each trip and the availability of vehicles and
drivers.
(1) On receipt of a request for transportation, the dis-
patcher will fill out the Daily Dispatching Record of Motor
Vehicles (WD AGO Form 9-75). Considerable time and
confusion can be avoided if all of the following information
is secured at the time the request for transportation is
received; Who is making the request.? How many v.ehicles
are needed and for what length of time.? When, where, and
to whom will the driver report.? What kind of work is to be
done? The driver should know in advance what type of
hauling he is to do in order to prepare his vehicle for the
particular duty.
(2) The dispatcher will prepare the Driver’s Trip Ticket
and PM Service Record (WD Form 48) and present it to
the driver who is to make the trip. This is tbe driver’s
official authorization, a record of events, and a reminder of
maintenance responsibility. The dispatcher will make certain
45
that the form, when -turned in to him after the trip, is com-
pletely filled out by both driver and official user.
(3) In case of an accident resulting in injury or property
damage, the driver will fill out Driver’s Report — Accident —
Motor Transportation (Standard Form 26) as prescribed in
TM 21-305 and submit it immediately after the accident to
the officer or noncommissioned officer in charge. One copy
of this' form will be kept in the vehicle at all times. The
action required by the company commander, in case of an
accident, and the disposition of this form are specified in
AR 850-15.
, d. Dispatching board. The dispatching board is a sim-
ple device which facilitates the keeping of records and
iiftords a quick method of locating and determining the
f ailability of vehicles and drivers. The board, which is not
ganizational equipment but may be improvised, usually
contains removable labels for each vehicle and each driver.
Pegs are used opposite each label to designate the status of
company vehicles — “in,” “out,” or “deadlined.” (See fig. 8.)
More elaborate boards also show location of trucks. ^
17. REFUELING, a. General. Truck company vehicles
should be refueled and serviced immediately after they
return, from a mission. Both the tanks and the spare fuel
containers should be kept full. Vehicles are usually supplied
with gasoline from 5-gallon drums, and with lubricating oil
either from 55-gallon drums or from smaller containers.
b. Methods of refueling. (1) Company storage. Vehicles
are filled from 5-gallon drums stored at a company refueling
point located in or near the motor park. The company
supply of gasoline is replenished by an exchange of empty
drums for full ones at a class III supply point.
(2) Supply trucks. Vehicles operating in a convoy secure
gasoline en route by exchange of empty drums for full drums
46
during a halt. Either the gasoline supply truck drives down
the length of the column to make this exchange, or indi-
vidual trucks drive past the gasoline truck, make the ex-
change, and then move to a covered area for refueling.
Refueling should be planned to provide security and to avoid
traffic congestion.
(3) Deposit points. Trucks operating independently may
be supplied from a supply truck or from dumps of 5-gallon
containers placed at designated points along the route.
(4) Filling stations. On established truck routes, trucks
may be refueled directly from filling stations set up along
the route by either the truck company or a gasoline supply
company.
(5) Gasoline supply point. In ^ome instances truck com-
pany vehicles secure gasoline directly from a gasoline supply
point by exchanging empty containers for full ones.
c. Safety precautions. (1) When refueling from
5-gallon drums, the flexible spout should first be inserted in
the drum and contact made between the end of the spout
and the opening of the gasoline tank. Such contact should
be maintained at all times during the process of refueling to
avoid danger of sparks generated by static electricity.
(2) Engines and lights should be turned off and no
smoking should be allowed in or near the vehicle during
refueling.
(3) In event of an oil or gasoline fire, the fire extinguisher
provided in the vehicle, or sand, dirt, or ashes should be used.
Water should never be used because it will cause the fire to
spread. (See 14f above.)
d. Storage of gasoline and oil. It will usually be neces-
sary to maintain limited supplies of gasoline and oil in the
company area. These materials should be stored outdoors, at
least 150 feet from any installation. There should be ade-
48
quate drainage ditches around the gasoline supply and the
ground should be cleared of ve'setation for 30 feet on all
sides. Since gasoline tends to form a gum when allowed to
stand in containers for long periods of time, the principle of
“first in, 'first out” should be followed in issuing the supply.
Five-gallon drilms of gasoline should be stored on their bases
in blocks not over 50 feet square and not over 5 drums in
height. Shoring should be provided at the end of each block
to prevent toppling and to permit adequate expansion of
drums. Protection against the direct rays of sun should be
provided by tarpaulin or other means. Drums of lubricating
oil should be stored on their sides, back to back on dunnage,
not more than 5 drums high and in not more than 1 1 double
rows.
18 . SPECIAL OPERATIONS, a. General. Before
a quartermaster truck company begins a special operation,
personnel must be trained in that particular type of opera-
tion. Unusual driving conditions, wide variation in tem-
perature, extremes in temperature, and other factors require
special preparations and special operating techniques. Before
the trucks are dispatched, the drivers must be checked to see
if they have the proper clothing and equipment. Extra
clothing, sleeping bags, insect repellent, or other items that
might be needed should be carried. The vehicles must also
be checked. Heaters, chains, traction devices, and other spe-
cial items necessary for the operation must be present and in
good condition. Vehicles must be lubricated and serviced
according to the requirements of the operation. When the
trips are long or there is a possibility that the driver will
be out for more than several hours, rations (C or K) should
be carried. The success of special operations is largely de-
pendent upon the training, planning, and preparation, which
precede them.
49
b. Operations in sand, dust, and dirt. The vehicle
Technical Manual and TM 21-305 give directions for driving
in sand, dust, and dirt. In general, the following points must
be stressed when vehicles are operating in such terrain:
(1) Soft sand provides little traction for wheeled vehicles.
Tires may be partially deflated to provide more traction but
must be reinflated immediately upon reaching hard ground.
(2) Front-wheel drive and low range are used to keep
shifting of gears to a minimum. The gear ratio needed for
a particular movement should be employed before the move-
ment begins.
(3) The vehicle must be started slowly to prevent digging
in. If the vehicle is parked on a downhill slope, starting is
easier.
(4) In areas of soft sand, the tracks of the preceding
vehicle should be followed when possible.
(5) Maintenance inspections must be frequent and thor-
ough. See the vehicle Technical Manual and TM 37-2810
for detailed instructions.
c. Operations in water and mud. (1) The vehicle
Technical Manual and TM 21-305 give directions for oper-
ation in water and, mud. If deep-water fording operations
are anticipated, vehicles should be prepared as directed in
TM 9-2853. In addition, drivers must become skilled in the
use of the winch, snatch blocks, and A frames. Tire chains
are necessary and must be kept in the vehicles at all times
when they are not in use. When traction devices are issued,
they also should be kept in the vehicles.
(2) Maintenance problems (particularly lubrication) are
increased by operations in water and mud. The maintenance
directions given in the vehicle Technical Manual should be
followed closely.
d. Operations in extreme cold. Before engaging in
operations in extreme cold, quartermaster truck company
SO
personnel must be familiar with cold-weather operations in
general and with the care and operation of vehicles in par-
ticular. The following publications will be helpful:
(1) FM 25-10, Motor Transport.
(2) FM 70-15, Operations in Snow and Extreme Cold.
(3) TM 10-275, Principles of Cold Weather Clothing and
Equipment.
(4) TM 21-305, Driver’s Manual.
(5) Appropriate vehicle Technical Manuals.
e. Operations in the jungle. Truck operations in the
jungle are limited to the few roads which exist or which
may be constructed. Truck companies going into the jungle
must be familiar with the approved doctri-'jas explained in
: FM 72-20, Jungle Warfare, and other War.Depart-
^ ment publications. .
f. Operations in the desert. In preparing for desert
operations, truck company personnel must be trained in
desert procedure as given in FM 31-25, Desert Operations.
The driving precautions for operations in sand, dust, and
dirt (2> above) apply generally to desert operations. The
appropriate vehicle manual and TM 21-305 also give infor-
mation regarding desert operations.
19. TRACTOR-TRAILER OPERATION, a. General.
Tractor-trailer units of the quartermaster truck company
(heavy) and the quartermaster truck company (petroleum)
generally operate in the communications zone where the
road network will permit the additional cargo weight and
' where vehicles will not be subjected to the constant threat of
enemy action. Before sending a tractor-trailer over new roads,
the company commander or other officer must make certain
in his reconnaissance that roadbeds will permit the weight,
that trees or other obstacles will not interfere with the move-
ment of the tractor-trailer, that terrain will not cause any
51
serious operational difficulties and that bridges and under-
passes are adequate.
b. Drivers. Although tractor-trailer units of a heavy
truck company are built to a high degree of perfection in
safety and maneuverability, they require skilled and experi-
enced drivers. Personnel selected as tractor-trailer drivers
should have completed driver training on trucks before being
placed on tractors. Drivers must become proficient in making
turns with the tractor-trailer, in backing into limited spaces,
in applying brakes, in double-clutching, and in connecting
and disconnecting the semitrailer. Instructional information
is contained in TM 21-30^, and in the appropriate vehicle
Technical Manuals. Drivers in the quartermaster truck
company (petroleum) must be thoroughly familiar with
safety regulations prior to operating the gastank trailers.
(See 14c above.)
c. Safety measures. The company commander must
give special attention to the following safety measures:
(1) Air brakes on the semitrailer must be kept in good
repair and drivers must be skilled in their operation. Heavily
loaded cargo semitrailers or gasoline tank^ are dangerous if
not under perfect control.
(2) The process of connecting and disconnecting the
tractor-trailer piust be strictly supervised to prevent such
mishaps as broken brake hose and light connection, damaged
supports, or a tilted or upset trailer. '
(3) In addition to safety precautions which must be
observed in the transportation of gasoline (14c above), atten-
tion must be given to the proper draining and cleaning of
the interior of the gasoline tanks and the maintenance of the
valves. For instructions, consult the Technical Manuals
which accompany the tractor-trailer unit.
(4) When cross country type tractors having universal
action fifth-wheels are employed for highway operation, the
52
side oscillation should be locked out to prevent swaying of
semitrailer 'equipment.
20. SELECTION OF BIVOUAC AREA. a. General.
The general location of the truck company bivouac will be
determined by the command to which the company is
attached. After the general area is assigned, the company
commander will base his selection of a specific location on its
proximity to railheads, supply points, or other installations
with which the company will work, and on such considera-
tions as terrain, road network, security, sanitation, and the
general comfort of troops.
b. Roa({ network. There must be an adequate road
network, with a sufficient tur'^-around area and parking
space to accommodate company Afehicles. The roadbed must
be firm enough to support the truck traffic. This is a prob-
lem existing particularly in jungle operations. It may be
necessary to reinforce roadbeds or to clear areas of approach.
Existing roads should be utilized whenever ^possible, tor
newly constructed roads, unless carefully camouflaged, will
mark the bivouac location on the enemy’s aerial photo-
graphs.
c. Concealment. Wooded areas should be selected when
possible to provide natural concealment for vehicles and
personnel.
d. Security. The area should be selected from the stand-
point of providing adequate security for the company. Guard
posts, lookout stations, gun emplacements, space for disper-
sion of vehicles and personnel, natural obstacles to tanks,
and ground suitable for the digging of foxholes are factors
to be considered in making the selection. (See par. 21.)
e. Sanitation. The area must be considered from the
standpoint of sanitation. High, dry ground and accessible
53
water supply are essential. When an area has formerly beeh
occupied by the enemy, the advance party must see that there
are no booby-traps, no gas-contarriinated areas, and that the
water and ground are not polluted by the disposal of waste.
In tropical regions antimalarial measures may have to be
taken. Company officers and noncommissioned officers must
he thoroughly familiar with information in FM 8-40.
21. SECURITY OF BIVOUAC AREA. a. General.
Truck companies in bivouac will occasionally be given some
measure of protection by special security detachments, but
more . often tactical conditions will preclude such arrange-
ments, and the unit will have to provide its own complete
security organization. There will be times when the company
in bivouac can coordinate its security plan with those of
adjacent troops and thus conserve manpower for active oper-
ations.
b. Camouflage and dispersion. Camouflage and dis-
persion will constitute the major portion of any plan for de-
fense of bivouac against air attack. If the enemy cannot '
locate the position on aerial photographs, the area will prob-
ably escape air attack. Vehicles should be placed as far apart
as possible, preferably from 100 to 200 yards, and not closer
than 100 yards to the perimeter of the area. Vehicles and
installations should be placed in such a position as to take
full advantage of woods, shrubs, or other natural coficeal-
ment from air observation. When trees do not provide ade-
quate overhead and oblique concealment, garnished nets and
other artificial material should be used. Prior instruction and
strict supervision are necessary to construct proper camou-
flage. Faulty camouflage can spoil otherwise good conceal-
ment. Detailed instructions for camouflaging given in FM
5-20, 5-20A, 5-20B, 5-20C and 5-20G should be studied by
company officers and noncommissioned officers.
54
c. Perimeter defense plan. When a truck company is
not supported by neighboring units, the security plan must
provide all-around defense. It must utilize such terrain fea-
tures as drains, steep slopes, wooded areas, and V3ntage
points. (For the preparation of a security plan in jungle
operations, see FM 72-20.) Although modifications will be
required in given tactical ionditions, figure 9 represents one
workable perimeter defense plan for a truck company. In
this plan trucks and personnel of the three platoons are
grouped around the command post which is located in the
center of the bivouac area. The outer ring of sentries should
generally be 1,000 yards or more from the command post.
These sentries will serve as guards against attack by air or
by land. They guard ' ' ainst attack by ■ means of chemical
agents. The outer, ring of guards, remaining under cover,
should be checked at irregular intervals during the night by
a roving patrol. Signs and countersigns are necessary, be-
cause the infiltration of enemy snipers during the night is a
serious threat to service installations especially in jungle biv-
ouac. The remainder of the defense is Hinged on the .50-
caliber machine guns located to provide a maximum of trav-
erse, and on grenade launchers used to guard tank
approaches. It may become necessary to clear fields of fire
for the automatic weapons. In case of attack not more than
two-thirds of the available troops should be employed against
the enemy, in the beginning. The remaining one-third will
be held in reserve near the command post to be committed
only after the direction of the attack is determined. Mines,
tank traps, and road blocks can be used to strengthen the
position. Machine guns mounted on tripods should be dug
in and carefully camouflaged; in a fire fight they should be
covered by rifle fire. If machine guns are kept mounted on
trucks, the trucks should be dug in; otherwise they become
the target of enemy fire. (See fig. 10.) A security plan is of
55
Figure 9. Defense plan for bivouac area should give all-around protec-
tion. In this diagram of a typical, defense plan, first and second platoon
areas show the siting of machine guns, and the third platoon area
shows the disposition of vehicles and personnel.
Figure 10. Machine guns on dug-in truck, can be fired against either
ground or air targets without exposing vehicle or gunner.
56
little value unless it is thoroughly understood by all person-
nel. Every man in the company must be assigned a specific
duty and responsibility in case of attack
d. Individual security. Every man in the truck com-
pany must be prepared to meet sudden and unexepected as-
saults which might include air attack, mechanized attack, or
attack from foot troops dropped by parachute and glider. He
must be especially alert for enemy snipers that are intent on
firing on the command post. In each new area the troops
should be instructed how and where they are to construct
individual fortifications!' These fortifications must fit in with
the general defense plan of the area.
e. Defense against mechanized attack.- Lookouts
should be placed on high points to watch for mechanized
attack. Tank approaches should be guarded by rocket
launchers and machine guns. In case of attack, care -should
be taken not to disclose the position 'of these weapons by
firing prematurely and thus making them a target for long-
range guns on the armored vehicles. Personnel should take
full advantage of natural tank obstacles, for truck company
weapons have limited effect on armor. When tanks are first
sighted, carbine and rifle fire should be opened at maximum
range to force tank personnel into the tanks where their
vision is limited. Every attempt should be made to penetrate
the vision slots and periscopes with small-arms fire. If the
attack is made by armored personnel carriers such as scout
and reconnaissance cars, rifle and machine gun fire may be
started at any time when the occupants of the carriers are
within range of the weapons. ^
f. 'Defense against air attack. Camouflage and dis-
persion provide the best passive protection against air attack.
The bivouac area should always be considered in accordance
with the impression it will present in an aerial photograph.
To keep planes away from the area, .5.0-caliber machine guns
5 /
are effective in a 1,000-yard radius. Guns should he placed
so as to provide interlocking fire. All personnel not required
to man the guns during a raid will take shelter. Personnel
should hold their fire unless it is certain that the planes have
recognized the area and intend to attack. It is also essential
that positive identification of the planes as enemy aircraft
has been made before orders are given to commence fire.
g. Defense against chemical attack. Quartermaster
installations are vulnerable to contamination by toxic cheitii-
cal agents. Low-flying planes can appear with very little
warning and release chemical agents. Defense against chemi-
cal attack varies with the standing operating procedure of
different theaters, but in general the following procedure
should be followed. Gas sentries should be instructed to be
on the alert for gas attack, especially during the night. They
are responsible for waking the occupants of the area when
gas is detected. Each member of the truck company must be
thoroughly familiar with his gas mask and other protective
equipment and must be able to identify toxic gases. Every
vehicle should carry a 1J4 -quart hand-operated spray appa-
ratus containing a noncorrosive decontamination agent.
Drivers should be familiar with the method of decontaminat-
ing their vehicles. In addition each truck company should
have a trained, fully equipped decontamination squad. Since
practically all surfaces except glass and unpainted metal
absorb persistent agents quite rapidly, decontamination
should be started as soon as practicable.
22. MINES AND BOOBY TRAPS. Vehicles driving in
areas suspected of being mined should be heavily sandbagged
as protection to the personnel. Advance guards of a convoy
should be wary of any spots of fresh-turned earth in roads,
and of detours around bridges or road blocks. Booby traps
are likely to be found in areas apparently fitted for bivouac
58
or in the vicinity of wrecked equipment or road blocks.
Buildings and field fortifications abandoned by the enemy
may be booby trapped. Bivouac areas to b& occupied by the
truck company should be checked by the advance party for
possible trajjs, and troops upon entering a new area should
be cautioned about mines and booby traps. (Detailed infor-
mation on mines and booby traps is contained in FM 5-31.)
23. WEAPONS,. For lists of weapons authorized the com-
pany, see applicable T/0 & E.
24. DEMOLITION. Every truck cqmpany commander
should instruct i.'tembers of his command in the fundamen-
tals of demolition technique. (See FM 5-25.) Such action
may be necessary to prevent vehicles or equipment from
falling into enemy hands. Orders for the destruction will
usually come from higher authority. Such orders may indi-
cate whether incendiary, explosive, or mechanical devices
are tq be employed. The company must have a plan of
demotion for every type of vehicle and weapon, faking into
consideration the general method to be employed and the
time available. The same parts of each vehicle should be
destroyed to prevent cannibalization. Pioneer tools are use-
ful in mechanical destruction. When the situation is re-
versed, the discovery of abandoned enemy equipment should
be reported to G-2 immediately.
59
CHAPTER 4
MAINTENANCE
25. IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE. Proper and
continuous maintenance is necessary to keep vehicles of
truck companies “ready to roll” on short notice. No other
organization in the Army is more dependent upon the proper
operation of its vehicles to fulfill its mission; and vehicles
will not operate properly unless they are regularly serviced,
lubricated, tightened, cleaned, and repaired. Complete main-
tenance service is performed under what is termed the “Five
Echelon System” which consists of the two following basic
divisions:
a. Organizational maintenance consists of the first and
second echelons and is performed by company personnel.
Proper organizational maintenance is the- responsibility of
the company commander. He is responsible that instructions
and procedures for preventive maintenance are complied
with, that lubricants, tools, parts and supplies are available
at all times, that personnel are trained in preventive mainte-
nance, and that drivers and mechanics are given time to do
maintenance work.
b. Supporting maintenance consists of third, fourth, and
fifth echelon maintenance. It is performed by service units
in support of organizational maintenance.
26. FIRST ECHELON MAINTENANCE, a. General.
First echelon maintenance is the resnonsibility of the vehicle
60
driver. Section and squad leaders, as job supervisors, check
his work; but the driver is the key person in successful first
echelon maintenance. Each driver is assigned a particular
vehicle which he drives and maintains, and for which he is
responsible. He must conscientiously perform the daily and
weekly preventive maintenance services and report to the
company mechanics any faults he cannot repair.
b. Scope. Detailed discussion of first echelon mainte-
nance is given in TM 37-2810 and in the vehicle Technical
Manual. In general, first echelon maintenance includes:
(1) Inspecting and servicing the vehicle in accordance
with the preventive maintenance operations listed on WD
Form 48, Driver’s Trip Ticket and P.M. Service Record.
The directions given in TM 37-2810 or the appropriate
vehicle Technical Manual must be followed.
(2) Lubricating the vehicle in accordance with the proper
War Department lubrication order. .
(3) Repairing defects which the driver is capable of re-
pairing, equipped to repair, and authorized to repair.
(4) Reporting defects whose repair is not a function of
the driver.
(5) Preventing abuse of the vehicle (including care of
equipment, tools, tires, and batteries).
(6) Making emergency roadside repairs. (See FM 25-10,
TM 21-305, and vehicle Technical Manual.)
c. Necessity for scheduled preventive maintenance.
'Each driver is required to perform preventive maintenance
as a matter of regular routine. However, he must never
forget the necessity for performing the daily and weekly serv-
ices as listed on WD Form 48. He must be thoroughly
familiar with the items listed and with the manner in which
they are to be inspected and serviced. During the training
period, WD Form 48 may be used as check list but the
items must be memorized so that the services will be per-
61
formed automatically. Driver maintenance services, with
their purposes, are as follows:
(1) Before-operation service. Many things can happen to
a vehicle between the last check and the time it rolls again.
A quick check is necessary before the vehicle is again put
into operation. The before-operation service should never be
omitted, even in extreme tactical situations.
(2) The during-operation service consists of detecting im-
proper performance. On the march it is necessary to notice
unsatisfactory or unusual performance and to take corrective
steps before the deficiencies cause an actual break-down.
(3) At-hdt service. The object of the at-halt service is to
correct deficiencies developed during operation. The at-halt
service represents the minimum of preventive maintenance
that must he performed to continue operation of the vehicle.
(4) After-operation service. The purpose of the after-
operation service is to prepare the vehicle to operate again
at a moment’s notice. When it is completed, the vehicle is
ready to roll and should be so reported to the section leader
or other designated authority. The after-operation service is
never entirely omitted but in urgent tactical situations may
be reduced to the bare fundamentals of the at-halt service.
(5) The weekly service is designed to reinforce daily
maintenaace. It consists of the after-operation service plus
additional attention to certain designated items, including a
general tightening, cleaning, and lubrication if required.
This weekly service should include a detailed check by the
section leader and the platoon leader or motor officer on the
quality of maintenance performed by the drivers. The driver
should report the completion of the weekly service so that
the proper entry can be made on the WD AGO Form 460.
d. First echelon during 24-hour operation. When
the company is operating 24 hours a day and it is necessary
to assign more than one driver to each vehicle, the company
62
coittmander may organize first echelon maintenance teams to
help the drivers. These teams may consist of a mechanic or
noncommissioned officer and several men — replacements,
grounded drivers, or men detailed by roster. Often drivers
serve in turn on the maintenance team. This gives the driver
a break in the monotony of almost continuous driving and
an opportunity to learn first echelon maintenance under the
supervision of an expert.
27. SECOND ECHELON MAINTENANCE, a. Gen-
eral. Second echelon maintenance is performed by the
■company mechanics under the supervision of the motor
pfficer and the motor sergeant. In general this includes addi-
tional preventive maintenance, lubrication, minor repairs or
unit replacements, run-in tests, supply, recovery, and inspec-
tions. Drivers should accompany their vehicles to the second
echelon shop and report defects to the company mechanics. '
When possible, buildings or improvised shelters should be
used to house the second echelon shop.
b. Monthly services. (1) Each month, vehicles of a
truck company are brought by their drivers to the company
' maintenance personnel for the monthly maintenance services.
However, the interval between these services may be short-
ened if the vehicles are operating under adverse conditions.
They should be coordinated with necessary repairs whenever
possible to reduce the number of trips to the repair shop.
• (2) Services must be carefully scheduled to regulate the
number of vehicles in the company shop at one time. To
control the flow of vehicles to be serviced and to determine
when vehicles are due for monthly services, WD AGO
-Form 460 is kept by the motor officer.
(3) To establish uniform procedure for the monthly serv-
ices, WD AGO Form 461 is provided. The form lists items
which are to be checked and (when indicated on the form)
63
cleaned, tightened, adjusted, serviced, or lubricated (accord-
ing to the applicable lubrication order). Detailed instruc-
tions, procedures, and technical information for the road
test, maintenance, operations, and final road test which
constitute the monthly services are given in TM 37-2810
and the vehicle Technical Manual. When the operations of
the truck company make it impossible to complete the
monthly services at one time, it can sometimes be handled
in sections, provided the services are completed within a
week.
c. Semiannual services. Vehicles of the truck com-
pany are given a semiannual servicing by second echelon
personnel. WD AGO Form 461 is used as the work sheet
for this servicing also. Detailed instructions, procedures, and
technical information are given in TM 37-2810 and the
vehicle Technical Manual.
/
d. Unit replacement and minor repairs. (1) Repairs
to vehicles are performed in the lowest echelon of mainte-
nance consistent with: the nature of the repairs; the avail-
ability of authorized spare parts, tools, and equipment; the
capabilities of personnel; and the tactical situation.
(2) Quartermaster truck companies have tools, spare parts,
supplies, and mechanics to make the unit replacements and
repairs which are the responsibility of second echelon mainte-
nance. The appropriate vehicle Technical Manuals contain
the technical information needed. When vehicles need unit
replacements or repairs beyond the facilities of second eche-
lon maintenance, they are evacuated to higher echelons as
described in paragraph 28.
e. Supply of spare parts and maintenance supplies.
(1) Estimated quantities of spare parts and maintenance
supplies to be stocked by the company are set up in the
appropriate Standard Nomenclature List (SNL) and the
64
Army Service Forces Ordnance Supply Catalog. Stocks of
spare parts and supplies should not exceed the allowances
authorized unless specific authority has been granted.
(2) The second echelon maintenance shop normally ob-
tains replacement spare parts and unit assemblies by requisi-
tibn or by direct exchange at the third echelon maintenance
organization supporting the truck company. If the unserv-
iceable item cannot be presented for exchange or has no
reclaimable value, the replacement, item is issued on a WD
AGO Form 446, signed by the company commander. The
signed property issue slip serves as a certificate that the
supplies are necessary and that their replacement will not
result in assemblies, “parts, or tools in excess of authorized
allowances.
(3) Unserviceable but repairable parts and assemblies pre-
sented to thQ third echelon maintenance organization for
exchange are tagged by the motor officer to indicate the part
number, the make and model of the vehicle from which
removed, and the nature of the unserviceability; For this
purpose the form used is WD AGO Form 9-81.
(4) Expendable supplies are requisitioned from appro-
priate supporting organizations using WD AGO Form 446.
(5) Excess. parts and supplies are turned in to the third
echelon maintenance shop using WD AGO Form 447.
(6) When the tactical situation prevents the normal ex-
change of spare parts and unit assemblies, replacements
may be secured from disabled vehicles. However, cannibali-
zation is forbidden except in emergencies when contact with
a third echelon maintenance organization cannot be estab-
lished.
f. Special maintenance problems imposed by un-
usual operations. The vehicle Technical Manuals give
detailed instructions for maintenance procedures after un-
usual operations. The following points are stressed:
(1) Sand, dust, and dirt. After operations in sand, dost,
or dirt the following points should be carefully checked:
(a) Brakes should be carefully tested. All fluid lines and
the hydraulic master system should be checked for leaks and
damage. Sand, dust, and dirt may cause abnormal wear and
require adjustment of the brake shoes.
{b) Air cleaners and filters. When operating in sandy or
dusty conditions, clean and service all air cleaners according
to the lubrication order as often as necessary.
{c) Chassis units and gear cases. Excessive dirt and dust
may make more frequent lubrication necessary. Consult the
vehicle Technical Manual or the appropriate lubrication
order for detailed instructions.
(2) Water and mud. Before operations in water, vehicles
should be prepared as prescribed in TM 9-2853. After oper-
ations over muddy terrain, or after shore operations, the
vehicles should be carefully checked. Water and mud destroy
the protective film of the lubricant, and the grit may destroy
wheel bearings, universal joints, and other exposed assem-
blies. Vehicles should be lubricated as often as necessary.
Drivers and company mechanics must be very careful with
their maintenance procedures. Particular attention should be
paid to:
(a) Bra\es and wheel bearings. Wheels should be pulled
frequently and the brakes and wheel bearings checked for
necessary cleaning and repacking.
(^) Chassis units and gear cases. Chassis units should be
carefully inspected for damage. Gear cases must be drained
and refilled.
(3) Cold, jungle, and desert. The vehicle Technical Man-
ual gives detailed instructions for maintenance problems
caused by operations in cold, jungle, and desert.
g. Care and maintenance of unit tools and equip-
ment. Second echelon tools and equipment for the truck
66
company are prescribed by the Table of Organization and
Equipment and Standard Nomenclature List G-27, Tools,
Maintenance, for Repair of Automotive and Semiautomotive
Vehicles. In general, they consist of the following:
(1) Mechanics tool set. Each mechanic is provided with
a general mechanic’s tool set. Proper, care and maintenance
of these tools are the responsibility of the mechanic. A rec-
ord of the component items of the sets is kept by both the
motor sergeant and the supply sergeant and frequent inspec-
tions should be made by company officers to assure the good
condition of all tools. Replacement of lost or unservice-
able items is made through the channels discussed in e
above.
(2) Echelon sets. The care and maintenance of second
echelon unit equipment are the direct responsibility of the
motor officer and the motor sergeant. In general this respon-
sibility includes:
(«) Proper record \eeping. Second echelon tools are en-
tered on the records of both the motor sergeant and the
supply sergeant.
' (2>) Proper storage. All tools and equipment must be
properly stored in the repair trucks or buildings used by
second echelon personnel.
(c) Clearly defined system. A system of signing for com-
pany tools used by the mechanics should be enforced. This
system assures the return of a tool and fixes responsibility, for
its condition.
{d) Replacement of lost and unserviceable items. All tools
and equipment authorized should be on hand and in a serv-
iceable condition. When items are lost or become unservice-
able, replacement items should be secured by exchange or
requisition from the supporting third echelon organization.
((f) Proper use of tools. The motor officer and motor
sergeant must be sure that mechanics use tools only for the
67
purpose intended. Use of screw drivers for chisels, wrenches
for hammers, and other malpractice must be' avoided. (See
TM 10-590.) The Training Films listed in FM 21-7 on the
care and use of tools should be shown.
(/) Proper maintenance of tools and equipment. Tools
and equipment must be properly cleajied, oiled, and re-
paired. Of particular importance are the following:
1. Gasoline-driven items (compressor, battery charger)
must have the preventive maintenance services
thkt are given all gasoline-driven equipment. .
2. Grease-gun fittings and similar items must be regu-
larly checked.
3. To prevent loss, gases (oxygen and acetylene) must
be turned off at the cylinder when not being
used. Directions for the safe handling of com-
pressed gases are found in TM 9-2852.
4- Welding-torch points must be regularly checked.
(g) Prevention of accidents and fires. All personnel must
be instructed in accident and fire prevention. Inflammables
must be properly handled. Wiping rags, oily waste, and
similar material must be burned, buried, or submerged in
water to prevent spontaneous combustion.
h. Command inspections are made by the company com-
mander to determine the condition of the equipment of the
company and the efficiency of the personnel. This type of
inspection may or may not be scheduled. Procedure for con-
ducting command inspections is given in TM 37-2810. These
inspections may be any of the following types:
(1) Formal inspections with the vehicles drawn up in
formation, tools displayed, compartments opened, and the
drivers stationed adjacent to the vehicles.
(2) Informal inspections when the vehicles are parked i*n
their usual position in the motor park, halted on the road,
or passing by on the road.
68
(3) Spot-check inspections using WD AGO Form 9-68.
i. New vehicle run-in test. When a new or recondi-
tioned vehicle is received by the company, second echelon
personnel give it the new vehicle run-in test outlined in
TM 37-2810 to determine whether or not it will operate
satisfactorily when placed in service. All assemblies, sub-
assemblies, tools, and equipment are inspected to see that
they are in place and correctly adjusted. A 50-mile road
test is given the vehicle in accordance with the vehicle Tech-
nical Manual. Deficiencies which are within ’the scope of
second echelon maintenance are corrected. Deficiencies be-
yond the scope of second echelon maintenance are referred
to third or fourth echelon for correction.
28. THIRD ECHELON, a. Repairs requiring spare parts,
tools, equipment and mechanical skill beyond that of the
second echelon organization are usually performed by the
supporting third echelon organization. Close liaison between
the company and the third echelon maintenance shop will
save time in getting repairs done since the tactical situation,
quantities of work on hand, and the nature of repairs will
sometimes determine the echelon which will do the work.
b. Direct communication between the truck company and
the third echelon organization is necessary.
c. Technical inspections of vehicles are performed by third
echelon personnd upon the following occasions:
(1) When a vehicle goes to the third echelon shop for
repair. (It is inspected to determine the repairs necessary,
whether ot not it should be continued in service, and (after
repair) whether or not all defects have been corrected.)
■ (2) When a vehicle is transferred between organizations,
except in theaters of operations.
(3) When required by AR 850-15. (This regulation re-
quires that at least 10 percent of all automotive vehicles and
69
equipment shall be given a technical inspection each 6 '
months.)
Note. Limited technical inspections, using WD AGO Form 461-5,
are given all vehicles (other than new ones or those made serviceable
by repair shop processing) received at motor storage pools. If a vehicle
is classified as serviceable as a result of the limited technical inspection,
a complete technical inspection is performed to insure that all mechani-
cal defects have been corrected. '
29. MAINTENANCE FORMS AND RECORDS.
These forms and records as required for the quartermaster
truck company are described in detail in TM 37-2810. These
forms are classified into the following groups:
a. First echelon. The forms and records listed below
should accompany each vehicle while operating on the road:
(1) Driver’s Trip Ticket and PM Service Record (WD
Form 48). Each driver of an individual vehicle on a non-
tactical mission or not in convoy is required to carry a WD
Form 48. This is his official authorization for driving the
vehicle and (when completed) contains a record of the trip.
The reverse side lists the preventive maintenance services a '
driver must perform.
(2) Driver’s Report — Accident — Motor Transportation
(Standard Form 26). In case of an accident resulting in
injury or property damage, this form is filled out by the
driver on the spot or as promptly as possible thereafter.
(See TM 21-305.)
(3) Motor Vehicle pperator’s Permit (WD AGO Form
9-74). This form is issued to all drivers who are qualified
to operate the particular vehicles noted on the permit.
(4) War Department lubrication order. The appropriate
lubrication order will accompany each vehicle at all times.
(5) Vehicle Technical Manual. Each vehicle will have the
appropriate vehicle Technical Manual at all times.
70
b. Second echelon. This group consists of operation, in-
spection and maintenance forms.
(1) Daily Dispatching Record of Motor Vehicles {WD
AGO Form 9-75). This form records the status of all vehi-
cles dispatched for any particular day.
(2) Automotive Disability Report of Vehicles Disabled
More Than 3 Days (WD AGO Form 13-1). This form is
prepared as directed in current War Department directives
(references printed on face of form).
(3) Spot-check^ Inspection Report for Wheeled and Half-
track Vehicles (WD AGO Form 9-68). This form is used
by officers making spot-check inspections.
(4) Preventive Maintenance Roster (WD AGO Form
460). This form is used for recording the preventive main-
tenance services performed on each vehicle, ft also serves as
a control to schedule the services on a regular cycle.
(5) Preventive Maintenance Service and Technical Inspec-
tion Work Sheet for Wheeled and Half-track Vehicles ( WD
AGO Form 461). This provides a convenient check list to
be used in performing the second echelon monthly and semi-
annual services. It is also used by third and higher echelons
when performing technical inspections.
(6) MWO and Major Unh Assembly Replacement Rec-
ord and Organizational Equipment File,(WD AGO Form
47Sy. This form is printed on a jacket which serves as a
file for other vehicle records.
c. Supply forms. Supply forms are used to obtain, con-
trol, replenish, and to dispose of property. Use of these forms
is discussed in detail in TM 38-403.
(1) Property Issue Slip (WD AGO Form 446). This
form is used to obtain authorized supplies and equipment.
(2) Property Turn-in Slip (WD AGO Form 447). This
form is used to dispose of unserviceable or excess property.
(3) Exchange Part or Unit Identification Tag (WD AGO
71
Form 9-81). This tag is used to identify and exchange un-
serviceable automotive equipment.
(4) Locator and Inventory Control Card (WD AGO
Form d-71). All spare parts on hand, regardless of the
manner of acquisition, are recorded on this form.
72
INDEX
Paragiaph
Page
Armorer (artificer) ....
11
12
Battalions, quartermaster
4
4
Bivouac
12, 13,20,21
18,23,53,54
Booby traps
22
58
Cadre
12
18
Cold weather operations
Company
18
49
Clerk
11
12
Commander
.10, 12, 13, 20, 24, 25 10, 18, 23, 53, 59, 60
Convoy
12, 13
18,23
^ooks
11
12
|pemoUtion
24
59
feesert operations
18
49
Dispatcher
11, 16
12, 44
Dispatching
16
44
Drivers
11, 12, 19,26
12,18,51,60
First sergeant
11
12
Forms and records
16
44
Group, quartermaster . . .
4
4
Jungle operations
18
49
Loading
14
39
Maintenance
First echelon
12,26
18, 60
Forms and records .
70
Importance
60
73
Maintenance {cant'd)
Paragraph
■ Pdic
In convoy
13
23
Second echelon
27
63
Third echelon
28
69
Trouble shooting
12
18
Marches, types of
13
23
Mechanics
...11,26,27
12, 60, 63
Mess sergeant
11
12
Mines
22
58
Motor officer
10
10
Motor sergeant
11
12'
Night operations
13
23
Platoon leaders
10
10
Platoon sergeants
11
12
Quartermaster battalions
-1
4
Quartermaster group
4
4
Reconnaissance
’. 13
23
Records and forms
16,29
44, 70
Refueling
17
46
Safety
17, 19
46,51
Sand, dust, dirt — operations in. . . .
18
49
Sections leaders
11
12
Security
12, 13,20,21
18,23,53, 54
Shipment of vehicles
15
43
Shuttling
13
23
Special operations
18
49
Squad leaders
11
12
Supply sergeant
11
12
T/O & E-500
3,7
2,8'
Tractor-trailer operation
19
51
Training
Truck company, quartermaster
12
18
Assignment
4
4
Functions
3
2
Mission
9
2
Organization and equipment.
5
6
74
"^ruck company, heavy, quartermaster Paragraph
Assignment 8
Functions 7
Mission 6
Organization and equipmerit 9
Truckmaster 11
8
8
7
8
12
Water and mud, operations in. 18 49
Weapons 21,23 54,59
U. S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE ; I94S — ESSeSI
75