Notes on 'The Best Substitute' by Nathan A. Marzoli

The Best Substitute

Author(s): Nathan A. Marzoli
Source: Army History, No. 113 (Fall 2019), pp. 6-25
Published by: U.S. Army Center of Military History
Stable URL: JSTOR Link
References: Linked references available on JSTOR.

Overview

The article discusses the U.S. Army's low-mountain training in the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains between 1943 and 1944, focusing on the preparation for combat in rugged terrains which mirrored the conditions expected in various theaters during World War II.

Introduction

  • Context: Training began even before World War II. The Army recognized the need for specialization in mountain and winter warfare.
  • Goal: Equip standard infantry divisions to operate effectively in low-mountain terrains without transforming them into specialized units.

Private Anthony Silvia's Incident

  • Event: Pvt. Anthony Silvia's jeep accident during maneuvers, resulting in minor injuries.
  • Significance: This incident highlighted the risks in mountainous combat and the learning outcomes expected from the training exercises.

Origins of the Low-Mountain Training Program

  • Pre-War Considerations: Prior to U.S. entry into WWII, the War Department recognized the importance of mountain warfare, particularly after observing international conflicts (Finnish winter troops vs. Soviets, German troop preparations).
  • Mountains Training Program Initiation: Established on 15 November 1941 with the activation of the 87th Infantry Mountain Regiment at Fort Lewis, Washington.
  • Expansion: The program grew in scope and was moved to Camp Hale in Colorado, reinforcing specialized training capabilities.

Low-Mountain Training Program Implementation

  • Location: Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia adopted for training due to its similar terrain to expected combat areas in Sicily.
  • Establishment of Maneuver Areas: Equipment and structures for camp were set up in Buena Vista, Virginia, with facilities in North Camp and South Camp.

Training Objectives

Outlined by AGF (Army Ground Forces):

  1. Familiarization with mountain operations.
  2. Training for deliberate operations with limited objectives.
  3. Superior physical conditioning of troops.
  4. Infantry to operate without transport.
  5. Artillery training to support infantry in mountainous terrain.
  6. Supply agencies to manage communication and adjust to obstacles.
  7. Engineers to improve existing trails and roads.

Training Phases

  1. Phase One: Preliminary exercises focusing on basic acclimatization to terrain.
  2. Phase Two: Simulated combat conditions with various tactical exercises, including rock-climbing training.
       - Assault Rock-Climbing School: Instruction on climbing, rope usage, and moving heavy equipment.

Observations from Virginia Maneuvers

  • Issues identified included lack of leadership, inadequate reconnaissance, and poor physical conditioning among soldiers.
  • Adaptations and recommendations were made to better prepare combat teams for real-world scenarios in mountainous warfare.

Transition to West Virginia Maneuvers

  • Move Date: June 1943; the program shifted to the Allegheny Mountains due to prior unresolved issues in Virginia.
  • First Participants: The new maneuver area trained various infantry divisions including the 28th and 31st Infantry Divisions.

Training Focus in West Virginia

  • Emphasized decentralization of command and improved physical conditioning.
  • Engaged in various types of operations: night driving, packboard use, and cross-country marches.
       - Field Exercises: Combat team exercises to better prepare units under simulated conditions.

Lessons Learned During Training

  • Difficulties in movement logistics were tested through live-fire exercises and terrain navigation.
  • Emphasis on leadership, site positioning, and tactical implementation of cover and concealment.
  • Medical training for battlefield casualty evacuation was essential due to the rugged terrain.

Closure of the Maneuver Program

  • The lack of manpower due to demands for soldiers overseas led to the program's closure on 1 July 1944.
  • Adaptation reflected in two important field manuals published post-training, FM 70-15 and FM 70-10, encapsulating lessons learned.

Conclusion

The low-mountain training program provided vital lessons for infantry operations in mountainous terrain, preparing soldiers for the diverse challenges faced in combat. The encounters in the Virginia and West Virginia maneuver areas played an instrumental role in developing effective command and operational strategies that saved lives and contributed to the U.S. Army's overall combat successes.