Study of Yugoslav Guerrilla Forces of WWII to Inform Modern U.S. Army Strategy During A Near-Peer Military Conflict
Abstract
Introduction: Yugoslavian Partisans of WWII faced extreme medical challenges that spurred innovation while waging guerrilla war against the Nazis. Their innovations can be incorporated into U.S. Army strategy to better combat near-peer adversaries. Methods: WWII records pertaining to Yugoslavian guerrilla medicine were obtained via internet search and documents referenced by subject matter experts. U.S. Army doctrine was identified via the Army Publishing Directorate. Results: Partisans used concealed and secret hospitals ranging between 25 to 215 beds throughout the country. Wards were often subterranean and held 30 patients on average. A prototypical underground ward was approx. 3.5 x 10.5 m with 2 levels of bunks, storage space, and ventilation. Backup storage and treatment facilities were used. Partisans relied on Allied fixed wing aircraft for inter-theater evacuation whereas pack animals and litter bearers were used intra-theater. Guiding Army Medical Department (AMEDD) principles provide a good doctrinal foundation for medical tactics during non-conventional warfare. Deficiencies in Army medical doctrine were found in logistics, evacuation, hospital design, staffing, and prolonged field care. Conclusions: It is recommended doctrine be established that educates on makeshift ward construction, how a Battalion Aid Station (BAS) can hold >40 patients while executing split operations, and how an Forward Surgical and Resuscitation Team (FRST) may assist multiple entrenched BASs. Rotary aircraft will play a vital patient evacuation role given operational flexibility. Redundant supply and treatment facilities should be used in a guerrilla posture.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 30, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1077565
Entities
People
- M. T. Colesar
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences