Engineering Operations on Advanced Bases
Abstract
In all the theaters of operations on our far-flung battle lines, enemy forces are being driven back and new bases are being established for our front-line forces. Many problems arise in developing these bases. Some of the problems are more or less common to all advance bases, while others are peculiar to particular locations and conditions. Many different methods, some better than others, are used to solve common problems. The detailed knowledge of how particular problems have been solved in certain bases is often of great value to officials in other bases. This article, covering engineering problems encountered in some forward Southwest Pacific bases, is written in an attempt to pass on some useful information and also to encourage discussions on this vital subject. The Engineering considerations needed to insure the success of forward base operations are: 1. Careful advance planning. 2. Thorough knowledge of terrain secured by personal reconnaissance and by stereoscopic study of aerial photographs. 3. Properly located and constructed base facilities such as airdromes, roads, wharves, bridges, water-supply installations, storage facilities, staging areas, et cetera. 4. A comprehensive, continually followed up plan for drainage. 5. An adequate and qualified engineer supervisory staff making day and night inspections of essential construction and maintenance work. 6. Knowledge of the overall needs of all branches of the Service, and continuous contact with these Services, to understand and plan in advance to meet changing situations. 7. Consolidation of base facilities so as to have economy of time, space, and effort. This is especially important in the closing up stages of a base when there is a scarcity of labor including prisoners, natives, and casual labor so that the withdrawal of engineer troops to new forward bases will not disrupt operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA560266
Entities
People
- Albert L. Lane
Organizations
- United States Army Engineer School