AMERICAN METHODS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25427, 7 January 1944, Page 4

AMERICAN METHODS

PACIFIC BATTLE AREAS INFORMALITY AND EFFICIENCY (0.C.) BOUGAINVILLE, Dec. 27. While towns and cities far removed from enemy bases have nightly blackouts, in the danger zone this precaution may be forgone. The fact is that the closer the troops get to combat the more practical are the methods used. In addition, there is less red tape in regard to procuring supplies. The use of lights at night in headquarters areas within a mile of the front line here bears out this statement. Naturally this privilege bears with it the obligation, readily accepted by veteran troops, immediately to put out flash lights and lanterns at the weird warning of the air raid siren. Then all is quiet and dark until “all clear” is sounded and the lights reappear. It is not drill so much as the realisation that visible lights will result in the loosening of aerial bombs in their direction. A visit to the 37th United States Army Division on Bougainville shows informality allied to efficiency. When supplies are needed a verbal request is all that is necessary. Many copies of a request, as demanded in the rear, are not required. Hitch-hiking is a common practice. Everyone, from general to private, will stop along the road and give you a lift. In training areas stranger? in a mess line are viewed with suspicion, but here if you happen to be away from your kitchen at mealtime you can get a dinner at any one of the numerous messes.