GUM (Chewing Gum, K-Ration Component)


SELF MADE

Gum was a typical component of K Rations . It was widely spread among military personnel, and still is a very popular element . We therefore opted to recreate (fairly easy) the single stick items . (our models are based on genuine period items, we just scanned the external wrappers, purchased current gum, and further either used the inner aluminum foil or replaced same with current issue, this item is edible too)
MATCHBOOKS (K-Ration Component)


SELF MADE

Matches were another widespread item - some were components of Field Rations, others were sold and/or distributed within the War Bonds campaigns, offered by the American Red Cross, or sold at the local Base PX .
We therefore elected to recreate some of these for our WWII re-enactment activities . (our models are based on genuine period items, we just scanned the covers, recuperated current matches (from matchbooks distributed by a major bank), glued the striker, stapled it all, and that's it ! perfectly usable)

CIGARETTES (K-Ration Component)



SELF MADE

A favorite component of the K Rations, this item is fairly easy to recreate . Of course some brand names are less colorful, while others are more difficult to make . This Ration item usually included 4 cigarettes in a rectangular-shaped box, all wrapped in cellophane . (our models are based on genuine period items, we scanned the covers, purchased current cigarettes, shortened them to the correct size, and packed them accordingly ! you can enjoy a real smoke)
COVER, HOOD, VEHICLE (Geneva Convention)


SELF MADE

In order to provide for extra identification, personnel belonging to the Medical Detachment or regular members of a Medical unit often added Covers with Geneva Convention symbol on the hood of their vehicles - this extra Geneva Convention identification was usually made at unit level . This rectangular cover (destined for a ¼ Ton Truck, aka Jeep) is overall white cotton cloth (approximate dimensions 24 ½" x 36") with a centered red cross (dimensions 6" x 18") . It is fastened with 4 narrow white ties . (our model is based on period photographs)
FLAG, AMBULANCE AND MARKER (Geneva Convention)


SELF MADE

This Marker or Flag is primarily used to provide identification for trucks transporting patients and/or casualties, e.g. Ambulances (and possibly other vehicles used for this purpose) . The flag consists of a white field (dimensions 18" x 27") with a centered red cross (4" x 12") and is fastened to a wooden flagstaff (length 47 ½") . This item can be used to distinguish not only vehicles but also installations protected by the Geneva Convention . (our model is based on period specifications)