It was also recommended that a quantity of mukluks (Larane 

 Shoe Corp., Contract No. 155-QM-15830) equal to 150 percent 

 of complement should be on board to be used for both watch 

 standers and beach parties in subzero temperatures. It was found 

 desirable that an allowance of 100 pneumatic sleeping bags (Air 

 Force No. 8300-597100 SPE 3187A Order No. 45.2446-PF New 

 York Rubber Co.) be provided for future winter operations. The 

 purpose of the pneumatic bag is not for comfort, but to raise 

 the sleeping bag above the snow enough to keep it from becoming 

 wet or damp from snow melting due to body heat. 



ISSUING SPECIAL CLOTHING 



The procurement, issuing, and storing of special clothing both 

 on shipboard and at shore based installations is of primary im- 

 portance. Experience gained during past cold weather opera- 

 tions reveals that shipboard fitting and issue procedure has been 

 complicated by the lack of adequate space. Sufficient space should 

 be available in an issuing room to allow an inventory of sizes 

 for immediate issue, to eliminate the requirement of issuing in- 

 correct sizes pending the restocking of the issue room. Considera- 

 tion should also be given to the provision of adequate space for 

 the storing of special clothing from the standpoint of drying and 

 keeping it dry. 



In regard to issuing procedure, it is noted that, as a general 

 rule, men do not accurately know their head, waist, chest, foot, 

 and other body sizes. Therefore, the expedient of issuing gar- 

 ments on this basis is unsatisfactory. Further, fitting an indi- 

 vidual satisfactorily with one garment and then issuing additional 

 garments of the same size marking is unreliable, in view of the 

 difference in garments by various manufacturers for the same 

 size number. 



The desirable method of issue would be a fitting stage, followed 

 by an immediate issue of the same garment and later by an in- 

 spection of all personnel by division officers, to insure proper fit- 

 tings. This method will involve large available stocks at one 

 location and adequate space for fitting and issue. Close coopera- 

 tion will be required by the ship's supply section and supply 

 activity to satisfactorily handle the matter of properly outfitting 

 ship personnel. Once fitted, men should be advised of correct 

 sizes and this information noted in service records. 



174 



