THE ROLE OF FORWARD MEDICAL SUPPORT IN HANDLING MASSES OF CASUALTIES IN ACTIVE NUCLEAR WARFARE
Some facts and opinions are presented relative to the operational problem of handling situations wherein masses of casualties occur on the nuclear battlefield. To visualize this problem, a situation is assumed in which a battle group is inactivated by a nuclear weapon and initially a maximum number of living casualties would result. A hypothetical situation is envisaged in which a 20-kt nuclear weapon is detonated in an air burst near the center of formation of an infantry division deployed under combat conditions. The extent of casualties and their routing through medical units are discussed in detail. The medical and tactical considerations are outlined together with the advantages and disadvantages of each course of action. It was concluded that under the conditions of active nuclear warfare, situations resulting in masses of casualties can be anticipated. (TCO)
- Research Organization:
- Office of the Surgeon General, Washington, D.C.
- NSA Number:
- NSA-17-017678
- OSTI ID:
- 4739273
- Journal Information:
- Military Med., Journal Name: Military Med. Vol. Vol: 127
- Country of Publication:
- Country unknown/Code not available
- Language:
- English
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