14-357 Garand Picture of the Day

[Mark in Rochester]

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[Paul S.]

That picture illustrates why not to be a mortar crewman. You get to carry the same stuff as everyone else AND an extra helping of some bulky heavy stuff.

[browningautorifle]

I was a mortar man for a while on 81mm. We carried submachine guns. Plus all the other stuff.

[emmagee1917]

Yep . First guy has the 81MM tube , next has the baseplate , third has the bipod over his shoulder and either the cleaning rod or aiming stakes in his left hand . Short 4th guy I think has the sight . Rest look to have M2 vests with bombs . One has a triangle gismo in his hand .... shovel maybe ?
Chris

[Paul S.]

The only thing I see resembling a 'triangle gizmo' is what appears to be an M1 Carbine and a loop of sling in the right hand of the bloke behind the short bloke.

[emmagee1917]

Yep , that's what it is .
Chris

[rayg]

Back in the day I was in, post Civil War, Lol, I was in the heavy weapons platoon and was in the 60 mortar section. There were two smaller guys, Twins from Tenn., about 5' -5-6", 140lbs or so each, that carried the old 57 recoilless rifles on their shoulders and they would keep up if not out do every one else on marches over hills and dales. And those things were not light. Ray

[emmagee1917]

Only 45 lbs , not counting the optional M1917A1 tripod.
Chris

[rayg]

Almost 1/3 their weight, plus all their own equipment, canteen, belt, pistol etc..