TRANSPORTING CASUALTIES

A railroad ran from Oran through Tlemcen, then on to Casablanca.  When battle casualties arrived at the airport in Oran from the Tunisian Campaign, either by auto conveyance or by air (C47 transports), some were loaded on trains, and when they arrived at Tlemcen, our staff went to check the patients.  Anyone who needed more then 6 weeks hospitalization was left on the train which then continued to Casablanca.  From there they were sent back to the States.  Our men had these long rides under very primitive conditions.   Helicopters were not in the military inventory as yet.

 
  TLEMCEN ENVIRONS

This picture was taken from the top of a mountain near Tlemcen. Some members of the unit took advantage of the hiking trails in the area

The surrounding areas were comprised of small garden type farms which brought produce into town.  After we were there a short time, our mess hall officials purchased various items for our meals; this was mostly fruits and vegetables (we had none of these in our "pipeline").  These farmers hauled away our leftovers, garbage, fats, etc., which they used mostly for fertilizer.   The hotel below was right in the center of town.

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