Surgical Experiences in South Africa, 1899-1900: Being Mainly a Clinical Study of the Nature and Effects of Injuries Produced by Bullets of Small CalibreMakins, George Henry
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Surgical Experiences in South Africa, 1899-1900: Being Mainly a Clinical Study of the Nature and Effects of Injuries Produced by Bullets of Small Calibre
Makins, George Henry
Gunshot wounds; South African War, 1899-1902; Surgery, Military
The mule- or buck-wagon, which is of the same class but smaller, can
only accommodate two stretchers, four lying-down men without stretchers,
or 12-14 sitting-up cases. As a rule, the wagons were loaded with
recumbent cases in the centre, while more slightly wounded men sat
around, and were able to give help to those lying down when needed. The
wagons can be covered with canvas throughout.
The steady even pace of the oxen is a great advantage, and I was often
surprised to see how well men bore transport in these wagons, who seemed
utterly unfit to be moved had it not been an absolute necessity. A very
large number of the wounded from Paardeberg Drift were transported to
Modder River in them.
One other advantage of these wagons, the possibility of converting them
into an excellent laager, is not to be underrated. Any one who saw the
comfortable encampment which a naval contingent on the march made by
massing the wagons with intervals covered by macintosh sheets, could at
once appreciate their capabilities for a long trek.
Traction engines were, as far as I know, never employed as a means of
transporting the sick. The tendency of these heavy machines to stick in
the mud and to break down bridges is so well known that it hardly needs
mention. Putting these disadvantages on one side, with a supply of fuel
ensured, and such roads as are afforded by a civilised country, a great
future is probably before this means of transport for the wounded. A
large number of patients might be carried at an even pace, and the camps
would be saved all the trouble and worry of the transport animals.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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