08-14-2005, 05:40 PM
TO/E is the authorized strength. the reality is: There were replacements for KIA only. The WIA/hospital count were returnables and counted against squad strength.
Enlited men (EM) were so short in INfantry Divisions that the weapons platttoon was always short, maybe one section of mortar and one section for MG. Even when you were headed for an invasion.
Company grade Officers were not available in most Rifle companies. Their casuallties were heavier than EM losses. 3rd Bn. 141 held officer in Bn. Hqs CPand sent them out when the going got rough, many times not knowing what the true situation was. Thus raising their losses.