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Transcription
Douglas E. Gill
1964
3
distressing to say the least, for selection of essential gear by such
incompetents could easily lead to disaster during the field trip.
Fortunately there was nothing too seriously forgotten in our purchases,
and we survived the two-month expedition without too much unnecessary
discomfort. I would strongly recommend that in future planning clothing
sizes for the personnel should be obtained among the many forms that had
to be filled but after acceptance of position, and that orders of the
necessary clothing could be placed with the frequented shops prior to
said personnel arrival at Washington. Let experienced people (leaders,
etc.) make the decision of what gear is essential and which is not,
not inexperienced incompetents.
Two caps with adequate brims are recommended. Khaki "fatigue"
caps were excellent, for they withstood a great deal of wear. The
six long-sleeve work shirts (Khaki) and six pairs of Khaki trousers
were adequate. The same number and style of previous purchases are
recommended. A pocket on each side of the shirt is helpful and preferred.
The foot long front pockets of the trousers were advantageous. Twelve
pairs of woolen socks were adequate, but I wonder if cotton socks might
be more comfortable. There was no real discomfort due to heat or any-
thing else by the woollens and indeed they showed little wear. It is
possible cotton socks would wear too fast under such arduous conditons.
Three pairs of tennis shoes is recommended; although the tennis shoes of
some of the others were totally dilapidated at the end of the trip. My
two pair (Inever used my third) were in fairly good conditon by the end.
Shoe laces go quickly in the salt water and all extra sets (2 perhaps)
of long shoelaces for high tennis shoes is recommended. I definitely