The First World War

I portray a field dressing station or an advanced dressing station 3rd in line on the route of evacuation and before a main dressing station. I would deal with the following: reanimation, transfusions (includes a repro transfusion system late 1917 and the only one I am aware of within the u.k.) x-rays, bandaging and collection of weapons and ammo from wounded, minor surgical operations should life be threatened by injury or complications.

RAMC Captain Nick Walsh taking the personal details of a gas casualty

Amongst the obvious duties in caring for the wounded the RAMC would also be involved in surveys with the engineers when planning camps and medical facilities, we would also check local water supplies and grade accordingly, as well as the day to day health of the personnel from all branches of the division (like a civilian G.P) other duties would be to insure the average tommy has a high standard of personal hygiene and regular lectures on first aid and emergency situations the fighting soldier may encounter. also could provide temporary medical and welfare assistance to the local civilian population until they can set up their own facilities.

Care of prisoners of war was also of high importance.

My display for 2007 will consist of a medical/surgical tent and a ward tent displaying many items of original kit and hopefully can carry out minor role playing displays such as sick parades, medicals etc. as well as dealing with the wounded (if I can recruit sufficient number).

Kit Required for Participation with Blood & Bullets WW1 Display