Food: The Greatest Weapon of All

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In President Roosevelt’s speech to Congress on October 31, 1943 he said “Food is as important as any other weapon in the successful prosecution of the war. It will be equally important in rehabilitation and relief in the liberated areas, and in shaping the peace that is to come" (Thomas). While The United States was able to over produce foodstuffs to help its Allies, Germany and Japan had many problems feeding its soldiers and citizens. The United States was able to sufficiently feed its troops while on the move. The United States was able to triumph over Germany and Japan in the Second World War through its ability to ration and distribute food to the soldiers overseas, as well as to citizens on the home front. The United States kept their fighting force moving through their use of high calorie meals and the ease to prepare them. The United States Department of Agriculture researched the use of long-lasting meals by taking advantage of dehydration and freeze drying plants (Thomas). As a result the USDA came up with five specifically designed rations to eat in the field (United States Military Ration). First, they had the A-rations and B-rations which were the most treasured; they were made in kitchens and consisted of fresh or canned foods. The C-ration was a previously cooked meal that was ready to be consumed. Also, the United States soldiers carried K-rations, which were used in combat situations and had 2,830 calories, but were only to be eaten for short durations. The K-ration also carried cigarettes, chewing gum, and instant coffee (Nash). Lastly, the D-ration, which was called the emergency ration, provided high calorie content with things like chocolate (United States Military Ration). In the each of the rat... ... middle of paper ... ...I>. "United States Military Ration." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Web. 17 Nov. 2013. . "Victory Garden." Wikipedia. Wikimedia. Web. 17 Nov. 2013. . Wiegand, Steve. "U.S. Economy and Industry during World War II." For Dummies. Dummies. Web. 17 Nov. 2013. . "World War Two’s Effect on the German Home Front." World War II Diaries. Wordpress.com. Web. 17 Nov. 2013. . Zimmerman, Dwight. "Defense Media Network." Defense Media Network A War Won With Spam and a Few Other Things Comments. Web. 17 Nov. 2013. .

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