US Marine Corps Tank Crewman 1965–70

Like the infantry, tank crews spent a great deal of time in isolated positions. This meant that meals consisted largely of a monotonous succession of canned C-rations. ""C""s came in 22lb (10kg) cardboard crates of 12 meals, a mix of several menus. A typical meal, individually boxed, centered about a canned entrée - spaghetti and meatballs, ham and lima beans, scrambled eggs with ham, spiced beef, pork steak, beans and franks, chicken and noodles, turkey loaf, or sliced beef. Although individuals had their own preferences, certain of the entrées were widely detested - ham and lima beans for its tendency to induce flatulence, and ham and eggs for the soggy texture. Each package included canned bread crisps (""John Wayne crackers""), and a packet of condiments. A sweet was provided in the form of canned fruit (typically peaches, apricots, or mixed fruit) or canned pound cake (a heavy, buttery confection). Canned apricots were banned in the 3d Tank Battalion because superstition held that they caused mechanical breakdowns. Other items included small cans of cheese spread, jellies, and grainy peanut butter.