Lumber: A Vital Commodity in Support of Our Military Forces

Lumber plays such a vital role in the needs of our military forces that a special agency of the Department of Defense is designated for the sole purpose of procuring lumber and wood products for the services. The responsibilities of this agency as well as the present requirements of our military forces for lumber and related basic wood materials are outlined. In 1965 the military purchase of wood products was $26.1 million. In 1966 it rose to $67.2 million, in 1967 it was $96.3 million, and in 1968 it was $120 million. The largest requirements are for construction grades of materials. A multitude of other items are purchased and furnished to the military services, such as bending oak for ship and boat construction and white ash for such items as companion ways and ladder sides. Oak is also required for ship planking, blocking, support of heavy machinery, etc. Soft pine is needed for template and pattern stock. Other items include deck plugs, wedges, stakes, railroad ties, turning squares, and millwork.

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