First Aid For Soldiers Field Manual

First Aid For Soldiers Field Manual

This is FM 21-11, the U.S. Army's core doctrine on battlefield first aid, first published in 1943 and revised repeatedly over the following decades as medical practice evolved. It was written to teach soldiers what to do for themselves or a fellow soldier when no medic is nearby, since the minutes before medical personnel arrive are often the ones that determine the outcome.

It covers opening an airway and restoring breathing, stopping bleeding, preventing shock, splinting fractures, and handling common field emergencies, along with a rundown of what's actually in a standard-issue first aid kit. It's heavily illustrated throughout, running 158 pages in this edition.

This is a historical and educational reference. It is not a substitute for real medical training or certification.

The Short & Sweet:

• Field Manual 21-11, U.S. Army first aid doctrine
• First published 1943, revised repeatedly since
• Covers airway/breathing, bleeding, shock, fractures, and common emergencies
• Illustrated softcover, 158 pages
• Historical reference; not a substitute for medical training