The detritius of war

The detritus of total war in Italy, 1943-1944:
A General shoots a man’s mule because it blocks a bridge in the path of march.

A herd of goats is used to clear minefields.

Local pigs, sheep and cows are slaughtered by a retreating army, rendering them useless to advancing troops.

Cats and dogs are consumed.

Soldiers heave dead sheep into the wells.

Gunners calculate that $25,000 in artillery shells is spent for each enemy soldier killed.

One casualty is suffered for every 2 yards.

A surgeon carries a hacksaw and a canvas bucket for amputated limbs.

200,000 shells in 2 days; 11 tons a minute are lobbed at targets.

A lieutenant disemboweled by grenade fragments repeats the name "Erika" ...then dies at dawn.

Condoms keep rain out of rifle barrels.

Mobile shower units visit troops on the battlefield.

Officers provide themselves with cognac and flowers.

A General’s party features wine, fresh meat, a grand piano and Italian musicians.
Incongruities win; combatants and civilians lose.