6-2.
REMOVING CASUALTIES FROM AN M1 TANK
The procedures for removing casualties from the interior of an M1 tank by a
medic (yourself) and one or more other soldiers (rescuers) are given below. Give the
other soldiers instructions as needed. If members of the tank crew are able, have them
assist in opening hatches and removing casualties from the tank. If you are the only
rescuer available, use pistol belts or similar devices to lift the casualties from the tank.
a. Try to contact the crew. Bang on the side with a rock, for example.
b. Block the tank's track to prevent accidental movement. This can be
accomplished by placing a small log inside the track.
c. Mount the tank from the front of the tank's left side. (This is the safest area
and allows the tank crew to see you). Consider all weapons to be armed. Do not move
in front of any weapons or touch any of the antennas. Have the other soldiers
(rescuers) mount the tank in the same manner.
d. If the commander's hatch is popped up but not open, reach inside the hatch
and pull the release handle while the rescuers pull on the hatch to open it.
e. If the tank commander is injured and in his seat, reach in and grab the tank
commander under his armpits. If possible, you should take one arm and have a rescuer
take another arm. You may need to use pistol belts (similar to a pistol belt drag) to
remove the soldier. Lift the commander out through the hatch and lay him on the turret.
f. Quickly examine the commander and render any necessary lifesaving care or
have one of the rescuers administer the care if time permits.
g. Enter the tank through the commander's hatch. (You could not do this
previously because the commander's body blocked your entry).
h. Put the main gun on safe. (The greatest dangers to yourself and the
casualties are movement and firing of the main gun.)
i.
If the tank is running:
(1)
Make sure the loader and the gunner is clear of the turret ring.
(2)
Warn the rescuers that you are going to transverse the turret.
(3) Rotate the turret using the electrical controls or manual crank until the
opening to the driver's compartment is fully exposed.
MD0001
6-3