The Army tested newly inducted soldiers and assigned them to clerical, technical, or infantry positions. Most men, including Leo Conrad, went to boot camp for basic training. At camp, soldiers received a gas mask, rifle, bayonet, and clothing. Recruits learned how to march, salute, pitch a tent, shoot a rifle, cut through barbed wire, dig a foxhole, and throw a grenade.

Recruits also learned how to maneuver through obstacle courses. They crawled through wooden boxes, climbed rope walls, and swung from bars. The stress and difficulty of training helped establish a sense of loyalty and trust among troops.

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Leo Conrad (far left) and friends crawl through wooden boxes at Camp Hood, Texas, circa 1942
Courtesy of Jan Schubring

Conrad went to Camp Hood for basic training. The Army ran 242 training centers around the country.

Leo Conrad's friends climb a wooden wall, circa 1943
Courtesy of Jan Schubring

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