ABOUT Quartermaster Corps
- Oldest U.S. Logistics Branch: The U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps was established on June 16, 1775, making it one of the oldest branches in the Army, created just days after the Continental Army itself.
- George Washington's Quartermaster: The first Quartermaster General was Thomas Mifflin, appointed by George Washington to help organize and supply the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
- Supplying the Lewis and Clark Expedition: The Quartermaster Corps played a key role in equipping and supplying the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804–1806).
- Civil War Innovations: During the American Civil War, the Corps introduced standardized uniforms and improved supply depots, which greatly enhanced Union Army effectiveness.
- Mule Power: For much of its early history, the Corps relied on mules for transport. The Army Quartermaster School at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, even had a “Mule Packing School.”
- First Military Laundry: The Quartermaster Corps established the Army’s first field laundry units during World War I, revolutionizing hygiene and disease prevention in the trenches.
- Graves Registration Service: The Corps has solemn responsibilities, including the Graves Registration Service, which ensures the dignified recovery and identification of fallen soldiers.
- Innovators of Modern Airdrop: The Quartermaster Corps developed and perfected parachute airdrop techniques to supply troops behind enemy lines, first used extensively during World War II.
- “First In, Last Out” Motto: Quartermasters are often the first to arrive and the last to leave in military operations, ensuring troops are supplied and supported at every stage.
- Distinctive Insignia: The Corps’ insignia features a golden eagle perched on a wheel, symbolizing transportation and supply, and a key, representing control of military stores.