The whole
system rests on the question of mobilization, meaning the ability to
arm, transport, clothe. and feed a fighting force of four and
one-half million men, in the shortest possible time on any given point
in either eastern or western Europe. For let it be clearly understood
that the main point of the training of the German armies is the
readiness to launch the entire fighting force like a thunderbolt on
any given point of the compass. Germany knows through past experience
the advisability and necessity of conducting war in an enemy's
country. The German army is built for aggression. There are four
main groups:
1. Organization.
2. Transportation.
3. Victualization.
4. Intelligence.
Each of these groups is, of course, subdivided into numerous branches
which we shall go into under each individual head.
ORGANIZATION
First comes organization. The German army is composed of three
distinct parts: the standing army, the reserves, and Landwehr.
The standing arm comprises 790,000 officers and men. This body of men
is ready at an instant. It is the reserves who need an elaborate
system of mobilization. The reserves are divided into two classes,
first and second reserves. So is the Landwehr, having two levies--the
first and second Aufgebot. Every able-bodied man on reaching the age
of twenty-one can be called upon to serve the colors.
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