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.