United States Navy medical department 
Administrat ive History 1941-45 
Volume II Chapters VIII^C 
Organization And Administration CHAPTER VIII 
NAVY HOSPITALS 
Section 1 State of Preparedness,on 7 December 19lfL 
The opening of hostilities on 7 December 19ill found the 
Navy Medical Department better prepared for a wartime situation than 
at the commencement of any previous conflict in the history of the 
United States. The national preparedness program had afforded the 
Bureau of Medicine and Surgery an opportunity to project its plan- 
ning and to establish additional installations to meet the expected 
patient load rise due to increase in the personnel and casualties 
resulting from possible armed conflict.'1' Despite the fact that a 
firm basis had been formed, the influx of the recruits resulting 
from the preparedness program had already resulted in a rapidly 
mounting patient load. At the time of Pearl Harbor the hospitals 
were able to cope with the situation, and as a result of the ex- 
pansion of plans previously made, were able to absorb the shock 
of the war emergency by using new units coming into commission. 
At the beginning of the 'Jar there were 18 continental 
hospitals in commission. These institutions had an authorized bed 
capacity, on eight-foot centers, of 8,1|37 and were actually caring 
for 7,338 patients on the day of the Japanese attack. Of these, some 
1. Annual Sanitary Reports for 1939> 19 UO, 19Ul. 
1 p ■ ■ ’> 
1* 1+1+1 were supernumaries. This classification included the depen- 
dents of naval personnel, retired officers and men, and patients 
cared for under arrangement with the Veterans' Administration. This 
left a total of 6,11? patients from regular naval personnel on active 
service. At the time of Pearl Harbor, the size of the naval es- 
tablishment was Navy 323,095j Marine Corps 70,1+75; Coast Guard 
25,002—a total of 1+20,572 service personnel who were potential 
3 
patients." This gave a ratio of one authorized hospital bed for 
approximately 50 patients. The above figure does not take into 
account the hospital potentiality for supernumaries—-which cannot 
be accurately estimated. The size of the existing patient load in 
continental hospitals left, in terms of 8-foot centers, only 879 
beds available for the wartime casualties, a margin much too low 
even if there had not been the anticipated expansion of naval personnel.^ 
2. Unless otherwise indicated, all statistical information on bed 
capacity and patient load arc taken from tabulated forms in the 
Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. The particular information re- 
ferred to in this instance is taken from: Memorandum, for 
Chief, Administration Division, F. R. Lang, Chief, Medical 
Statistics Division, 22 Jan. 191+6. 
3. Our Navy At War, Official Report Concerning Combat Operations 
U£ to 1 March 191+1+, Adm. E. J. King, p. 13- 
1+. The standard practice is to have beds in United States naval 
hospitals arranged with an interval of 8 feet between bed centers. 
This is the optimum condition and the number of beds at this 
interval at any given hospital is known as its authorized capa- 
city. In actual practice, especially during wartime, this does 
not pertain and hospitals very frequently carry a patient load 
considerably in excess of their authorized capacity. The in- 
crease is achieved by several regularly employed practices. The 
beds can be moved to a basis of 6 feet centers which increases 
the bed capacity more than half. In wards where ambulatory patients 
are housed, installation of double deck bunks doubles'the'capacity. 
Usually a combination of those two are used. In cases of extreme 
emergency, additional beds are set up in the aisles and quiet rooms. 
By these devices a hospital could care for more than twice its 
authorized capacity. The continental naval hospitals at the time of the v/ar»s 
beginning were on sites whose geographical locations had been 
dictated primarily by historical rather than by current or future 
needs. Most of the hospital construction undertaken under the 
preparedness program immediately preceding the outbreak of the War 
had been placed to give ready service to the rapidly expanding Navy 
training program. With the exception of Jacksonville* Corpus Christi, 
and Quantico* added in 19lil* all of the naval hospitals had served 
during World War I and several had service records for five previous 
6 
wars. in the location of these hospitals* the first consideration 
had been their ability to serve the Fleet. As a result* most of the 
hospitals in existence were placed in positions which were designed 
to serve a Fleet whose major theatre of activity was in the Atlantic 
Ocean. The hospitals were located chiefly in such port cities as 
Boston* Brooklyn* and Philadelphia. These cities had grown in size 
with the passage of years and frequently the hospitals were found 
in the midst of a busy industrial or business environment with its 
7 
resulting noise* smoke and confusion. 
On the eastern coast were located the preponderant number 
of naval hospitals—12 of the 18 then in commission. This condition 
was the natural result of the fact that during our history most naval 
5. Louis H. Roddis* A Short History of Nautical Medicine* pp. 2^2-300. 
6. Ibid. 
7. Annual Sanitary Reports* 19k5, Cunulativc Histories; in particular* 
note pictures of Brooklyn* Great Lakes* and the plat for Chelsea* 
given in Appendix K. 
3 activity has been based in this area. The hospitals located in the 
East included U. S. Naval Hospitals in Portsmouth, New Hampshire', 
Chelsea, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; Brooklyn, New York', 
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Portsmouth, Virginia; Washington, Dis- 
trict of Columbia; and Charleston, South Carolina. These institu- 
tions are all primarily designed to support operating bases, Navy 
yards, the training program, and Fleet activities. On the West 
Coast, serving similar types of activities, were the U. S. Naval 
Hospitals in Bremerton, Washington; Marc Island, California; and 
San Diego, California. All of these hospitals had been located as 
permanent installations to serve the peacetime activities of naval 
operation. With the increased tempo of the preparedness program, 
the training facilities of the Navy sea and air establishments had 
taken on new importance. As a result, medical facilities serving 
the training program were the first to feel the need of expansion. 
The dispensary at Marine Barracks, Ouantico, was replaced by the 
U. 5. Naval Hospital, Quantico, Virginia. At three naval air train- 
ing centers the facilities were increased. New institutions were 
designated and established as U. S. Naval Hospital, Corpus Christi, 
Texas, and U. S. Naval Hospital, Jacksonville, Florida, while a new 
building was being constructed at Pensacola, Florida. In addition 
to these four, there were other units exclusively serving training 
activities of the Navy and Marine Corps. These were the U. S. Naval 
Hospitals in Great Lakes, Illinois; Parris Island, South Carolina; 
and Annapolis, Maryland, The patient loads at these hospitals had 
h O’ 
increased markedly during this period. 
The hospitals in the eastern part of the nation contained 
a stated bed capacity of 6,121 while the actual patient load was 
5,037. This allowed an expansion of only 1,08U beds with the stan- 
dard eight-foot centers. On the 'Jest Coast the stated capacity was 
2,316 and the patient load was 2,335, leaving no room for expansion 
at optimum conditions and already requiring the invoking of emergency 
9 
procedures. It can safely be concluded that the morbidity of the 
expanded peacetime Navy nearly filled the authorised bed capacity 
of the established naval hospitals, leaving no opportunity for 
expansion to meet the wartime emergency, especially on the 'Jest Coast 
where such expansion would be most needed. 
This difficulty had been recognized by BuMed long before 
Pearl Harbor and, within the limits imposed by the temper of the 
country and the funds available at that time, steps had been taken 
to meet the need. Not only had the three new hospitals been es- 
tablished and significant replacements and additions made as indicated 
above, but other plans and implementation of plans were underway. 
The dispensary at Key 'Test was soon superseded by the U. S. Naval 
Hospital, Key Jest, Florida, which had been in the planning stage 
8. Chapter III in this compilation illustrates this trend in detail. 
Annual Sanitary Report for 1939* 191*0, 191*1, 19l*2j General Files, 
Naval Hospitals 1, 2, 3, k, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, li*, 15, 
28, 30, 32, 6l give data on each of these institutions. 
9. Memorandum for Chief, Administration Division, F. R. Lang, 
Chief, Medical Statistics Division, 22 Jan. 191*6. since early summer and the site chose by 13 August. 0 The U. S. 
Naval Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, was soon trans- 
ferred to Bethesda to become an integral part of the National Naval 
Medical The construction of the physical plant of this 
project was rapidly nearing completion and could afford a considerable 
expansion. The ?50-bod permanent U. S. Naval Hospital, Norfolk, 
12 
Virginia, NOB, was under construction by 15 November 1941. Dis- 
cussions were also underway looking toward the acquisition of the 
Norconian Hotel, located some 30 miles east of Los Angeles, for an 
II 
additional facility on the '.Test Coast. J 
Difficulties encountered by the Navy in new hospital con- 
struction during the period of the national emergency were amply 
illustrated in the construction of the U. S. Naval Hospital, Long 
Beach, California. The selection of the site was complicated by 
the efforts of rival communities to obtain the "prize". The work 
of the Shore Station Development Board and the district medical 
officer hampered by the flood of letters, telegrams, and other means 
designed to influence their decision. The problems of climatic 
10. Annual Sanitary Report for Key Nest, 19 U5, Cumulative History; 
also see General Files, N.H. 11. 
11. Annual Sanitary Report, Bethesda, ±9h5, Cumulative History; 
see also Chapter XI of this compilation for specific details. 
12. Annual Sanitary Report for Norfolk, NOB, 19U3, Cumulative His- 
tory; also sec General Files, N.H. b9• 
13. Joint Letter to Chief of Bulled, Bureau of Yards and Docks, Com- 
mandant 11th Naval District, consideration of Norconian Hotel 
as convalescent center, Luther Sheldon, 21 Nov. 19lNL. 
l!+. See General Correspondence Files, N.H. 36. 
6 conditions, accessability, transportation, sanitation, and utilities 
were difficult questions to resolve; when these were further compli- 
cated by the factionalims of contending civic groups, the achieve- 
ment of an objective result is extremely difficult. In the select- 
ion of a particular site it was frequently found that the owner of 
the property desired was reluctant to sell or had an inflated mone- 
tae value placed on the site. Some property owners were actively 
♦ 
pressing the advantages of sites they possessed and used many channels 
to convey this information to those charged with the selection of 
the location of the proposed hospital. Occasionally, it rras nec- 
essary to take property by legal action, which was not only time-con- 
suming but engendered a certain amount of local ill will -• a poor 
15 
atmosphere for the intitial ] hase of public relations. Every one 
of these problems was illustrated in the selection of the site of the 
Long Beach hospital. The first concrete was poured for this hospital 
on the day before the bombs dropped on Pearl Harbor. 
The Navy Medical Department had an inadequate hospital 
plant to meet all the problems of the war which opened on 7 December. 
However, the problem was recognized, initial additions had already 
been established, and other units were in the planning stags or 
actually under construction. Although hospital facilities were not 
as extensive as the ®epartment would have preferred, steps had been 
taken to meet the defense program and plans were being made and car- 
ried out to meet the eventuality of war. 
15. This was even more frequently the case with special hospitals where 
established institutions were taken over. Note particularly Gen- 
eral Correspondence Files, N.H. 47, 56, 71, 80, 170. Section 2 Planning 
General Planning Problems 
The Medical Department is responsible for the maintenance 
of the health of the It is the oft repeated slogan of the 
Navy Medical Department that its mission is "To keep as many men at 
as many guns as many days as possible." It is well to consider first 
the exact position of Navy hospitals in the general pattern of the 
Department1s service. 
When any individual in the naval service is sick, wounded, 
or injured, he is entitled to the benefits of medical attendance and 
placed under the care of the medical officer of his command. At 
the dispensary or sick bay he is treated for his sickness or injury. 
This is his right and he remains under such care until he has re- 
covered.*^ 
Many dispensaries have beds and nursing service, and are, 
in effect, small hospitals. In such instances, except for serious 
cases where additional medical or surgical care is needed, the 
18 
patient remains in the dispensary. The medical officer makes a 
daily report to the commandant of all persons who shall be excused 
19 
from duty. This list is referred to as the binnacle list. The 
medical officer also reports in writing every morning to the command- 
20 
ing officer the names and condition of the sick. 
16. Navy Regulations. Article 457. 
17. Navy Regulations« Article 1191. 
18. See Chap. XII in this series. 
19. Navy Regulations. Article 1154? Article 1540* 
20. Navy Regulations. Article 1153* »" * v v p • * 
If the dispensary or sick bay cannot adequately care for 
the patient, he is sent to a naval hospital. This may be done on 
the recommendation of the medical officer, or by a board of medical 
survey, approved b^7- the commanding officer. A hospital ticket, Form 
G, is made out and accompanies the patient until his discharge from 
21 
the hospital. His health record and all other necessary papers 
22 
also accompany him. The naval hospital cares for all sick and 
injured patients transferred to it from activities in the contiguous 
districts, and all other patients from outlying stations in the dis- 
trict, or casualties from overseas which are sent for their care by 
direction of the district medical officer or by higher authority. 
Patients with diseases or injuries which require particular- 
ly specialised care and treatment may be transferred again to hos- 
pitals which specialize in such care. Convalescent patients are 
also transferred to convalescent or special hospitals. These topics 
are more fully dealt with in later sections of this chapter. 
Most planning for activities of the Navy Medical Department 
in general, and U. S. naval hospitals in particular, is based on a 
number of factors over which the Surgeon General has no direct con- 
trol. These are as follows: 
1. The size of the Navy in terms of personnel. The 
expectancy is that approximately 1 to 2 percent 
of the duty personnel will be hospitalized in con- 
21. Navy Regulations. Article 142; Manual of the Navy Medical De- 
partment, par. 3417. 
22. Navy Regulations. Article 1195. tincntal naval hospitals, and this figure direct- 
ly influences the planning for the size of the 
23 
hospital plant needed. 
2. The location of naval activities, shore training 
facilities and bases for fleet and air activities 
strongly influences the location of hospitals. 
3. The general theatres of action, which call for 
hospitals to be built and augmented to care for 
the resulting casualty load. In the late war the 
Pacific facilities were most heavily augmented be- 
cause most naval action was in that theater and 
the casualty load was channeled through Pacific 
Coast hospitals. 
4. As foreknowledge of military action, which is 
likely to produce casualties in great number, had 
been furnished to the Navy Medical Department only 
a very short time before the action took place, 
and in some instances only at the time of action. 
This practice of withholding certain classified in- 
formation seriously hampered planning for the chan- 
neling of casualties. It was not until the spring 
of 19// that the Medical Department was able to 
effect a system whereby this difficulty was miti- 
24 
gated in part. 
23. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 150, 26 Feb. 1945. 
In Nov. 1944 the ratio was 1.58$ and in Feb. 1945 it was 1.92$. 
24. Vice Adm. R. T Me Intire to Capt. T. C. Anderson, Staff CominchPac 
25 Apr. 1944. ' * '-jrJ 
Planning as Revealed by Action 
The office of the Surgeon General is charged with the 
problem of providing for all matters of planning affecting the 
Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. He is the direct representative 
of the Chief of Naval Operations with regard to medical matters in 
25 
all things having to do with preparing the naval forces for war. 
The correspondence files of the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery are 
replete with examples of the work of the Surgeon General in plan- 
ning for the establishment, expansion and equipping of naval hos- 
pitals, as well as the formulation of general plans to meet the 
problems produced by an expanding Navy and the problems of caring 
26 
for the thousands of casualties resulting from the War. 
As has been stated in the previous chapter, the Bureau 
had been laying plans to order its establishment to meet the needs 
of the defense program and the possibility of a two-ocean war. 
Particular attention was already being accorded to training activi- 
ty areas and to building additional facilities on the Pacific Coast. 
With the coming of war, immediate action was taken to 
provide adequate facilities for large numbers of war casualties 
from Pearl Harbor and from other anticipated operations. The policy 
of taking over hotels, sanitariums and schools from civilian management 
25. Annual Report, Chief BuMed, Fiscal Year 1939. 
26. General Files, N.H. Section. and converting them into general or special hospitals was immediately 
inaugurated. Previous to Pearl Harbor, the Bureau had been studying 
this conversion program and the policy was ready for immediate im- 
27 
plementation when the emergency arose. 
Experience proved that this type of facility was well adapt- 
ed to the special or convalescent type hospital but Corona was the 
only general hospital so converted. By the end of the Wer those con- 
verted buildings, with many added temporary facilities, accounted 
for 10,571 patients, or 11 percent of the total patient load of the 
continental hospitals at that time. It should be particularly noted 
that the decision to take over these institutions was not a sudden 
move adopted without consideration previous to the vJar*s beginning. 
The administrative organization of the Planning Division of 
the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery has been discussed in Chapter I of 
this book under nOrganizational History of the Bureau of Medicine and 
Surgery.n Here an endeavor will be made to indicate the results 
achieved by the Navy Medical Department relative to planning and con- 
struction of hospitals rather than to repeat internal organizational 
structure. 
The Design Section of the Division, in cooperation with 
the Hospital Division of the Bureau of Yards and Docks, has evolved 
standard plans of both permanent and temporary buildings for various 
27. Joint Itr. Chief BuMed and Bu Y&D and Commandant 11th Naval Dis- 
trict from Chief BuMed, 21 Nov. 1941, Gen. Correspondence Files, 
N.H. 47. 
12 28 
hospital uses. The Construction Section of the Bureau of Medicine 
and Surgery closely followed the building of each hospital unit. The 
wide use of standard plans and the cooperation of the two bureaus 
in their initiation greatly facilitated the speed with which the 
several hospitals were built. Standard plans led to considerable 
savings in the cost of construction by making possible large lot 
purchases of particular items. Although the plans were uniform, 
materials for construction could be obtained which were most avail- 
able in the locality. Thus along the East Coast cinder-blocks wcosg 
frequently used; throughout the eastern and central part of the nation 
asbestos cement composition siding over wood frame was common, and 
on the T.r est G oast readily available redwood sbeating was used for 
2° 
most temporary structures. 
The Specifications Section was'chiefly concerned with equip- 
ment furnished the hospitals, establishing specifications for type and 
quality. As in the case of the Design Section, this administrative 
unit is fully discussed as to organization in Chapter I of this book. 
Specific Planning Problems 
In any consideration of planning for naval hospitals, it 
is helpful to keep in mind certain official and functional differen- 
tiations between hospital types. The continental hospitals under the 
direction of the Surgeon General are officially classified as a U. S. 
28. See Appendix L for example of detailed plan of building. 
29. See descriptions of specific hospitals in this chr.ptcr. Naval Hospital, which is a general hospital, or a U. S. Naval Special 
Hospital, which is usually a convalescent hospital. In actual fact, 
certain dispensaries have been functioning as small hospitals, but 
will not be so considered in this appraisal. 
The U. S. Naval H-ospitals may specialize in some particular 
field of medicine or surgery, but they do not lose their fundamental 
character as general hospitals. A U. S. Naval Hospital may have as- 
sociated with it, and under its command, an annex for convalescent 
30 
patients. Although in function these annex units are similar to 
special hospitals, they are not so designated and serve as regular 
adjuncts to the larger installations. At certain hospitals associated 
with training activities, the station dispensaries are directly under 
the hospital command, and for administrative purposes are treated 
31 
as annexes. Out-patient clinics and family hospital units are 
also occasionally physically detached from the main hospital compound, 
32 
but for administrative purposes are treated as annexes. 
The U. S. Naval Receiving Hospital, San Francisco, is the 
only continental hospital so designated. Its purpose is to screen, 
classify and route properly to continental hospitals patients evacua- 
ted from overseas. It was origins,lly designated Fleet Hospital No. 
113, but was redesignated as a general hospital. It is more fully 
described later. 
30. Examples are Chelsea (Fenway Annex), Corona (Spadra), Great Lakes 
(Lav/rence and MacIntyre), Mare Island (Napa), Philadelphia 
(Swarthmore), San Diego (Balboa). 
31. See Sanitary Reports for Norfolk and Sampson. 
32. See Sanitary Reports for Memphis, Farragut, Quantico. The scope of the planning activities and the flexibility used 
in achieving results is perhaps best illustrated in a division of the 
types of hospitals on a basis of the medium of construction or acqui- 
sition. Once the extent of patient load was conjectured the specific 
planning to meet the problem was channeled in the following manner: 
1. Permanent hospitals of permanent contruction were 
the great preponderance of facilities available 
upon the outbreak of hostilities. Their condition 
at the War*s outbreak has already been chronicled. 
During the War, a long-range planning program was 
pursued to guarantee adequate facilities for the 
post-war period* Within the limitations of material 
scarcity, new units wore constructed and old facili- 
33 
tics augmented by permanent structures. It had 
been estimated that hospital requirements for Navy 
personnel in the post-war period v/ill be roughly four 
times that required before the War, and the planning 
was keyed to meet this During the emergency 
and war period, seven new permanent hospitals were 
completed or in advanced stages of completion.-^ 
Three hospitals were given new and permanent plants— 
Pensacola, Charleston, and Bethesda (replacing Wash- 
ington). Two others v/ere in the planning stage or 
33. See Physical Plant Section of this chapter. 
34- Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 161, 24 Apr. 1945- 
33. In order of commissioning they were Quantico, Corona, Key West, 
NOB Norfolk, Long Beach, Dublin, Houstin. under construction; Beaufort was scheduled to re- 
place Parris Island and St. Albans to replace 
Brooklyn. Wartime scarcity of materials delayed 
these latter replacements. The pattern of per- 
manent hospitals at the end of the War placed 
1l units on the East Coast and 5 on the West 
Coast, with 2 in the mid-contient area. The 
West Coast facilities were larger and thus the 
disparity of facilities was not as great as the 
numbers might seem to indicate. A new unit for 
the San Francisco area had also been in the plan- 
16 
ning stage since 1943* 
2. Temporary hospitals were built to meet the needs 
of the training program and to provide facilities 
in the shortest possible time for care of war casual- 
ties. Their placement and size bore no direct re- 
lation to planning for the permanent size and dis- 
position of the naval hospital plant. These hospi- 
tals were situated at the training areas they served 
and at points readily accessible to patients being 
brought into the West Coast from combat areas. 
Such hospitals were all housed in temporary structures 
36. Permanent hospitals for the post-war era are, East Coast - 
Annapolis, Beaufort, Bethesda, Charleston, Chelsea, Dublin, Key 
West, New York, NOB Norfolk, Pensacola, Philadelphia, Portsmouth, 
N.H., Quantico, St. Albans; West Coast - Bremerton, Corona, Long 
Beach, Mare Island, San Diego, San Francisco (in planning state); 
Mid-continent - Great Lakes, Houston. of various standard styles. Most common was the 
"I" or "finger” style, frequently referred to as 
'Yl 
the "Bethesda type" and used for war purposes. 
The standard "H"-type building was used almost ex- 
clusively for quarters purposes at temporary instal- 
lations. Soon after the out-break of hostilities, 
the cost of construction was described as follows: 
"The Bureau of Yards and Docks in evaluating per- 
manent and temporary construction for hospital 
facilities, estimate the permanent bed costs at 
$6,000, and in temporary construction the cost per 
38 
bed is approximately $4,000." With costs of labor 
and material increasing, it is interesting to note 
that by careful planning and supervision it was pos- 
sible to build at a figure considerably under this 
39 
: even later in the War. 
3. There was only one instance of the Navy*s taking over 
a civilian institution for general hospital purposes, 
a policy followed more extensively by the Army. This 
hospital was Corona which is a good example of dynamic 
action in making available additional beds in the 
shortest period. The former Norconian Hotel, Lake 
37. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944* Oakland, Long Beach, etc. 
38. Chief of Bureau of Medicine and Surgery to Secretary of the 
Navy, 7 Feb. 1942. 
39. Annual Sanitary Report, Shoemaker, 1945, Cumulative History. Norconian Club, was acquired by the Navy on 9 
December, just two days after Pearl Harbor. The 
possibility of using this establishment for a con- 
valescent center had been under consideration as 
early as 21 November 1941. Immediately after the 
receipt of news of the attack, an arrangment was 
made with the owner for prompt occupancy. The 
President assisted in this matter with his active 
interest and by making immediately available nec- 
essary money from the Emergency Fund. The fact 
that funds for the purchase and remodeling of the 
building were to be taken from this source enabled 
immediate action, which would otherwise have been 
prevented by legal restrictions requiring Congress- 
40 
ional approval. ' U. S. Naval Hospital, Corona, Cali- 
fornia, was officially designated and established on 
16 December. Delay encountered by the Judge Advocate 
General1s office in clearing the title prevented the 
receiving of patients until 24 February 1942. The 
hospital was an innovation which conclusively proved 
its worth in expanding the naval hospitalization 
facilities to cope with an urgent need. It inaug- 
40. JAG, Memorandum to Vice Adm. Ross T Me Inti re, 10 Dec. 1941 • 
18. urated a pattern of expansion which was to be imple- 
mented by the establishment of many convalescent and 
special hospitals. 
4. Civilian hotels, sanitariums- or school establishments 
were converted into special or convalescent annexes* 
to regular hospitals. These annex units were of real 
assistance in relieving the patient load at regular 
hospitals. Such forchandedness in planning made it 
possible for the most advantageus utilization of the 
regular hospital establishments. Examples of these 
were Spadra Annex at Corona, Swarthmore Annex at 
Philadelphia, Balboa Annex at San Diego9 anS Napa Annex 
at Mare Island. 
5. In the latter part of the war period, the Navy was 
able to use Army installations which became avail- 
able when the Army training program decreased as 
Army personnel were sent overseas. The hospital units 
at two former Army camps were utilized by the Navy as 
general hospitals. Fort Eustis, Virginia, became a 
general hospital which served to absorb the load in 
the Norfolk area. Corvallis, the former Army Camp 
Adair, served as an overflow general hospital for the 
13th Naval District and the Pacific Coast area. Cooperation With the Federal Board of Hospitalization 
in Planning for Naval Hospitals 
The Federal Board of Hospitalization was first established 
in 1924. It served to .coordinate federal hospital construction pro- 
grams and advise the Bureau of tho Budget on this subject. nNo por- 
ject for acquisition of additional beds by new construction, major 
alterations, or leasing of or contracting for existing facilities, 
(except to meet temporary seasonal, epidemic, or emergency requirement) 
shall be undertaken by any Federal Agency until it has been submitted 
to and reviewed by the Board as to need and location and type of con- 
struction* 
The Board membership is drawn from the agencies chiefly con- 
42 
cerned and served to bring a greater unity of action. With the com- 
ing of the War, an emergency existed and for the first 18 months after 
Pearl Harbor the Board did not function relative to military installa- 
tions. In May of 1943, the hospital expansion programs of the armed 
forces were again placed under the Board for purposes of coordination. 
From this time on, all major expenditures for hospitalization were 
channeled through the Federal Board of Hospitalization.^ 
Shortly after this directive it was modified uto permit 
41. Budget Circular No. 146, 24 Oct. 1924; Budget Circular No. 281, 
26 June 1930; Budget Circular No. 282, 28 July 1930. 
42. Chairman appointed by Bureau of Budget, members include Commis- 
sioner of Indian Affairs, Director of Bureau of Persons, Surgeon 
General of War Department, Surgeon General of Navy Department, 
Surgeon General of the Public Health Department, Chief of the 
Veterans1 Administration. 
43. Budget Circular No. 419, 7 May 1943. the War and Navy Department to acquire limited hospital facilities 
involving temporary types of construction only and not exceeding 
150 beds for any one project, This modification had two results. 
First, a number of the smaller dispensary units which might hove 
45 
been designated hospitals remained small hospitals in all but name. 
Secondly, it enabled emergency additions of several ”1” or r,Hn wards 
to be ma.de to existing institutions vdthout clearing through the 
Federal Board of Hospitalization, The general result was that ex- 
isting institutions wore expanded rather than establishing new naval 
hospitals. 
Coordination of effort through the Board facilitated the 
integration of the Navy building program with the future needs of the 
Veterans1 Administration, The permanent hospitals at Dublin, Georgia, 
and Houston, Texas, Yjcro so planned as to meet requirements for a 
veterans* facility if after the end of the War it was thought expe- 
dient to use them in whole, or in part, to care for patients under 
the cognizance of the Veterans’ Administration. The taking over of 
unused Army hospital facilities for general hospital purposes was 
followed at Corvallis, Oregon, and Fort Eustis, Virginia; for Special 
Hospitals, Banning, Beaumont, Camp White, Camp Wallace, and Spadra 
Annex. By being a part of this integrated program, the Navy hospital 
program was in a position to avail itself of other government hospital 
facilities more quickly than might have otherwise been the case. 
44. President F. D. Roosevelt to Harold Smith, Director of Budget, 
10 May 1943. 
45. A good example is Miami Hospital, N.H. 84. The Results of Planning 
Planning is best shown in the results. The statistical 
tables in Appendix Q give authorized bed capacity and the actual 
patient load at certain specified periods. During the War, the 
authorized bed capacity of continental regular hospitals increased 
from 8,437 to 64,009. This represents an increase of 753 percent. 
The actual patient load increased from 7,558 to 86,331 which repre- 
16 
sents an increase of 1,142 percent. 
It will be noted that actual patient load is considerably 
above the authorized bed capacity. This condition became true as 
early as 1 January 1944 and continued throughout the War. Scarcity 
of materials for building purposes allowed only the most necessary 
construction. It was only through skilled planning by the Bureau 
that they were able to provide for the rapid development of patient 
load. Hospitals were thus located at ports where fleet units were 
based, centers of training activities, naval construction bases, and 
47 
ports of casualty debarkation. 
The first year of the War found 9 ner; hospitals placed in 
L 8 
commission, 5 of which were on the West Coast. ' At the close of 1942, 
these new hospitals on the West Coast had an authorized bed capacity 
of 3,400 and an actual patient load of 2,862. In addition, plans were 
46. Memorandum for Chief, Administration Division, 22 Jan. 1946. Sta- 
tistical information in this section is taken from tables accom- 
panying this memorandum. 
47. Sec Appendix P. Note the series of maps in the Appendix R illus- 
trating hospital distribution. 
46. See Appendix C for hospitals commissioned. Those on the West 
Coast were Corona, San Francisco, Oakland, Seattle, Long Beach. executed whereby the bed capacity of the three existing hospitals had 
been raised 2,234 and their actual patient load had increased 3,781. 
The total increase of bed capacity on the West Coast was 5,634* and 
49 
the actual patients under care had gone up to 6,643. 
During 1943, hospitals were established at the Farragut, 
Bainbridge, Sampson and Memphis naval training units to afford an 
authorized capacity of 4,532. The Marine training activities at 
New River and Camp Pendleton were served respectively by the New 
River and Santa Margarita Ranch hospitals, which, with the hospital 
units at Quantico and Parris Island, provided 3,920 authorized beds 
and actually cared for 2,578 patients at those Marine activities. 
Santa Margarita Ranch and Shoemaker hospitals were both on the West 
Coast, The St. Albans hospital serving the vital New York area was 
also activated during the year. 
During 19/4, two more hospitals on the West Coast, San 
Leandro and Astoria, were placed in commission to help absorb the 
49. 
New Hospitals 
Rated" Capacity . ' 
Bed. Patients 
Corona 
1,000 
257 
San Francisco 
500 
561 
Oakland 
800 
1,335 
Seattle 
800 
447 
Long Beach 
300 
212 
TOTALS 
3,400 
2,862 
INCREASE 
IN ESTABLISHED HOSPITALS 
Brenerton 
242 
234 
San Diego 
1,576 
2,369 
Mare Island 
416 
1.178 
TOTAL 
2,234 
3,781 
GRAND TOTAL 
5,634 
6,643 patient load increase caused by returning casualties, and in 1945 two 
additional units, Corvallis and San Francisco Receiving Hospital,were 
added. These four units had a combined capacity of 4,291. 
A study of the maps in Appendix R showing the geographical 
distribution of nev: installations as the War progressed illustrates 
the effective results of careful planning throughout the entire war 
period. A study of the sanitary reports confirms the opinion thus 
formed, and although hospitals bore a heavy burden of patients, the 
situation was under control and. new units regularly came into com- 
mission in time to avert a breakdown of the hospitalization program. 
Section. 3. Organization of Naval Hospitals 
The organization of naval hospitals as it existed at the 
beginning of the War is outlined, in the Manual of the Medical Depart- 
ment . The mission of the naval hospital, as there stated, clarifies 
much concerning the formal organization: 
(1) Care of the sick and injured naval personnel with the 
object of their restoration to duty. 
(2) The disposition of those patients who require special 
treatment not satisfactorily available, or who are un- 
fitted for retention in the naval service. 
(3) Treatment of other persons when authorized by competent 
authority. 
(4) Cooperation with the military and civil authorities in all 
sanitary ma.ttcrs. 
The general organization of U. S. naval hospitals conforms 
51 
to the chart included in the Manual of the Medical Department. Be- 
50. Manual of the Medical Department. Chapter 12, par. 1603. 
51. Manual of the Medical Department. par. 1605-B. For examples 
of the charts from the old and revised copies of the Manual, 
see Appendix E. cause of the disparity in size of the hospitals and varying classifi- 
cation of patient types, the actual organization may vary somewhat 
from the model. All of the examples of individual hospital organi- 
zational charts included in Appendix E vary in greater or lesser ex- 
tent, As a general rule, it will be found that the larger the organi- 
52 
zation the greater the resulting variations from the norm. 
Paramount in all naval organization come the responsibilities 
of the commanding officer and his direct representatives. The command- 
ing officer communicates directly Y/ith the Bureau of Medicine and Sur- 
gery upon matters which are of internal or professional interest only. 
Such matters as may affect military policy or relate to other activi- 
ties involving major changes shall be communicated through channels 
to the commandant if the hospital is in a Navy Yard or other group 
command, or through the commandant of the naval district in which it 
is located. Upon the commanding officer falls the task of affecting 
final coordination and the achievement of an effcicient 
He is also the official charged with establishing definitive policies 
and routines. By the nature of his position, he stands as the chief 
representative of the Navy, as well as of the hospital, in the field 
of public relations in all matters affecting his command. The command- 
ing officer is assisted by a number of subordinates in these respon- 
sibilities—the executive officer, the officer of the day, and the 
52. Appendix E includes examples for Annapolis, Jacksonville, Key West, 
Great Lakes, Long Beach, Marc Island, Memphis, NOB Norfolk, Pensa- 
cola, Portsmouth, N.H., St. Albans, Seattle, and Shoemaker. 
53. Navy Regulations. Articles 170, I482, 2038. chief naster-at-arms. Frequently this section of the organizational 
scheme includes the security officer and other members of the head- 
quarters staff'. 
The functional operation of the hospital is divided into 
tv/o general types of duty, administrative and clinical. All profes- 
sional activities are grouped under the clinical, and the many other 
diverse types of activities are assembled under the administrative. 
The clinical services employ the greater portion of the hos- 
pital personnel and are the center of the hospital system; it is to 
serve them and to supplement their activities that all other units arc 
created. The individual organizational charts usually list at least 
eleven service units: surgical, medical, eye, ear, nose and throat, • 
laboratory, urological, neuropsychiatric, X-ray, dental, physical 
therapy, nursing and out-patient. These groupings are often broken 
down into other smaller units in the larger hospitals. The out- 
patient unit nay have the dependents separated; the SENT may be sep- 
arated into the various groups or units of its component parts; phy- 
sical therapy my have occupational therapy separated, and orthopedic 
service may be separated from surgery. Other divisions occur when 
they are deemed expedient. The chiefs of the services arc the senior 
officers attached to these several groups. They are directly responsi- 
ble for the patients under their care and are representing the com- 
manding officer in all matters of his responsibility under their juris- 
diction.^ 
54• Manual of the Mcdicr.l Dopartnent. per. 1663. Under the hec.ds of each service are heads of departments 
within those services. After consultation with the chief of their 
service, they formulate and carry out all administrative rules and 
duties in their department. 
Each ward in the hospital is under the charge of a ward medi- 
cal officer who is in direct charge of that unit and responsible to 
his department head. To him fall the tasks of being in constant touch 
with the patients and overseeing their care* He is also charged with 
the direction of personnel and the oversight of material. 
Junior medical officers and interns not having specific ward 
assignments are assigned duties by the commanding officer such as 
watch officer and such other assignments as may supplement their train- 
ing. Interns are assigned duties furthering their training while in 
service. 
The clinical service in some hospitals, especially smaller 
hospitals, is often divided into two general groups under the chief 
of medicine and the chief of surgery. Under the former will be 
grouped, the laboratories, medical wards, neuropsychiatric ward, dental, 
nursing, and intern training; under the latter will be the operating 
rooms, surgical words, EENT, orthcrpcdic, X-ray, psysiotherapy, and 
urological. The specific duties and activities of the various ser- 
vices will be treated in the section relating to activities of the 
hospitals during the war period, where the account of their work indi- 
cates their functional organization. 
27 An observation on the functions and organization of a naval 
hospital was submitted with the 1945 sanitary report of one of the 
larger hospitals: 
This hospital while following the precepts laid down 
bjr higher authority has what is perhaps a unique organization 
which puts the emphasis not on the Commanding Officer but on 
the principal function of the hospital—the care of the patient. 
The patient, therefore, is depicted as the axle of the wheol. 
The hub is represented by the ward medical officer and his 
organization made up of nurses and hospital corpsmen. This 
ward organization furnishes the means of contact between the 
patient and hospital. This hub, the ward organization, is 
supported by the hospital facilities representing the spokes 
of the wheel, and these spokes—each under its designated 
officer-arc to be utilized as required for the benefit of the 
patient. For example, if the patient*s stomach should be re- 
sected, General Surgery is utilized; if he needs a blood 
study, ihc Laboratory (spoke) does it, and so on for all the 
hospital activities. These activities, under the proper of- 
ficer, are coordinated by the officers heading them, the 
officer of the day, and finally by the Commanding Officer 
(the tire of the wheel) who appropriately is charged with 
outside relations, with contact with the outside.*5 
The diagranatic chart alluded to is found in Appendix E and amply 
illustrates the points made. 
The administrative section of the hospital’s organization 
is so ordered that the routine transaction of hospital business, such 
as preparation of correspondence, records, reports and returns, and 
the orderly filing of documents, may be expedited. All hospitals 
have in some form the following administrative activities: personnel- 
record office, accounting office, commissary, property office, disbur- 
sing office, pharmacy, maintenance department, morale activities, and 
55. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Long Beach, Calif., Cumulative 
History. training activities. In the larger organizations these are greatly 
expanded anc subdivided as is indicated in their organizational charts. 
Under administrative activities are frequently grouped such adjuncts 
to the hospital service as the Red Cross library, athletics, Marine 
guard, civilian guard, post office, ship*s service, brig, chaplain, 
public relations, and those more recent but signally important activi- 
ties of the Rehabilitation Board and all of its many ramifications. 
Procedure for Establishment of Hospitals 
During the War some 31 new U. S. naval hospitals and 15 
special or convalescent hospitals were established. Besides these 
functioning institutions there had been several other projects which 
had reached the planning stage but were not carried out for various 
reasons. In addition, 8 annex units were added to existing hospitals. 
The procedure for establishment followed in a series of care- 
fully integrated steps which occasionally varied, somewhat because of 
individual situations. The following series of actions are not those 
followed in any particular instance but arc typical of the procedure 
followed, and all steps were encountered in several individual instan- 
ces: 
1. The general need for the hospital in a given area was 
determined by the Surgeon General and the Planning Division 
of the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. The district medi- 
cal officer and the inspector of medical department activi- n a 
tics bad in several instances made general or specific 
recommendations as to needs for expansion in the dis- 
trict or area.^ 
2. The Planning Division made a more exact estimate of the 
situation suggesting several specific alternatives of 
location or facilities available. In the early years 
of the War, this was usually more informal than in the 
latter period. 
3. Subsequent to 7 May 1943, all plans for expansion of 
hospital facilities were submitted to the Federal Board 
of Hospitalization for approval* * 
4. The Shore Station Development Board selected the site 
for the proposed installation. 
5. The Bureau of Yards and Docks, Hospital Division, under- 
took the construction of the physical plant. 
6. The Bureau of Medicine and Surgery appointed, soon after 
the construction was started, a "prospective medical of- 
ficer in command" to keep the Bureau informed of progress 
and offer suggestions. 
7. When it became advisable to have other personnel aboard, 
the Bureau requested the establishment of the hospital. 
The hospital was established officially by a SecNav "Cir- 
cular Letter to All Ships and Stations" which was further 
56. Manual of the Medical Department, par. 1102 d and h. published in the Navy Department Bulletin. 
8. Usually accompanying the establishment, but occasionally 
separate, were the designating and giving of official 
mailing address. 
9. With the establishment and designation, a file number 
and an accounting number were assigned to the hospital. 
10. When a station was established and designated, a pay- 
master was assigned, this made possible the assembling 
of a staff in preparation for the commissioning of the 
institution. The personnel officer and supply officer 
were also usually assigned at that time, 
11. When the date was determined that the institution was 
in a position to receive patients, a request was made 
to the Bureau to place the hospital in commission. The 
Bureau granted the request and on the appointed day the 
commissioning took place. Sometimes the ceremony was one 
of considerable dignity and public notice, and in other 
instances it was only the official recognition of the-' 
activation of the institution. Theoretically a hospital 
did not receive patients until it was commissioned, but 
in several instances emergency conditions arose which 
placed it in active service before that date. Conversely, 
a number of hospitals were not able to care of patients un- 
57 
til as much as two months after the date of commissioning. 
57. The material for the above summary is drawn from the case histories 
of the hospitals as revealed in their development in General File, 
N.H. Section 4* Physical Plaint 
In any study of the physical size and features of naval 
hospital establishments, several fundamental conceptions of their 
purpose and function must be kept in mind. There are a number of 
reasonable considerations, which are frequently overlooked, as to 
why patient loads are larger and individuals stay longer in naval 
hospital than in comparable civilian institutions, (l) Every per- 
son in the Navy needing hospitalization receives it within a hos- 
pital and not within his own home as is common for a great number 
of ailments encountered in civilian- life. (2) The Navy patient 
also receives, as a matter of right, the very best of technical aids, 
such as X-ray and laboratory services, which are frequently not en- 
joyed by civilians because of lack of funds to pay for them. Such 
courses of treatment available at naval hospitals also take additional 
tine. (3) Of necessity they remain in the hospital until they are 
fit for regular naval duty, while the sane patient in a civilian 
hospital would usually remain in the institution only while a bed 
patient and then would convalesce at home. (4) A number of naval 
hospital patients are classed as neuropsychia.tric cases and this 
type of patient is not usually found in civilian general type hos- 
/ 
pitals. (5) War casualty cases, who come to military hospitals in 
large numbers and frequently require extended hospitalization, have 
no counterpart of concentration in civilian institutions. (6) Naval hospital care for supernumerary patients accounted for 19 percent of 
the patient load on 7 December and even at the end of the War amounted 
to 4,612 or 5.4 percent. 
Naval hospital establishments have a number of common 
characteristics in their physical pattern. There is usually a cen- 
ter building or group of connected buildings which house the various 
administrative offices, operation rooms, X-rqy, laboratory, and de- 
partmental and divisional office and clinic. The wards and S.O.Q. 
I 
are also usually an integral, physically connected part of this pat- 
tern. In addition, the hospital compound generally includes a num- 
ber of subsidiary structures usually physically separated from the 
main unit and from each other. Examples of such units are officers’ 
quarters, nurses’ quarters, WAVE quarters, corpsnen quarters, and the 
auxiliary buildings such as shops, laundry, garages, storehouses, 
greenhouse, recreation building, and gate houses. 
In a group composed largely of permanent buildings, there 
is a concentration of activities in fewer but larger structures. 
When temporary structures are used, the buildings are individually 
smaller, usually being but one story in height and occupying no more 
ground space than permanent units. 
Hospitals contiguous to metropolitan areas are afforded sev- 
eral advantages by such a location. Facilities such as water, sewage 
disposal, provisioning of fresh vegetables and meat, and fire protect- 
ion are available and preclude the necessity of constructing such units. Entertainment for personnel and convalescent patients in such areas 
is more diverse and readily available. 
On the other hand, hospitals located at a distance from 
large communities have to construct additional facilities such as 
water tanks and pumps, and install larger storage and refrigeration 
units, sewage dispose,1 plants, and more completely equipped recrea- 
tion buildings. In entirely undeveloped areas, housing for civilian 
employees is frequently required. 
An examination of photographs and ground plans of represen- 
tative hospitals such as San Diego and Houston for permanent structures, 
and Farragut and Astoria for temporary, will emphasizo these general- 
izations. 
The construction program included experimentation in new 
types of equipment and building material. Every effort was made to 
cut down noise by acoustical treatment, to use air conditioning in 
operating rooms, and to eliminate statis electricity by insulating 
operating room floors. Of course wartime scarcity cut down the ef- 
fectiveness of this program, but in most permanent hospitals very 
considerable strides in this direction were made.-^ 
During the preparedness period and the War, the Navy com- 
pleted 10 permanent hospital establishments. In order of completion 
58. See Sanitary Reports for Pensacola, Charleston, Dublin, Corona, 
and Key West. ’’They Told Me About Their Hospitals,” Capt. Lucius 
W. Johnson, (MC), USN, United States Medical Bulletin. Apr„ 
1940, vol. 38, No. 2. these were 
Pensacola, Florida 
Quantice, Virginia 
Corona., California 
Charleston, South Carolina. 
B et he sda, Me. r yla. nd 
Key West, Florida 
N.O.B. Norfolk, Virginia 
Long Beach, California 
Dublin, Georgia . 
Houston, Texas 
The plant at St. Albans was delayed by scarcity of materials 
during the War, but with its end, work on the permanent structures was 
again resumed. The Parris Island hospital is to be replaced by a per- 
manent structure in Beaufort. An examination of the physical growth 
of the several hospitals reveals that during the War almost all exist- 
ing permanent institutions were augmented by additional permanent build- 
ings which v.rili increase their efficiency and capacity in the post-war 
period. 
During the war period, permanent hospitals were also enlarged 
by using many temporary buildings to care for the increased load. Al- 
most all permanent hospitals presented a mixed pattern of permanent 
and temporary structures. 
At the close of the War there were 42 general naval hospitals 
in commission. They ranked from San Diego, the largest with an auth- 
orized bed capacity of to Quantico with an authorized bed cap- 
acity of 270. ' During the War the bed capacity for most hospitals 
i 
59. Sec Appendix N. was greatly increased. The actual beds in use were very frequently 
in excess of the established capacity on 8-foot centers. At the 
end of the War, the patient load of 85,345 greatly exceeded the auth- 
orized capacity of 64,009. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Annapolis, Maryland, is associa- 
ted with the U. S. Naval Academy. The hospital is located on a reser- 
vation of approximately 19 acres with an elevation of 45 to 50 feet.^ 
It extended to the Severn River, but war use reduced the section front- 
ing the The location has a pleasant vista. The Annapolis hos- 
pital is one of the few institituions of its class v/hich did not undcr- 
62 
go extensive enlargement following the outbreak of the War. The 
main building had been completed in 1907 and at the beginning of hos- 
tilities there were 16 auxiliary permanent structures and 4 temporary 
buildings. J During the war period one new wing was added and com- 
plete renovation of the existing facilities took Its author- 
ized patient load did not change throughout the War, and it ranked 
forty-first among similar type hospitals at the close of the War. 
U. S. Naval Hospital, Astoria, was commissioned late in 1944 
to relieve the overcrowding in existing establishments in the Thirteenth 
Naval District. Being proud of the uniform climate of that region, the 
sanitary reports note the average temperature does not fall below 42 
degrees. It was recorded that an average rainfall of some 61 inches 
or exceed 57 degrees 
60. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. 
61. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 
62. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
63. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. 
64. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. is experienced and that dense fog is encountered at least ten days 
65 
each year. All of the buildings of this installation were of tem- 
porary construction of the "I", single-story type with asbestos cement 
siding. There were 55 buildings in the compound connected by the cov- 
66 
ered corridors necessary in the climate described. The hospital 
ranked thirty-seventh among naval installations at the end of tho War• 
The large U. S. Naval Training Station, Bainbridge, Maryland, 
made necessary the hospital at that location. It was placed in com- 
mission 4 February 1943. The area of the grounds is 90 acres. During 
67 
the War it grew to 68 buildings including 30 ward buildings. The 
grounds of the hospital were completely cleared while building the new 
station, and considerable soil erosicn resulted. In common with the 
experience of several such wartime developments, a great deal of labor 
was rendered necessary to stabilize the soil and prevent blowing dust*0 
The buildings were of temporary type with an asbestos board exterior. 
Half of the buildings had flat tops with tarpaper covering which per- 
69 
sisted in leaking and required extensive repair and renovation. Six 
of the buildings used for administrative and housing purposes were 
two-storied, of the barracks type. The hospital was nineteenth in 
size among the naval hospitals of the general type. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Bremerton, Washington, is situated- 
on the rolling top of a hill approximately 200 feet in elevation over- 
65. Annuel Sanitary Report, 1944- 
66. Ibid. 
67. Annual Sanitary Rc-ports, 1943 and 1944* 
68. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944* 
69. Annua. 1 Sanitary Reports, 1943 and 1944. looking the Puget Sound Navy Yard, of which it is a pert, and the 
Sinclair Inlet. It is one-third mile from the water, located on a 
70 
reserve.tion of 17 acres. Neither the hospital nor the grounds have 
been marred by developments or construction during the war period, 
"Green lawns and gardens, towering fir trees, and the golf course of 
71 
the Navy Yard surround the reservation.” At the beginning of hos- 
tilities, it comprised some 30 brick buildings of old English colon- 
ial architecture. During the War, 5 temporary units were demolished 
to make way for construction of several new permanent and temporary 
structures, including a sick officers' quarters, laundry, and Hospital 
73 
Corps quarters. Fivefold expansion in the number of patients caused 
a very intensive use of the existing facilities. "It can be said that 
all these things were accomplished in such a way that the hospital was 
not cut up or cluttered. On the contrary, the hospital presented a 
calm well-integrated cleanness of line and arrangement which belied 
the intense activities and testified to the efficient work that 
characterized the performance of this hospital throughout the war 
74 
period." 4 The institution ranked thirty-third among continental 
hospitals and was an important unit among the West Coast facilities. 
U. S. Naval Hospital, Brooklyn, was commissioned in 1832 
and has since served the Navy yard at that pla.ee. During the war 
period there was no new construction at the hospital, as it was ex- 
70. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 
71. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
72. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
73. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 
74. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cunulative History. pected that the establishment would close at the time of the com- 
missioning of St. Albans, also located in the New York area. How- 
ever, in February of 1943, when St. Albans was ready to be placed in 
commission, the patient load in the area had risen to such an extent 
75 
that it was deemed advisable to continue the Brooklyn hospital. 
The Navy yard had planned to use the hospital area for expansion, but 
this necessary expansion was delayed by the still more urgent need for 
76 
additional hospital facilities in the area. The compound contains 
some 30 buildings of permanent construction. The main buildings were 
three-story structures closely grouped because of the lack of space. 
Although no new buildings wore constructed, the entire plant was re- 
conditioned and renovated during the war period. Most of this work 
77 
was accomplished by Navy yard labor which was readily available. 
The Brooklyn hospital ranked thirtieth among continental installations. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Camp LeJeune, North Carolina., 
served the large ferine training activities in that area. It was 
originally commissioned as U. S. Naval Hospital, New River, 1 June 
1943, but was changed to the present designation on 1 November 
1944. The hospital is located a short distance from the camp area 
and comprises an area of 145 acres. Like several other hospitals in 
this general region of the South Atlantic and Gulf Coast, the ground 
is partly sand interspersed with patches of gumbo-like soil. The re- 
servation was well wooded, although the soil of such areas needs to 
75. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
76. Annual Sanitarj7- Report, 1943. 
77. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. be enriched for grass cover to prevent blowing sand and dust. In 
—w w *' * 
the sanitary reports this station relates that the average tempera- 
ture range is between 63 and 68 degrees, with extremes considerably 
beyond these figures. The relative humidity averages 73 percent — 
a high concentration which is found along the coast increasing south- 
ward and westward to Corpus Christi and produces severe patient dis- 
comfort in summer. The main group of buildings are permanent brick 
structures with a number of additional temporary ward and subsidiary 
78 
structures. It ranks twenty-third among general hospitals in size. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Charleston, South Carolina, was 
the smallest naval hospital. It v;as created in 1917 to serve the 
Navy yard at that place. With the coming of the defense program, a 
new building was authorized and placed in commission on 13 April 1942. 
The new structure was located in the northwestern section of the Navy 
79 
yard. The main building is in the form of a square around a small 
park, with 12 temporary wards increasing the capacity for war emer- 
gency purposes. In addition, there were 8 permanent buildings in- 
cluding the nurses’ quarters, sick officers’ quarters and recreation 
building. The corpsmen barracks and the WAVE quarters were of tem- 
80 
porary construction. Part of the area was marsh, and piling was 
required for the remainder was firmer sand. The 
buildings are surrounded by abundant shrubbery and woods. Mosquito 
78. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
79. Ibid. 
80. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 
40- control and policing v/ere found to be necessary. It started the War 
with the smallest authorized bed capacity but on V-J Day ranked above 
10 other hospitals. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Chelsea, Massachusetts, is located 
in proximity to the Charleston Navy Yard. It is located on a ’’jutting 
promontory” on a plat of some 81 acres of usable land, with the Mystic 
and Island End Rivers on either side. At the beginning of the War the 
hospital area contained a total of 31 buildings of which 13 were perman- 
ent. These units were renovated in 1942 by W.P.A. labor.The main 
structure of the unit is situated on the top of the hill, while the 
82 
ward buildings and supplementary structures are located on the slopes. 
During 1944, a considerable amount of new construction was undertaken 
and a dependents* unit, TTAVE barracks, recreation building, and sub- 
sistance building were in various stages of completion, all of per- 
manent construction. In addition, a unit of 5 new ward buildings of 
frame construction were added on the lower ground at the point. The 
installation was originally commissioned 7 January I836, and had 
83 
served the Navy during four previous wars. The hospital was filled 
to only one-half capacity at the beginning of the War, but as the 
patient load increased during 1942 and 1943, additional ward build- 
ings were opened. By the close of the War it ranked twelfth among 
naval hospitals. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Corona, California, was commission- 
ed 16 December 1941. It is the fourth largest of all naval hospitals 
81. Ibid. 
82. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943* 
83. Historical Data by A. Farenbolt, A12/NH102, 1 Nov. 1910. 
■41 and is composed of four major physical units. Unit I is the original 
Norconian Hotel building, which is located on the brow of a hill. 
The construction is of California Spanish style. To the existing 
unit has been added a large reinforced concrete building, throe to 
five stories in height, located on the side of the hill and connected 
with the main building by a passageway from the fifth floor. Separ- 
ate corpsmon and nurse quarters are included in this unit. 4 Unit 
II is of entirely new construction single-story, semi-permanent ward 
buildings, 30 in number. A long covered passageway connects this 
85 
unit with Unit I. Unit III consists of 42 temporary buildings and 
is an additional and separate organization for general hospital pur- 
86 
poses, although located in the same reservation. Unit V is fre- 
quently referred to as the Spadra Annex. It is situated 22 miles 
77 
from Corona,.'' The buildings were used at one time as the state nar- 
cotic hospital. This property had been more recently used by the 
Army as a hospital in their desert training program. In all there 
vie re 122 buildings, 36 of which were part of the former state nar- 
cotic unit and the remainder constructed, by the Army. It was used 
by the Navy for convalescent patients and for this purpose it proved 
88 
fairly satisfactory. Unit II was especially fitted to care for 
tuberculosis patients and Unit III for those with rheumatic fever. 
Corona, is the only general hospital which was created by converting 
civilian facilities for Navy medical purchase. The convalescent hos- 
84. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
85. Annua. 1 Sanitary Report, 1944• 
86. Ibid. 
87. Ibid. 
86. Annual Sanitary Report, Historical Supplement, 1944. pitals, however, were practically* cJLl of-’this type. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Corpus Christi, Texas, was so 
located as to serve the naval air station and other activities of 
that area. The site was chosen in October 1940, and no Navy medi- 
cal officer was consulted. The site is sc located that planes tak- 
ing off into the prevailing wind fly directly over the hospital at 
least six months of the year. In common with other coastal areas, 
loose blowing sand is a constant difficulty, and considerable effort 
and money have been expended in eliminating this difficulty by plant- 
ing carpet grass and shrubbery. There were four major hurricanes 
89 
in the first two and one-half years but no serious damage resulted. 
This installation is entirely temporary with wood construction. It 
started with 23 buildings and a number of additional structures were 
completed during the war years. The Corpus Christi hospital was 
placed in commission shortly before the War and ranked thirty-first 
at the close of the conflict. 
The establishment of U. S. Naval Hospital, Corvallis, 
Oregon, was part of the program to utilize former Army facilities 
which became available as Army training activities decreased when 
the men were sent overseas. The Corvallis hospital had been used to 
serve Camp Adair and was operated in a manner similar to a Navy dis- 
pensary. Severe cases had been transferred to other hospitals. It 
comprises a group of temporary Army barracks, structures grouped con- 
89. Annual Sanitary Report, Historical Supplement, 1944* viently and connected for hospital purposes. Additional equipment 
needed to be installed to make the establishment suitable for a gen- 
eral Navy hospital. It was commissioned on 3 February 1945 and was 
the last established of the five hospitals in the Thirteenth Naval 
District. At the close of the War it ranked ninth among the general 
hospitals. 
U..S. Naval Hospital, Dublin, Georgia, is one of the feu 
permanent structures planned, constructed, and completed during the 
war period. The plans were drawn in close cooperation with the Vet- 
erans 1 Administration.00 It is located in south central Georgia on 
gently rolling land. The plat includes 240 acres. Representative 
Carl Vinson, chairman of the House Naval Affairs Committee, rendered 
valuable assistance in locating a suitable site. Mr. Vinson was fam- 
91 
iliar with the area as it is located in his Congressional District. 
The buildings are of brick, and are in keeping with traditional 
southern colonial architectural style, with pillars adorning the 
portico of the administration building. The main building unit is 
arranged in two general wings and is separated into S wards. The 
usual separate units for an establishment not located in a metropoli- 
92 
tan area are found here. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Farrngut, Idaho, is located in 
the midst of pine forrests on the shores of Idaho’s beautiful Lake 
90. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 30, 11 June 1943* 
91. General File, N.H. 73. 
92. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. Pend Orielle, and adjoins the U. S. Naval Training Center. It is con- 
sidered one of the most complete hospital units in the Pacific North- 
west and is also the most modern and probably the largest in Idaho, 
93 
Washington, Montana, or southwestern Canada, The original plat in- 
cluded 177 acres of virgin timber. The initial construction program 
called for 44 wards each capable of hospitalizing 46 patients. The 
compound included the usual subsidiary buildings needed for a hospital 
establishment located at a considerable distance from any large center 
94 
of population. During 1944, 14 additional ward buildings and a 
civilian unit were located in Farragut village near the main gate. 
In April of 1945, a unit of the training activity known as Camp 
Bennion was transferred to the hospital command thus making available 
an additional 1,600 beds for convalescent patients. At the end of 
hostilities the Farragut hospital was the third largest naval hos- 
pital in the continental United States, and the second largest in the 
Pacific Coast area. 
U. S. Naval Hospital, Fort Eustis, Virginia, was the first 
Army hospital to be reconverted to naval purposes. Initial plans 
were made in July and the installation was commissioned 29 August 
1944. It was built of regular Army barracks type buildings. This 
Army hospital was fully equipped and needed only the assembling of 
staff and personnel so that it could be placed in operation. It was 
ready to receive patients by 17 September 1944. It is located only 
93. Ibid. 
94. Ibid. 
•45 « 
27 miles from Norfolk and so was intended to ease the patient load 
in this area, especially at Portsmouth and Norfolk, NOB. This es- 
tablishment ranks twenty-first among Navy general hospitals. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, Chicago, was lo- 
cated on a tract of 91 acres on Lake Michigan, and at the commence- 
ment of the War had 45 buildings, a considerable number of which were 
of old temporary World War I structure. Additional buildings to 
care for the anticipated load wore immediately started. The 1942 
sanitary report stated that all vacant land was occupied with build- 
ings and that there was no room for further expansion. During that 
95 
year the buildings were completely renovated. Ton sets of officers’ 
quarters and 9 standard ”H”-type ward buildings were constructed, 
several old temporary structures were demolished, and a new depon- 
96 
dents’ hospital building was constructed. In January of 1945, the 
hospital took over two dispensary institutions known as Mclntire 
Dispensary with 1,857 stated capacity and Camp Lawrence. These were 
responsible for adding 75 acres and 65 buildings. Camp Lawrence was 
used as a convalescent hospital and Mclntire Dispensary became a 
division of the general hospital. For the use of dependents, some 512 
beds were obtained at the Wharton Memorial Hospital in conjunction 
with Northwestern University. This unit was under the administrative 
97 
control of the Hospital.' This institution was at first designed 
to serve the training activities of Grea.t Lakes Training Station and 
95™ Annual Sanitary Report, 19/2 
96. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
97. Navy Department Conference of District Medical Officers, 11-12 
Oct. 1943 (llimiographed). 98 
associated programs. It ranks second in the United States and is the 
only U. S. naval hospital in the entire Ninth Naval District. The 
Hospital Corps School was established in 1942 on an area adjoining 
the hospital and remained until June of 1944 when the School was 
moved to San Diego, thus making additional floor space available to 
f 
the hospital. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Houston, Texas, was established 
14 July 1945 but was not placed in commission until 1946. It affords 
a good example of a perms.nent plant planned carefully to meet future 
needs. The central block is 7 stories high, with 4 ward blocks of 
3 stories and an administration win.;: of 2 stories. Fourteen perman- 
ent ward buildings, similar to the Bethesda trIn-type are connected 
with the main structure. The separate structures are those common to 
permanent installations, and usually found with temporary units as 
well. There are the quarters - three individual sets for officers, 
bachelor officers’ quarters, nurses’ quarters; Hospital Corps quarters; 
cooks’ and bakers'quarters, civilian technicians’ quarters; power 
plant; laundry; incinerator; ship’s service; garage; storehouses; 
greenhouse, and gate houses. As it is in a metropolitan area, water, 
sewerage, and added fire protection arc available and transportation 
problems are reduced. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Jacksonville, Florida, is associ- 
ated with the naval air training activities at that place. It has on 
98. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
99, Ibid, elevation of about 27 feet and ,!is within 200 yards of St. Johns River 
100 
thereby providing a fitting nautical setting." The compound in- 
cludes about 83 acres and, like installations located in similar coast- 
al areas, contains a varied soil of sand and muck. Planting of cover- 
101 
age vegetation was found necessary to restrain bloving sand. The 
building of this installation has been almost continuous during the 
entire war period as the hospital expanded its patient load. By 1943, 
102 
it had doubled its physical size. The buildings are of temporary 
construction, chiefly of the "H" type. It was painted a 
protective coat of drab gray-green paint, but in 1944 this was 
covered by a more attractive white or gray. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Key West, Florida, wa.s originally 
103 
planned as a 150-bed permanent installation. When it was commis- 
sioned in October of 1942, the prospective patient load had grown 
and throughout the War its physical growth was continual. It is con- 
structed in an area of about 16 acres and has an elevation of from 3 
to / feet above high tide. The hazard and annoyance from wind-blown 
marl dust was abated by planting grass and shrubs."Most of the 
work of shoveling and spreading was done by the Hospital Corps", as 
105 
other labor was not readily available. A severe hurricane during 
1944 destroyed much of this landscaping and also demolished the sea 
106 
wall. The main building is three-story reinforced concrete, with 
100. Annual Sanitary Report, Historical Supplement, 1944. 
101. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. Historical Supplement, 1944. 
102. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1942, 1943, 1944; Historical Supplement, 1945. 
103. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
104. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1942, 1943. 
105. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. 
106. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. two ”Un-shaped wings two stories in height. Other buildings in the 
reservation are one or two-story structures, largely of permanent 
or 3eni-permanent construction. The hospital serves the NOB, in- 
cluding such units as submarine base, Coast Guard station, two air 
107 
stations, a convoy center, ship repair depot, and sound school. 
Because of its isolated position, the opening of the highway connect- 
ing it with the mainland was of great benefit. Similarly, a fresh 
water pipeline from the mainland served much better than rainwater 
collected in cisterns. This hospital was ranked fortieth in auth- 
orized bed capacity at the end of the War. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Long Beach, California, was ori- 
ginally planned as a 300-bed permanent installation, modernistic in 
design, and of reinforced concrete construction. By the time it was 
commissioned on 15 December 1942, the need for additional beds was 
108 
apparent and further expansion was undertaken. This expansion 
was of temporary construction. By June of 1945 some 3,270 beds were 
available at the institution. It ranked eighteenth in size among hos- 
pitals and third among those of the Eleventh Naval District. It covers 
100 acres and ’’there is an excellent view of the ocean on the south 
109 
and of the back country to the north.” The insert map on the 
ground plan of this station indicates its relation to Los Angeles, 
San Corona and other naval activities. 
107. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943, Historical Supplement. 
108. Annual Sanitarjr Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
109. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. 
■49' The U. S. Navel Hospital, Mare Island, California, is the 
oldest naval hospital in the West, being established in I864. The 
present main building was constructed in 1900 and the plan to raze 
the old .structure and build a new building was prevented Only by the 
110 
outbreak of the War. In 1942, the existing buildings were entirely 
renovated and made suitable for the intensive activity of the next 
few years.During the war years, extensive alterations were made 
in existing structures, and considerable new constructions were under- 
taken. The replacement of the main unit was not effected but a new 
permanent and spacious recreation building, bagroom, mess ball, shop 
112 
and laundry were added. These are modernistic reinforced concrete 
structures of the same general style as the new buildings at Houston 
113 
and Long Beach. In 1943, the Hare Island Hospital also took a 
permanent lease on the newly constructed 300-bed unit at Napa State 
Hospital, which has been designated the Annex. The Annex cared for 
psychotic patients and relieved the overcrowded main units. This was 
a further extension of an agreement made in June 194-2 by which Napa 
State Hospital agreed to care for 100 Navy patients. In conjunction 
with the Annex, two new temporary structures and mess hall were con- 
The neuropsychiatric department became so active that ex- 
tensive shifts were required to care for the heavy patient load. Wards 
were created in barracks buildings outside the hospital reservation; 
110. Annual Sanitary Report, Historical Supplement, 194-4* 
111. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 
112. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944* 
113. Sec pictures of these institutions. 
114. Resolution 60, Federal Board of Hospitalization; Annual 
Sanitary Report, 1944* the construction of a number of temporary wards and even the erection 
of an annex of tents was necessary to care for the heavy load of this 
patient type. Final transfer of patients to the U. S. Public Health 
Service Hospital, Navy Unit, Fort Worth, Texas, relieved the conges- 
.. 115 
tion. 
The Memphis hospital is a wartime temporary hospital serving 
the adjacent training centers and caring for convalescent patients 
sent to the hospital because it was located near their home. It is lo- 
cated some 23 miles north of Memphis on land which previous to the 
116 
War was under cultivation. The land is flat and drainage was so 
poor that construction was seriously hampered in 1942 and 1943 be- 
cause of heavy rains and the lack of solid roads and walks, which made 
117 
transportation of material virtually impossible. There is no storm 
sewer available and drainage is by surface ditches where silting re- 
118 
quires constant maintenance labor. Because of this silting in 
wet weather and the dust in dry weather, great stress was laid on 
coverage by lespedeza and Bermuda grass. The completely treeless re- 
servation has been beautified by trees and shrubs. The hospital was 
commissioned on 17 March 1943 and is a prototype of the temporary 
asbestos shingle wood construction type structure. The buildings are 
115. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942, 1943, and 1944. 
116. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944, Historical Supplement. 
117. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
118. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. roughly arranged in the form of a cross* One center corridor connects 
the administration building, subsistence building, and the specialty 
units of the laboratory operating rooms, X-ray, and physiotherapy 
119 
wings. The other, and longer, corridor connects all of the wards. 
This conventional design is repeated in other temporary hospitals. 
The hospital is largest in the Eighth Naval District and twenty-seventh 
in the United States. 
The New Orleans hospital was one of seyen continental units 
authorized by Congress in the spring of 1942 to be built by drawing 
from an emergency fund of $800,000,000 appropriated for various urgent 
120 
naval exapnsion demands. "The actual site was chosen because of 
expediency and is situated in a low area of reclaimed land on the 
edge of Lake Pontchartrain. The foundations of the wards and other 
buildings have settled unevenly due to poor ground conditions and the 
121 
high water table." The reservation is 65.7 acres in extent, and 
the average elevation is 5.6 feet above the Gulf level. Although 
underground drains were provided, the runoff was poor because of the 
flatness of the Army hospital also serving this general area 
was located immediately adjacent and constructed at about the same 
123 
time. The administration building is connected with 21 wings, of 
which all but 2 are used for ward purposes. All wards are arranged so 
119. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
120. Memorandum: To R. T Mclntire from W. S. Douglass, 26 Aug. 1942; 
The other hospitals were Bainbridge, Memphis, Norman, Farragut, 
Santa Margarita Ranch, and Sampson; Public Law 528 - 77th Con- 
gress, approved 28 Apr, 1942. 
121. R. T Mclntire to Leonard Outhwaite, Director Federal Board of 
Hospitalization, May 1945. 
122. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
123. See Correspondence File', N.H, 64. that the administrative end of the building opens into the corridor 
and the actual bed space is in the opposite end adjoining a solarium. 
There are 6 separate quarters and service buildings.The size of 
the hospital has been increased to this capacity by an extensive 
building program in 1943-1944. At this time,, the space was increased 
125 
by one-half. At the end of the War, New Orleans ranked thirty- 
fourth* 
The Newport, Rhode Island, hospital is one of the permanent 
hospitals commissioned just before World War I. At the beginning of 
this war, it was a complete unit ready to care for 500 patients under 
126 
optimum conditions and 1,000 in emergencies. The size of the 
reservation was increased by 5.6 acres in 1942 making the total size 
“I or*? 
32.5 acres. ' The grounds overlook Narragansett Bay and the adjacent 
training station, torpedo stations, and Fort Adanso situated on islands 
128 
in the bay. Active construction of temporary wards and quarters 
129 
buildings was undertaken in 1942 and completed in 1943. " By the 
end of the War the hospital ranked twenty-fourth in size. 
One of the hospital units under construction before Pearl 
Harbor was the Norfolk, NOB. Construction was commenced on 15 Novem- 
ber 1941 and the establishment was commissioned approximately a year 
later, on 2 November 1942. The facility v/as originally planned to pro- 
124. Annual Sanitary Report 1945, Cumulative History. 
125. Resolution No. 73, Federal Board of Hospitalization, 8 Oct. 1943. 
126. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
127. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 
128. Note: Sec map on plat. 
129. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. vide an authorized bed capacity of 750, but during the War S wards 
were added, which raised its capacity to 1,030. All construction 
was of permanent reinforced concrete with brick veneer. The wards 
wore rTin-type buildings with the usual sustaining structures for an 
131 
institution of this type. The reservation, on the site of the old 
Army base, is 57 acres of flat, sandy land much of which was formerly 
used as a golf course. Lawns are excellent except where construction 
has taken place. A 10-acre wooded section affords space for recreation- 
132 
al expansion. A serious drawback to the site was the poor drain- 
age which was finally overcome by storm sewers and extensive filling 
in of swamp areas. During 1944 a drain was installed to replace the 
open creek which had carried raw sewage through the midst of the rc-ser- 
133 
vation. The WAVE barracks and the recreation building were com- 
pleted in 1944. As is usual with most hospitals, these units were 
added last, the former upon the arrival of WAVES in force, and the lat- 
ter as the result of the increased staff and convalescent patient load. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Fort Eustis, Lee Hall, Virginia, which was 
commissioned in August of 1944 served as an overflow unit for this hos- 
pital. Although it was a separate command, it worked closely with NOB 
Norfolk and Portsmouth in sharing the patient load of that area. The 
family clinics at Bcnmoreel and Merrimac Park were tbransferred from 
the Fifth Naval District to the command of the hospital on 21 June 1945. 
130. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
131. See chart, Appendix L. 
132. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. 
133. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. Merrimac was decommissioned after the close of the War on 5 October 
of the same year, while Benmoreel was continued as a family clinic. 
At the close of the War this hospital ranked twenty-second and had 
1,652 patients. 
The Norman hospital is found two miles from Norman and 24 
4 
miles south of Oklahoma City. It was located at this inland point 
to serve the large naval air station and other wartime training acti- 
134 
vities. It was part of the emergency construction program to build 
hospital facilities at training centers inaugurated soon after the 
135 
commencement of the War. "The reservation occupies 252.8 acres of 
136 
rolling land, the choice location in the area." J The grounds are 
well drained, in general, and a creek on the west boundry had been 
dammed as a source of extra fire protection. The prospective medical 
officer arriving late in August stated: "The first view of the site 
was anything but encouraging. There was red, sticky, Oklahoma mud 
which made transportation in part of the area extremely difficult. 
There were times when it was impossible to get into the building area 
in any type of vehicle, including jeeps. Therefore, on those days 
building just stopped. There were wind and attendant dust storms 
137 
because the ground was bare, having been denuded by bull-dozers." 
Every effort was made to build the hospital as rapidly as possible; 
therefore pressure was brought to bear and the construction work was 
134. Ltr. from Ross T Mclntire to Leonard Guthwaite, May 1945, 
Surgeon General!s files. 
135. Ltr. from TT. S. Douglass to Ross T Mclntire, 26 Aug. 1942, Surgeon 
Generalfs Files; Public Law 528, 77 Cong., approved 28 Apr. 1942. 
136. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
137. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943, Historical Supplement. placed on a twenty-four hour, seven day a week schedule. The accel- 
eration was marked, and commissioning took place on 15 November, some 
I38 
five months after the breaking of ground. By the beginning of 1945, 
55 buildings were in full operation. The construction was of wood 
139 
with drop siding and held up well during the war period. Active 
and continuous attention was accorded the problem of erosion and dust 
control and the nuisance had been considerably abated by 
The hospital ranks twenty-ninth among similar installations. 
Immediately following Pearl Harbor the need for expanded 
facilities on the West Coast was undertaken by the Medical Department. 
The Oakland hospital was established to meet the need in the San Fran- 
cisco area. The site of the Oak Knoll Gulf Club was surveyed in mid- 
December and the project approved by the Federal Board of Hospitaliza- 
tion on 29 December 1941* The reservation included 320 acres in the 
foothills section of the city of Oakland overlooking the bay area.1^1 
The greater part of the reservation acreage is of no value for build- 
ing purposes because of the high hills. The plat plan of construc- 
tion is different from most of the temporary installations, as the 
buildings were laid out as would best suit the contour of the land. 
The buildings were of temporary construction, and divided into two 
general areas by a creek which courses through the valley, as well 
as by the configuration of the slopes. As new additions were made 
138. Annual Sanitary Report, Historical Supplement, 1943. 
139. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1943 and 1944. 
140.. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944; Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, 
Cumulative History. 
141. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 142 
they climbed higher up the sides of the hills. The installation 
was originally conceived as a 500-bed hospital but was increased from 
time to time until by the end of the War it was officially rated as 
sixth in the country and second in the Twelfth Naval District, For 
143 
emergency purposes, it could accommodate 5,000 patients. 
The naval hospital at Parris Island serves the recruit train- 
ing activities of that Marine Barracks, At the commencement of hos- 
tilities, the ho spite, 1 command not only covered the small 200-bed es- 
tablishment but also exercised control over two dispensary units. In 
144 
October of 1942, these units were separated from the command, },The 
buildings were all of flimsy construction, susceptible to considerable 
leaking during driving rains of sub-hurricane and hurricane force, ”-*-45 
By the end of the War there were 45 buildings, all temporary, and 
there was no further room for added construction. It was situated on 
a 17-acre tract directly adjoining the Marine Barracks. The Beaufort 
146 
River encloses the reservation on two sides. Several ward buildings, 
as well as the greater part of the hospital grounds, are subject to 
flooding from tidal waters resulting from hurricanes. The hospital 
hurricane hill provides for complete evacuation in case of such a 
147 
catastrophe. The grounds are well kept and present an attrative 
*1 10 
appearance, especially during the spring, summer and fall seasons. 
142. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
143. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943; Resolution 25, 21 May 1943. 
144. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
145. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
146. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
147. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
14S. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. i *V 
Construction was hold to a minimum and only most essential additions 
were made to the physical plant. However, a new bandstand was donated 
149 
by the commanding general of the Barracks. Because of the inade- 
quacy of the site and restrictions of space, the Medical Department re- 
solved to construct a new permanent unit in a more suitable location. 
In the spring of 1945 a definite plan of expansion for a 500-bed hos- 
pital was approved, and a 200-acre site was endorsed by the Federal 
150 
Board of Hospitalization. 
The Pensacola hospital reservation of 43 acres includes two 
sections* The old reservation, dating back to 1375, contains the old 
151 
units which were remodeled and used throughout the duration. The 
new reservation contains the new permanent buildings completed just 
before the VK:ir and has a permanent bed capacity of 350 available for 
152 
the post-v/ar period naval use. During 1942 and 1943, considerable 
new construction of temporary nHn and nIn wards and quarters buildings 
Was carried out. The facility is located on top of a 30-foot sand 
bluff overlooking Pensacola Bay to the south. This installation 
served the Intermediate Air Training Command units and naval air 
stations of the area. It was the only permanent hospital in commis- 
sion at the close of the War in the Eighth Naval District and ranked 
twenty-eighth among continental hospitals. 
The Philadelphia hospital is located within the city of 
149* Annual Sanitary Report, Historical Supplement, 1943* 
150. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 162, 22 May 1945. 
151. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 
152. Ltr. from Ross T Mclntire to Leonard Outhwaitc, May 1945. Philadelphia on part of the grounds once used for the Sesquicentennial 
Celebration. It is situated about a mile from the Navy yard. During 
1942, some 25 acres were added to the reservation making a total of 
153 
49 acres. The main building is of permanent brick construction of 
the skyscraper type. It is located in a sunken area 9 feet below 
154 
the street level, and included 11 units at the outbreak of the War. 
During 1942, two permanent wings were added to the main building struc- 
155 
ture. Because of the large patient load from the Navy yard and the 
units in the port, a great many temporary additions were ma.de. These 
temporary buildings were of cinder block construction giving the 
facility a greater appearance of pernanonco than the more common wood 
or asbestos shingle type of The convalescent annex at 
Swathmore was occupied on January 1943 and served as an overflow 
157 
facility for the Philadelphia hospital. This hospital is the 
only general hospital in the Fourth Naval District and ranks eleventh 
in the United States. In addition, 100 beds were made available at 
158 
the Naval Home for the care of active duty naval patients. 
The main building of the Portsmouth, New Hampshire, hospital 
was built in 1913 and remains the center of the institution’s activi- 
ties. It is a three-story brick building. During the War three ”Hn- 
type buildings, one of permanent construction, were added and several 
smaller outlying buildings wore converted into wards for convalescent 
153# Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative Historv. 
154* Ibid. 
155. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 
156. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. 
157. N.H. 70. 
158. Navy Department conferences, DistMedOff, 11-12 Oct. 1944. 159 
patients. In 1943, a wing for hospitalization of dependents was 
opened as well as quarters for nurses and hospital corpsmen. There 
, 160 
were some 16 wooden structures serving outlying activities. The 
basement of the main building was designated as an air-raid shelter 
and all doors and windows were bombproofed by brick and cement shields. 
161 
These were removed in 1944- The patient load increased markedly 
during the War, necessitating numerous shifts within existing struc- 
tures and various additions- Despite this increase in activities the 
hospital ranked next to last among Navy general hospitals in its patient 
load and thirty-eighth in authorized bed capacity. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, Virginia, is the oldest 
established naval hospital in the United States. Previous to May of 
1943, it was known as Norfolk Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, Virginia, but 
the name was changed to prevent confusion after the hospital was es- 
tablished at the NOB, Norfolk.162 
The Portsmouth, Virginia, hospital is situated on a tract of 
141 acres of which 109 are hard land. The land is very flat and sandy, 
with an elevation of about 90 feet above the Elizabeth River. It is 
163 
bounded by that river and a residential section of Portsmouth. It 
serves the Norfolk Navy Yard, other Fifth Naval District activities, and 
fleet units based in the area.161 At the beginning of the War, it was 
the second largest hospital and had adequate facilities for peacetime 
159. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, emulative History. 
160. Annual Sanitary Report, Historical Supplement, 1943. 
161. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
162. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
163. Annual Sanitary Report,1945, Cumulative History; Annual Sanitary 
Reports, 1943 and 1944. 
164. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. activities. Two new wings had been recently added and its permanent 
l 
buildings for housing personnel and equipment were adequate. With 
the coming of wartime conditions, an extensive building program was 
inaugurated which extended throughout the entire War. Extensive 
165 
renovation maintained the old structures in excellent condition. 
Because of the military importance of the area, a passive defense pro- 
gram of sandbag barricades around important units was instituted and 
166 
not removed until 1944- Except for the long established part of 
the grounds, the area was bare of trees. In 1944 an arrangement was 
made with the Navy yard whereby two barracks were placed under the 
cognisance of the hospital and cases awaiting discharge were quartered 
there, thus releasing 46O hospital beds previously used for such 
167 
cases. The hospital was the second largest on the East Coast, being 
surpassed only by St. Albans. It ranked tenth among all continental 
hospitals. 
The Quantico hospital was one of the three institutions 
opened just before Pearl Harbor. It is situated at the site of an old 
Libcrtjr Shipyard of World War I, on an elevated point of land on the 
west bank of the Potomac River. ’’The location of the grounds are 
ideally suited for the purpose, providing a fitting nautical setting 
16 S 
and an invigorating but quiet and restful atmosphere.M 0 The grounds 
165. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 14, 17 May 1943; 
Annual Sanitary Reports for 1942, 1943* and 19/4. 
166. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
167. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. needed considerable landscaping and removal of concrete and debris 
169 
left from the shipyard establishment. The reservation contains 
about 60 acres, including 10 acres of swamp land which necessitated 
energetic malarial draining and policing. During the War an adequate 
program of landscaping, seeding, filling, and construction of walks 
170 
and roads was carried out. More than 3,000 trees and shrubs were 
planted to beautify the compound. In 1943, an increase of one-third 
in acreage was purchased. Included with the land were 13 dwellings 
which were promptly converted to officers1 quarters. In this regard, 
the officers of the Qunntico hospital were most fortunate as building 
restrictions commonly allowed only three sets of quarters to be erect- 
171 
ed. The modern main building of the hospital was a three-story 
colonial style, wing-type building of limestone, granite, and rod 
brick. During the War, buildings to house the increased patient load 
were continually under construction. This hospital was the smallest 
of the four units primarily serving Marine Corps training activities 
172 
and ranked forty-second among all naval hospitals. 
\ 
The U. S. Naval Receiving Hospital, San Francisco, is differ- 
ent in its physical constititution from the other continental naval 
hospitals. In the planning stage it was first designated Mobile Hos- 
173 
pital No. 13, and its site was determined in the spring of 1944. 
168. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, emulative History. 
169. Annual Sanitary Report, 1942. 
170. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1942, 19435 1944. 
171. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. 
172. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1942, 1943, and 1944. 
The other hospitals associated with Marine training camps are, in 
order to size, Santa Margarita Ranch, Camp LcJcunc, and Parris Island. 
173. Ltr. from Ross T Melntirc to Coninch, CNO, 26 Apr. 1944; Ltr. from 
CNO to BuMcd, 19 Mar. 1944. 
■62 This hospital is located at the Amazon Reservoir in south central 
San Francisco, some distance from the harbor. The reservation had 
been previously used as a recreation area, and three stadiums are 
among the 62 buildings in use at the close of the War. The elevation 
of the ground is some 200 feet, and hills surround, it. The buildings 
are all of the temporary pro-fabricated type, devised for the mobile 
hospitals. The 47 units which ma.de up the original hospital were 
174 
assembled in less than 120 days. The facility was placed in com- 
mission on 9 December 1944 ns Fleet Hospital Number 113. In the mid- 
dle of February the commanding officer received a letter from the 
Bureau stating: 
If you have not already gotten the word you will be 
interested to know that the activity under your command as 
of 8 February 1945 was designated USN Receiving Hospital, 
San Francisco, California. This was requested by Commander 
Western Sea Frontier and is O.K. except that we feel that 
by change in name it will lose its identity and signifi- 
cance as an overseas facility set up in the U. S. to meet 
a particular need. 
The hospital acts as a clearing house to segregate and dis- 
tribute patients coming to the continent from overseas. Originally 
devised to house 1,000 patients, the hospital was so expanded that it 
176 
could take 2,262 in emergencies. 
The Srn Diego hospital was the largest institution at the 
beginning of hostilities and during the War continued to hold this 
174. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
175. Ltr. from Copt. C. L. Andrus, to "Dos, Gerald” (Capt. Gerald W. 
Smith) 14 Fob. 1945; SecNav Conf. ltr. Opl3-3D psp Serial 0102513, 
(SC) A42/NH, of a Feb. 1945. N.D. Conf., Bui. C45-10 of 15 Feb. 
1945. 
176. March Quarter Annual Sanitary Report. 
63' 177 
rank. At the beginning of the War the hospital command covered a 
Hospital Corps school and an out-patient department which together 
included 56 buildings on a 77-acre compound. By the end of the War 
it had so expanded that it was divided into six units with a total 
178 
of 241 buildings on a combined acreage of 247. On 7 December 1941, 
the hospital had an authorized capacity of 1,424, and on V-J Day 10,499. 
The permanent group of buildings was regularly referred to as mainsidc 
and designated Unit Number 1. This Unit contained 89 buildings of 
which 47 are temporary structures. In addition, 100 tents were set 
up with v/ooden decks and supports. The older buildings arc Cali- 
vornia-Spanish style construction. During the War a number of per- 
180 
manent structures were added to the mainsidc hospital. 
Unit 2 is occupied chiefly by the ncuropsychia.tric depart- 
ment and the medical service and is located on the former San Diego 
Exposition grounds situated in Balboa Park. It is located only two- 
tenths of a mile from the main unit. The Exposition buildings were 
frame with stucco exterior and needed extensive work in remodeling. 
Subsequent to the exposition they had been used as museum and art 
galleries and upon being taken over by the Navy in December of 1941, 
the art objects wore removed and stored. This unit contains 33 acres 
181 
and 25 buildings. It was occupied by the Navy without lease and 
without cost other than upkeep and repairs, merely on the non-objection 
177. Medical Statistical Division. 
178. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
179. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
180. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 161, U.S.N.H., 
San Diego, 24 Apr. 1945. 
181. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
6-4 182 
of the city. Ingenious devices were used in altering the various 
structures for hospital purposes. One large building contained two 
natural-habitat, mounted bird groups which could not bo removed. The 
group was left in place, a housing built over then and a nurses’ plat- 
form was located on top of the housing. Some 380 double-deck beds 
occupied the floor space and the ward was said to be the largest 
183 
single medical ward in any hospital in the world. This unit also 
contained 239 tents with wooden decks and supports. At the peak of 
hospital admissions, some of these were used for patients, although 
184 
they were intended for corpsmen. 
Unit Number 3 is the plat of 33 acres previously known as 
Camp Kidd, while it served as a naval training center and later as 
repair base. In May 1944, the area was turned over to the hospital 
command for a Hospital Corps school. There were 22 buildings of frame 
and plaster-covered exterior, dating from the exposition period, and 
185 
33 former Army barracks were moved in and converted. In June of 
1944 the San Diego U. S. Naval Hospital Corps School, formerly lo- 
cated in Unit 2, was consolidated with the Hospital Corps School from 
186 
Great Lakes, Illinois. 
Unit Number 4 was situated in the southwest corner of Balboa 
and was made up entirely of Army barracks converted into convalescent 
wards. The Navy took over this cx-Army camp site in October 1944* 
182. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
183. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
184. Ibid.; Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
185. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History; Annual 
Sanitary Report, 1944. 
186. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. l ' 
The unit consists of 26 buildings on 7.8 acres of wooded land. Tho 
buildings were all constructed originally for the Army antiaircraft 
barracks and WACS' barracks and remodeled for adaptation to naval use. 
All four of these areas require irrigation for trees and other vege- 
tation. 
Unit Number 5 consists of 2.5 acres of wooded land with 
11 buildings scattered among* pine trees. This is used as a baggage 
and storage center for crew and patients. 
Unit Number 6 is the convalescent branch of the hospital 
at Rancho Santa Fc, 30 miles from the main compound. It 
is the John Burnham estate which is under lease to the Navy. There 
arc 9 buildings, 3 belonging to the owner and 6 converted from 13 
188 
Army barracks moved from an adjoining camp site. 
At the time of the greatest patient load, the beds were 
set up in each unit as follows: 
Unit 
No. 1 
Patients Non-Patients 
5,354 2,097 
Unit 
No. 2 
4,736 1,355 
Unit 
No. 3 
949 (Reserved) 2,710 
Unit 
No. 4 
671 
Unit 
No. 5 
16 
Unit 
No. 6 
254 35 
12,014 6,213 
In addition to beds set up, there are 1,669 berths in storage, in- 
cluding 495 single beds, 479 double deck beds, 13 cribs and 3 bassin- 
ets. 
127. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944 and 1945, Cumulative History. 
188. Ibid. The San Leandro hospital was built on a 162-acre tract which 
was pa.rt of the original tract of the Oakland hospital. It is located 
in the southwest section of the city of Oakland in the San Leandro 
hills. The area is very irregular, being cut up by large deep ravines. 
189 
The surrounding hills arc suitable only for grazing land. The 
buildings arc all temporary of wood frame construction with redwood 
siding. The 26 wards are single-story and connected by an enclosed 
corridor. Most of the buildings of thirteen quarters are of two 
stories. There arc eloven detached utility buildings. The hospital 
was designated and established in August of 1943 but was not com- 
missioned and did not receive patients until more than a year later. 
It is the smallest in the Twelfth Naval District and twenty-sixth in 
the United States. 
Sampson hospital was established as an adjunct to the Sampson 
Naval Training Station, Lake Seneca, New York, and was commissioned 
190 
27 February 1943. It is located on a tract of 474 acres on Lake 
Seneca in the Finger Lake region of central New York. The land was 
used for farming. About 200 acres are fairly level and 
situated on the top of a 150-foot hill which slopes down to the lake. 
The hospital is built on this plateau and is surrounded by groves of 
hardwood. During 1943 and 1944 extensive landscaping was carried 
out. In this beautification project valuable assistance was rendered 
by the Rochester Garden Club. Construction was commenced in July of 
189. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. 
190. Public Law 528, 77 Cong., Approved 28 Apr. 1942, 1942 and by the connissioning date the hospital was ready to function. 
Most of the buildings are of temporary construction, with the asbestos 
shingle siding frequently found in similar temporary installations. 
Only 9 of the smaller utility structures were of permanent construction. 
Sampson, like Bainbridge and Farragut, was a large general naval train- 
ing center in a nan-congested area. The hospital was designed pri- 
marially to serve such activities. Sampson was between the other two 
in size and ranked fourteenth in the general hospital field. 
The suggestion that the new dispensary unit at Treasure Is- 
land be designated the San Francisco Naval Hospital was made by the 
district medical officer in December of 1941* The unit was so desig- 
nated 20 January 1942 and was commissioned on 4 April. The construc- 
tion was not far enough advanced, however, to afford admittance to 
patients and they were not received until the 15th of July, more than 
191 
three months after commissioning. It was originally designed as 
a 500-bod hospital, but by the close of hostilities it was rated as a 
572-bed institution and ranked thirty-fifth among naval general hos- 
192 
pitals. The hospital is located on reclaimed land used originally 
for the San Francisco World Fair. It comprises an area of about three 
and one-half average city blocks. The soil is sandy and vegetation 
has been maintained cnly after considerable effort on the part of 
the hospital maintenance force. At the end of' the War, the area was 
191. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History; Gen. 
Files,N.H. 4S. 
192. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. *" TOO 
closely packed with temporary hospital and auxiliary structures, 
In September of 1942, at the time of the dedication of Camp 
Pendleton, the Surgeon General personally chose the site for the Santa 
Margarita Ranch naval hospital. Construction started the next month 
and it was commissioned in September of the following year. At the 
time of commissioning, the compound contained 54 buildings. It is 
located between Los Angeles and San Diego about 12 miles from Ocean- 
194 
side. The hospital buildings are grouped in an area of 94 ceres 
195 
on the top of a large, fairly level knoll. All buildings arc of 
temporary wood frame construction and are one stopy in height, with 
the exception of the administration and quarters buildings. The ad- 
ministration and subsistence buildings arc flanked on cither side by 
two double sets of ward buildings. Covered passageways connect all 
wards. The entire hospital reservation covers 230 acres at an 
average elevation of 103 feet. Erosion has been prevented by exten- 
sive planting of grass, trees, and shrubs. The climatic and geo- 
graphical conditions of this hospital site afford a-natural and-de- 
lightful area for tho treatment of the sick and injured. The hos- 
pital fronts on a lake made by the Santa Margarita River. At the 
close of the War in ranked twentieth in size. 
The Seattle hospital was part of the expansion program in- 
augurated immediately after Pearl Harbor. An estimate of the situa- 
tion in the Puget Sound area was made and it was determined that the 
193. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1943 and 1944* 
194. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943, Cumulative History, 1945. 
195. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944. use of civilian establishments, as had been successfully accomplished 
196 
at Corona, was not feasible in this locality. The hospital reser- 
vation consists of an approximately squhre plot of land leased from 
the state at $1,200 per year. It is located about 10 miles from the 
Thirteenth Naval District Headquarters in downtown Seattle. The plot 
contains 165 acres of rolling ground, about half of which is covered 
by second-growth pine and fir. Construction work bared considerable 
land which became a drainage problem in wet weather and a serious 
dust annoyance in dry weather. Top soil was spread and extensive 
197 
cover planted. The brush and fallen logs which constituted a 
serious fire hazard were removed. The hospital was originally planned 
as a 1,000-bed institution. Within six months after its commission- 
ing on 22 August 1942, an expansion program calling for 500 additional 
beds was inaugurated. The buildings are one-story frame construction, 
with California redwood siding and paper roofs. The original plan 
called for administration and utility structures flanked on two 
sides by ward blocks. The expansion program doubled the size of one 
block and extended it behind the service units. A fire was sus- 
tained by one of the wards in May of 1944* Great difficulty was ex- 
perienced with the sewage disposal unit, because some of the original 
equipment was set up and connected in the reverse of its established 
198 
function. The hospital was the third largest in the Thirteenth 
196. General Files.,N,K. 46. 
197. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1942 and 1943. 
198. Annual SaniLa::y Report, 1945, Cumulative History. Naval District and seventeenth in the country. 
The Shoemaker hospital is located 30 miles southeast of 
Oakland in the Livermore Valley. "It is not now known exactly why 
or how this site was selected but it is thought the principal reason 
v/as that an enormous tract of flat land was needed and this was the 
199 
nearest available tract of suitable size to the city of Oakland. 
The Navy took over 1,000 acres of land which was roughly divided into 
three units, Shoemaker•hospital being Unit III with 250 acres of land. 
The land is flat and level, of black adobe soil that bakes dry and 
cracks widely in summer. In winter the rainy season promotes a lush 
growth of grass and weeds, but scarcity of water in the dry season 
prohibits irrigation with the resultant browning of vegetation. The 
elevation is about 350 Initial construction of the hospital 
v/as begun in the spring of 1943 and the hospital v/as commissioned on 
1 October of that year. Expansion of the physical plant has been al- 
most continual since that time. On V-J Day, the compound included 
106 buildings of which 63 v/crc wards. The buildings are single 
story frame nIn-typo. The original group for 1,000 beds v/as con- 
structed of first class materials such as hardwood floors, while sub- 
202 
sequent units were built of poor grade, non-strategic materials. 
This hospital is the largGst in the Twelfth Naval District and fifth 
in the country. Shoemaker hospital supplies adequate figures for 
individual study of the cost of such temporary installations. 
199. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
200. Annual Saniuary Report, 1945, Cumulative History, 
201. Federal Board, of Hospitalization, Resolution 26, 25 June 1943. 
202. Bureau of MS ltr. 12 May 1943; Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. Cost of land $ 30,220.00 
Improvements & service utilities 727,104.00 
Building value 5,001,307.91 
Coat of Equipment 1,197.010.49 
TOTAL COST $6,955,642.40 
The fact that cost per authorized bed of $2,830.69 is 
belew the estimated expense for this purpose indicates that great 
. . 203 2 
care was exercised. 
The St. Albans hospital 7/as placed in commission 15 February- 
1943. The plans were laid early in 19/2 to build a hospital in the 
New York area to supplant the installatioh at the Brooklyn Navy Yard 
which was poorly situated for hospital purposes and not in a position 
to expand. At that time it was planned to use the Brooklyn hospital 
buildings for housing crev/s of vessels undergoing overhaul, after 
204 . '.'Ai - 
the hospital had been transferred. The site of the St. Albans 
Golf Club was selected and construction was undertaken in the spring 
of 19/2. The reservation includes 117.2 acres on Long Island about 
27 miles from the center of New York. The site is gently rolling 
vrith an elevation averaging 25 feet above sea level. The sub-soil 
drainage is good and the sandy loam soil supports a satisfactory 
205 
turf. The foundation of the permanent building was completed, 
and some structural steel was already on the site when, on 15 Octo- 
ber 1942, the work on the permanent structure was halted upon the 
recommendation of the War Production Board. During 1945, the con- 
203. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. 
204. General Files, N.H. 59. 
205. Annua’J S_um.ha.rv Report, 1943. struction of the permanent structure was resumed. The permanent hos- 
pnA 
pital is to furnish 1,000 beds for the postv/ar period. The construc- 
tion of temporary buildings was carried on throughout the War and the 
hospital comprised 77 regular wing units connected by a main corridor 
more than a mile in length. These structures were of wood frame, 
asbestos shingle siding, with oak floords. Interspersed among the 
wings were 2 subsistence buildings, a library, occupational therapy 
unit, chapel, auditorium, and. administration buildings. There were 
two-story quarters buildings for nurses, WAVES, and. corpsmen, and 
three single units for officers. At one side of the reservation, a 
group of permanent brick utility buildings was constructed. These 
include laundry, greenhouse, garage, carpenter shop, machine and 
paint shop, firehouse, incinerator, steam heating plant and gate 
207 
house. This hospital is the largest on the East Coast and. ranks 
seventh among all continental hospitals. 
Section 5. Activities of Naval Hospitals 
The routine operations of the U. S. Naval Hospital during 
the war period were carried out within an organizational framework 
similar to that existing before the War. Since the organization 
and functions of hospitals before the War have been treated in a 
previous section, this account will merely give a general description 
of various problems that arose in consequence of the stresses of war. 
206. Federal Board cf Hospitalization, Resolution l£l, 26 Feb. 1945. 
207. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1943 and 1944* Three special aspects of naval hospitals -- rehabilitation, speciali- 
zation, and transfer of patients -- are treated in separate sections. 
Expansion of the size and number of naval hospitals was 
the most obvious consoquence of the War. Another factor of Impor- 
tance was expressed by the medical officer in command of the Seattle 
Hospital: nRapid as this expansion has been, however, it is over- 
shadowed in significance by the multiplication of organized depart- 
ments within the hospital and the intense development of the manifold 
208 
activities contributing to the medical care." 
Supervision of medical care of patients was accomplished 
within the clinical branch of the hospital organization. This clini- 
209 
cal branch was divided into medical and surgical services. During 
both the pre-war and war periods, the medical service cared for the 
larger number of patients, although the number and proportion of 
surgical cases naturally rose with the arrival of battle casualties 
from overseas. At the head of the two principal services were the 
Chief of Medicine and the Chief of Surgery. The chiefs maintained 
/ 
supervision of the respective departments through the senior medical 
officers who had charge of the several departments. In many hospitals, 
periodic conferences were useful not only for the dissemination of 
professional information but also for the administrative coordination 
210 
of the departmental activities. 
208. Historical Supplement to Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. 
Naval Hospital, Pensacola, Florida, 1944. 
209. See Appendix E for charts of the general organization of hos- 
pitals; attention is also called to Section 3 of this chapter. 
210. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, Pensacola, 
Florida, 1943. A major problem in the hospitals was the necessity of making 
numerous subdivisions of departments in order to separate types of 
disease and injuries and types of personnel. The needs were often 
so unstable that a division made at a certain date would be unsuited 
for the number of types of patients received at a later date. Thus 
some departments, sections within departments, or wards would be over- 
crowded while other special divisions would have an excess cape.city. 
Multifarious subdivisions and segregations were recognized as indis- 
pensable and desirable, but the cvorchanging patient load often made 
the accompli slime nt of such divisions on an efficient basis virtually 
211 
an administrative impossibility. 
Little attention was given in the annual sanitary and his- 
torical reports to that section of the hospital concerned with general 
medicine. Overcrowding was indicated in a number of reports, espec- 
ially from Medical Department facilities near training stations or 
places which received patients with tropical diseases who had been 
212 
evacuated from areas of the South Pacific. 
The Navy vns fortunate in having no general epidemic of 
contagious disease during the War. Nearly all the hospitals reported 
large numbers of catarrhal fever cases, especially during the winter 
months; but there was no repetition of the influenza epidemic of the 
211. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, Quantico, Vir- 
ginia,. 1943; Annual Sanitary Reports from U. S. Naval Hospital, 
Bainbridge, Maryland, and U. S. Naval Hospital, Chelsea, Massa- 
chusetts, 194A* _ . 
212. Annual Sanitary Reports fren U. S. Naval Hospital, Pensacola, 
Florida, 1944; from U. S; Naval Hospital, Norman, Oklahoma, 1943; 
and from U. S. Naval Hospital, Long Beach, California 1943 and 1944. first World War. A serious disorder which originated usually in the 
United States was rheumatic fever, of which there was a rather largo 
incidence in the Pacific Northwest, especially at Farragut, Idaho. 
To moot the problem at Farragut, the afflicted were transferred to 
a more favorable climate; in time a program of prevention succeeded 
213 
in reducing the incidence of the disease. The small ratio of 
cases of contagious diseases to the total strength of the Navy was 
a considerable testimonial to the efficacy of the preventive 
medicine and sanitary control program conducted by the Navy Medical 
Department. 
Error in diagnosis, encountered particularly by the general 
medicine branch, was an administrative as well as medical problem. 
Lack of laboratory facilities in the early part of the Yfar, lack of 
time as the Far progressed, and perhaps the introduction of inex- 
perienced personnel were factors involved in this situation. The 
rate of changos of diagnosis declined in the closing part of the 
Wrr.^"^ 
A somewhat similar problem was the large number of patients 
at naval hospitals who were found unfit for service because of condi- 
tions that existed prior to induction. Some of these cases repre- 
sented recurrences of previous ailments, but many were conditions 
which might have been discovered if the time and facilities for exam- 
213. Annual Sanitary Reports fron U. S. Naval Hospital, Farragut, Idaho, 
1943 and 1944; Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 62, 
24 Sept. 1943• 
214. Annual Sanitary Reports from U. S. Naval Hospital, Newport, , 
Rhode Island, 1943 and 1944. 0 215 
illation had been greater or the examiners more skilled. J 
The neuropsychiatric department expanded rapidly in the 
average naval hospital. Few sanitary or historical reports failed 
to comment upon the extensive and speedy growth of this department. 
From an administrative standpoint, the allocation of space to this 
department was a difficult problem. Although the patients were not 
usually confined to bed and many could be assigned to double-deck 
bunks, special arrangements had to be made for certain types of cases. 
Locked wards and special rooms for violent or agitated patients had 
to be made available. The difficulties of providing facilities and 
quarters for the more serious typo of cases were increased because 
of the slow turnover of patients; admissions tended to accumulate 
faster than dispositions could be made. The special hospitals were 
able to take only a small proportion of the cases in the regular ncuro 
psychiatric wards of the naval hospitals, and they offered little re- 
lief for the overburdened departments of neuropsychiatry. The trans- 
fer of psychotic patients also took much administrative care and time 
- n 216 
of personnel. 
During the early period of the War, many reports noted that 
the greatest number of patients with neuropsychiatric diagnoses were 
recruits. Some of these men, according to the reports, had not been 
properly screened at the induction and reception stations; others 
215. Annual Sanitary Reports from U. S. Naval Hospital, Parris Is- 
land; S. 0 , 1943; and from U. Sr Naval Hospital, Marc Island, 
1944. 
216. Annual Sam vary Reports from U. S. Naval Hospital, Marc Island, 
1944; Parris Island, 1944; Philadelphia, 1944; and Federal Board 
of Hospitalization, Resolution 30, 11 June 1943. r - ' *3 
wore unable to adjust satisfactorily to military routine. Although the 
volume of recruits had begun to level off by 1944, the rate of admis- 
sions for neuropsychiatric patients continued to rise. The reports for 
1944 noted several trends in the types of patients admitted: They were 
usually (l) older men, (2) men with longer service, and (3) men of the 
regular Navy. The number of psychoses also showed some increase. 
These changes were accounted for partly by the fact that men from the 
older age groups were being drafted; partly by the fact that more men 
with disorders precipitated by fatigue, boredom, and combat experiences 
217 
were arriving in the United States for treatment and- disposition. 
Neuropsychiatric patients usually occupied from one-fourth 
to as high as two-thirds of the beds in hospitals. Although exact 
and complete statistics are not available, the percentage of patients 
returned to duty ran as high as 40 percent in some hospitals. A com- 
ment made in the annual sanitary report for 1944 from the Long Beach 
hospital is of interest because of its interpretation of one obstacle 
to returning combat fatigue cases to duty: 
It has been further observed at this activity that 
there are many factors which militate against the return 
to duty of a case of combat fatigue. Among these we have 
learned that the exposure of the individual to the current 
civilian attitude in this particular sector has been de- 
structive to those elements in his personality which consti- 
tute his morale and sense of duty. 
It is interesting to note that during the latter half 
of 1944> the majority of our admissions were from new con- 
struction and replacement centers and consisted of indivi- 
duals who had returned from combat areas approximately six 
217. Annual Sanitary Reports from U. S. Naval Hospital, Seattle, 
Washington, 1944; San Leandro, California, 1944. months prior to their admission to the sick list and 
who were filled with the imminence of return to combat 
duty. The history on these individuals indicated that 
there had been definite combat fatigue reaction prior 
to their initial return to the mainland which had assumed 
latent and dormant form during their stay within the con- 
tinental limits and been relighted during their assign- 
ments. 218 
In the early years of the War all reports indicated a marked 
increase in surgery, both because of the larger patient load and as 
a result of battle casualties. The number of wards increased and the 
organizational subdivisions multiplied. General surgery was the most 
common division. Appendectomies, tonsillectomies, and hernia opera- 
tions were the most frequent. Patients assigned to general surgery 
were usually not long in convalescence and the turnover in these wards 
was rather rapid. The parts of the surgery departments designated 
for orthopedic surgery, genito-urinary surgery, and neurological sur- 
gery were all expa.nded and became active units in most hospitals# Be- 
cause of the nature of surgical procedures, patients remained longer 
in this department than in others, and ward space was comparatively 
large for the number of persons treated in a given period. During 
the latter part of 1944 eastern hospitals began receiving sizable 
contingents of overseas casualties; a high proportion of these were 
surgical patients and the activity of this service consequently in- 
creased#^^ 
218. Annual Sanitary Report from U, S. Naval Hospital, Long Beach, 
California, 1944. 
219. Annual Sanitary Report from Canp LeJcune, 1944. 
•79 The EENT (eye, ear, nose, and throat) department was divided 
into several parts in the larger hospitals; in the smaller hospitals, 
however, it was sometimes operated as an undivided unit. In this hos- 
pital speciality, the good fortune which the Naval Reserve commonly 
had in securing the services of distinguished and reputable special- 
ists from civilian life was especially noticeable. A plethora of re- 
ports offered testimony of the high level of performance maintained 
in this department of the hospitals. 
The Navy had an established policy of caring for dependents 
whenever the service could bo instituted. This was further inple- 
, 220 
mented by a l$w passed in 1943. The method of care varied from 
hospital to hospital. Where possible, a dependent unit was provided. 
Some of these units, such as the one at San Diego, were large; others, 
such as that at Key West, were small. Arrangements for the hospitali- 
221 
zation of dependents in civilian city hospitals were commonplace. 
An historical report from the naval hospital at Jacksonville described 
what may be considered a representative dependents1 unit: 
The most recent addition to the Jacksonville Naval 
Hospital has been a modern and attractive Dependents Unit, 
This one story building is located several hundred yards 
south of the main building. It is constructed in three (3) 
sections arranged for housing obstetrical, surgical and medi- 
cal patients. The rooms are commodious and well equipped 
and many of them open on glass enclosed porches allowing the 
beds to be wheeled out into the sunshine. The operating 
and delivery rooms are modern and supplied with the latest 
medical and surgical equipment. The general appearance 
and atmosphere of the building both within and without 
220. Public Lav; 51, 78 Congress, 10 May 1943. 
221. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, Philadelphia, 
Pennsylvania, 1943. is homelike and quiet. The division is staffed by 30 
nurses and 40 waves. It represents an ideal unit for 
the care of eligible dependents of Naval personnel. 
Ambulant patients are cared for in the Out-Patient De- 
partment which occupies one of the wings of the main 
hospital. In view of the distance of the hospital from 
Jacksonville or nearby towns, transportation of depen- 
dents when necessary has been authorized. 
\ 
At hospitals located in isolated areas where few or no 
civilian medical doctors or hospital facilities were available, the 
dependents units were of special importance; a review of the reports 
indicates that their work had a salutary effect upon the morale of 
223 
Navy personnel. 
Many services essential to the operation of the Navy hospi- 
tals were only related to the care of the sick and injured in an in- 
224 
direct and supportive way. Such services as water supply, sewage 
disposal, and garbage disposal had, long before World War II, be- 
come established and regulated by a rather standardized set of cus- 
toms and regulations. They were, during the War, provided without 
much difficulty and to the general satisfaction of officials in 
charge of the hospitals. More directly related to clinical care 
and therapy in general was medical supply. Here, too, the Medical 
Department profited from a system which had long been established; 
and despite the rapidly increasing demands placed upon the supply 
depots, most of the hospitals reported that supplies were adequate. 
Some equipment was slow in procurement because of wartime shortages. 
222. Historical Supplement to Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval 
Hospital, Jacksonville, Florida, 1944. 
223. Annual Sanitary Reports from U. S, Naval Hospital, Farragut, Idaho, 
1944; from Key West, 1943. 
224. The place of these services in the internal organizational struc- 
ture of naval hospitals can be seen by consulting the charts in 
Appendix E, Annual sanitary reports during the War were often cryptic 
in their discussion of the food situation at hospitals, and the his- 
torical reports generally ignored the subject. Little or no food 
poisoning occurred at the hospitals, and the few cases that were re- 
ported were not serious. The procurement of food for a balanced and 
interesting diet was extremely difficult during the War because of 
food, shortages. Some hospitals, favorably located, had foods which 
were scarce in other parts of the country. In the Eleventh Naval Dis- 
trict hospitals were able to make joint purchases with the Army. This 
225 
cooperation raised quality and lowered cost. At other hospitals 
the "Fleet Service" organization of the supply department was used to 
advantage. In hospitals not located in conjunction with naval activi- 
226 
ties, the contract system was generally used. The most frequent 
complaint about food at the hospitals was aimed at the lack of variety 
227 
and the use of scrap meals. 
During the first three years of the War the number of persons 
on duty status increased more than three fold. In 1942, the average 
strength of personnel in U. S. Naval Hospitals was 9,536; in 1943 it 
rose to 21,131, and in 19M to 30,309. The greatest ratio of increase 
was noted in nurse personnel on hospital staffs; this group increased 
from qn average of 1,423 in 1942 to an average of 5,046 in 1944, or an 
increase of 254 percent. The number of enlisted men increased from 
225. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, San Diego, 
California, 1943. 
226. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S, Naval Hospital, Chelsea, 
1944. 
227. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, Newport, Rhode 
Island, 1943. 3v fcD . - 
6,892 in 1942 to 23,339 in 1944, or a rise of 240 percent. The in- 
crease in the number of medical officers was somewhat less--fron an 
228 
average of 1,270 in 1942 to 3,373 in 1944, or a rise of 165 percent/' 
The rate of increase in hospital staff personnel was considerably less 
than the rate of increase in the number of patients during this same 
period.229 
The annual sanitary and historical reports abound with com- 
ments upon the rapid turnover of personnel. The military necessity 
for such a turnover was recognized as unavoidable, but the effect on 
the hospitals was none the less deleterious and an acute administrative 
problem at certain times during the War. In view of the disadvantages 
of rapid turnover and the necessity of employing untrained or inex- 
perienced personnel, the quality of the work performed was considered 
highly satisfactory. 
Hospital corpsmen were often referred to as being of a "high 
type" and the performance of their duties was frequently commented upon 
favorably in the sanitary and historical reports. In the early years 
of the War enough trained men for the higher ratings were not always 
available, but by the close of the conflict this difficulty was no 
longer mentioned. Where the hospitals were inspected, favorable com- 
ments were frequently made relative to the high morale of the men. 
The advent of WAVES in hospitals was greeted with almost -• 
unanimous acclaim by medical officers in command. A report from San 
228. See Appendix B. 
229. See Appendix Q. Diego stated: "The Waves'were truly life savers and the highest credit 
230 
goes to all members of the Womens Reserve." The medical officer in 
command of the Seattle hospital was "so gratified with the Wave pro- 
gram" that he held "the conviction that Waves would be an asset to the 
231 
Navy in peace as well as in war." A report from Parris Island 
stated that the general concensus was that WAVES had satisfactorily 
232 
replaced male corpsmen. There were, of course, some medical officers 
whose opinions of the WAVES was somewhat more qualified. For example, 
the Corpus Christi hospital reported that the WAVES did good work but 
233 
that they did not have physical strength equal to that of the men. 
1 
No personnel problem was more difficult than that of pro- 
curing and holding the required number of qualified civilian workers 
in the hospitals. The wages paid to civilian employees in no way 
compared to the compensation which was current in industrial activi- 
ties. As many hospitals were located in the outer suburbs of metro- 
politan areas, or in areas far from communities, both transportation 
and housing were serious problems. As a result, frequently only 
very inefficient help was obtainable. Absenteeism and tardiness 
tendied to lessen hospital efficiency. The draft continually removed 
trained civilians and made necessary the training of new personnel. 
Morale of the civilians in the lovrer wage scale brackets was not good 
230. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, San Diego, 1944* 
231. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, Seattle, Wash- 
ington, 1944. 
232. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, Parris Island, 
South Carolina, 1944. 
233. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, Corpus Christi, 
Texas, 1943. in some places. Servicemen’s wives were employed and did excellent 
work, but because they usually resigned when their husbands were 
transferred, the turnover was great. The turnover of civilian help, 
and the retraining and replacement resulting, was a major problem 
in the clerical and commissary branches. The scarcity of properly 
trained civilian help necessitated the use of corpsmen and WAVES in 
234 
work which took them from duties for which they were trained. 
Training activities at hospitals were synchronized with the 
routine of the institutions. Because of the constant replacement of 
men sent to other stations, the training program for the new men was 
often not completed. Advancements in ratings were not only to the 
advantage of the.men but the added skills and techniques were of 
great worth to the most efficient administration of the hospital. It 
was sometimes difficult to determine whether the training division was 
a functioning hospital unit, or a training school; yet the work was so 
organized that both interests were adequately served. Part of the 
235 
teaching was done by medical officers and nurses. 
Tho training of officers was a constant problem for the hos- 
pitals. The intern system was well established and few comments were 
registered concerning its functioning. With the influx of thousands 
of doctors into the Navy, a very real problem of indoctrination was 
presented. As the turnover of officers was very fast, training and 
234. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1943, from the hospitals at St. Albans, 
Philadelphia, San Francisco, Parris Island; Annual Sanitary Reports, 
1944, from the hospitals at Oakland, San Leandra, Portsmouth, 
Pensacola.. 
235. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1943, from the hospitals at Norfolk, 
Brooklyn, San Francisco; Annual Sanitary Reports, 1944, from the 
hospitals at Parris Island, and San Diego, indoctrination in Navy methods were of a cursory nature. The demand 
for medical officers in the ever-increasing fleet drew them from the 
236 
hospitals as soon as possible. Whenever possible, an effort was 
made to teach all medical officers, irrespective of their specialties, 
to perform routine surgical procedures. This training was considered 
of primary value to medical officers who would eventually serve on the 
fighting fronts. At some hospitals officers back from overseas were 
237 
re-indoctrinated, especially in records and surveys. Many medical 
officers assigned to duty in the Pacific area and awaiting transpor- 
tation in San Francisco were given lectures and demonstrations in 
23S 
practical surgical emergencies by hospitals of the area. 
Senior medical officers at all naval hospitals received valu- 
able clinical instruction and demonstrations by competent senior medi- 
cal officers. Because of the great number and variety of cases cared 
for, there was ample clinial subject material. Such postgraduate 
239 
instruction was most beneficial to the officers concerned. 
Hospitals which conducted the Cadet Nursing program reported 
strongly in its favor. Even while in training the Cadet Nurses proved 
to be valuable assistants, sharing the ever increasing burden of patient 
n .. 240 
population. 
A routine but important sanitary problem at the hospitals 
was the control of vermin. In temporary buildings of flimsy construe- 
236. Annual Sanitary Report, 1944# from U.S. Naval Hospital, Norman, 
Oklahoma. 
237. Annual Sanitary Report,. 1944 iron U. S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, 
Illinois. 
236. Annual Sanitary Report from U.S. Naval Hospitql, San Francisco, 1944. 
239. Annual Sanitary Report from U.S. Naval Hospital, Philadelphia, 1944. 
240. Annual Sanitary Report from U.S. Naval Hospital, Oakland, 1944. 
86 tion, entirely effective control was extremely difficult. In the 
several places of the hospitals where food was served or stored, 
special precautions against the propagation of vermin had to be taken. 
The introduction of DDT in 1944 was a very real heljb in solving this 
problem, especially in the eradication of roaches, flies and mosqui- 
toes. Both the spray and the powder were found to be effective. Rats 
and mice were trapped and sodium floride was used under expert super* 
vision. The use of sodium floride, as poison, was deterred by its 
242 
being misplaced or used as a means of suicide. 
A work in all hospitals which consumed much time for both 
medical staff and patients was the preparation of medical surveys. 
1 
The meeting of boards, and the long periods of waiting for action from 
Washington created consternation in hospital administration as well as 
dissatisfaction on the part of individuals awaiting action. One medi- 
cal officer in command pointedly noted: ,fIt is becoming increasingly 
evident that more patients must be surveyed here and not passed on to 
other hospitals with the vague hope of future full or limited duty 
243 
for these patients. 
241. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S„ Naval Hospital, San Francisco, 
1944. 
242. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, Memphis, 1944* 
243. Annual Sanitary Report from U. S. Naval Hospital, Long Beach, 
1944. Section 6 Transfer of Patients 
The advisability of transferring casualty patients to hos- 
pitals near their hone naval district had long been recognized by the 
Bureau, but there viere certain difficulties of a technical nature pre- 
venting the full achievement of the policy until some time after Pearl 
Harbor. 
The usual and accepted policy was that of assigning patients 
to hospitals near the port of debarkation. However, patients, if they 
desired, might request transfer to hospitals near their homes at their 
own expense or were granted up to 60 days’ convalescent leave, with 
permission to report to a naval hospital near their home, which amounted 
to the same fundamental procedure,~ ' ’ Unfortunately the number of pat- 
ients desiring transfer was great, and although the vast majority of re- 
quests for transfer were granted, it took from five to six weeks for 
approval to be returned from the Bureau.This policy was made neces- 
sary because of regulations by the Bureau of Personnel and the Bureau of 
Supplies and Accounts which did not allow payment of such transportation 
except in individual and unusual circumstances. This policy was severe- 
246 
ly criticized by Congress and by veteran organizations. 
In the fall of 1944? the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery re- 
quested permission to authorize transportation of patients at govern- 
ment expense. The request was accepted by BuPers and the following 
244. BuPers *Ciri Ltr. No. 196-43| BuPers Ltr. Pers 630-RFT(l), 26 
Apr. 1943. 
245. Memorandums Rear Adm. Daniel Hunt, Com 12 NavDist to N. B. 
Adams, 13 Oct. 1944* 
246. Rear Adm. L. Sheldon, Acting Chief of Bureau, to Condr. Marine 
Corps via BuPers, 14 Sept. 1944. general policy was adopted covering the transfer of patients: 
1. This policy applied to all patients disabled over- 
seas. 
2. Patients were to receive transportation at govern- 
ment expense if it was expected that hospitaliza- 
tion would exceed 30 days. 
3. "For medical and psychological reasons, such trans- 
fers are not to be considered as for the convenience 
of the officer or man, but as a means to assist in 
recovery, adjustment, and final disposition." 
4. Patients were to be given convalescent leave under 
two systems, neither granting leave of more than 
30 days: 
(a) Return to same hospital--travel at own 
expense. 
(b) ..Be sent to hospital near home at govern- 
ment expense and report back there. 
5. Transfer only at request of medical officer in com- 
mand of the hospital where the man was a patient, and 
subject to the prior approval of the Bureau. This gave 
assurance of available beds at the destination and that 
adequate facilities for treatment were at hand for the 
247 
particular disease or injury of the patient. 
247. BuMed to MedOfCom, NavHosps, NavConvalRosps (Continental limits) 
by R. T Mclntire, conference 12 Oct. 1944. On 11-12 October, a discussion meeting dealing with hos- 
pitalization problems was held by the district medical officers and 
Bureau representatives. The problem was fully examined and many of 
the difficulties concerned with the inauguration of this rapidly in- 
creasing program were reconciled. A mutual understanding of the 
problems involved enabled a better coordination of effort on the part 
of both the district medical officers and the Bureau representatives 
acting on this problem. 
In October of 1944? the transfer of patients was further 
expedited by eliminating the necessity of action by a Board of Medi- 
cal Survey before transfer. The Bureau acted as the dispatching ser- 
vice, receiving requests and granting clearance if beds were avail- 
able at the desired hospital. 
To insure adequate preparation for reception of patients, 
the facility forwarding patients notified the receiving activity of 
the scheduled time of arrival, number of stretcher cases, number of 
cases requiring special attention, and all other information consid- 
2y 8 
ered relative to the best interests of the patient. 
The policy of transfer of patients was not only of medical 
and psychological value from the point of view of the patient, but 
it also provided considerable relief at a more rapid rate for the 
greatly overcrowded hospitals on the West Coast. The patient load 
of these hospitals was dangerously near the point of maximum expan- 
sion. 
248. Ibid,, conference 11-12 Oct. 1944. In December the work of transfer was still further expe- 
dited by allowing the commanding officer to issue the orders for 
travel and the disbursing officer to pay the expenses without fur- 
ther approval by BuPers, provided that the transfer had been cleared 
with BuMed to be certain that facilities were available. Copies of 
orders were then forwarded to BuPers. This change also included 
249 
travel by air. 
In order to reduce the heavy patient loads in hospitals, 
to provide beds for overseas evacuees, and to eliminate all un- 
necessary transfers, it was decided to have certain dispensaries 
retain classes of patients heretofore generally transferred to hos- 
pitals. The well trained medical officers assigned to dispensaries 
equipped with adequate facilities would also thus be afforded an op- 
portunity to apply their skill and experience. The cases to be re- 
tained were those which might require only short periods of hospitali- 
250 
zation, and general surgical procedures could be carried out there. 
The transfer of patients in the overcrowded Pacific Coast 
area was particularly facilitated by allowing the district medical 
officers of Districts 11, 12, and 13 the authority to transfer patients 
to hospitals within any of these three districts without reference to 
the Bureau. This was effected by clearing patients through the In- 
spector, Pacific Coast. Transfer to eastern hospitals would still be 
made through the Hospital Division of the Bureau. 
249. BuPer Cir. Ltr. No. 367 to All Ships and Stations, 11 Dec. 1944. 
250. BuMed to All District Medical Officers, 11 Dec. 1944. In February of 1945, the entire program was summarized 
and reevaluated in a joint letter by BuMed, BuPers and Marine Corps. 
The points have largely been outlined above, but a few new factors 
were stressed. The mode of travel was made a matter of local de- 
cision. Although in most cases a Board of Medical Survey is not 
necessary, it is required in the case of psychotic patients, and 
upon such a survey the commanding officer may take final action on 
transfer to another naval hospital or to the U. S. Public Health 
Service Hospital, Fort Worth, Texas. Copies of the report and orders 
are sent to the Bureau for record purposes. 
Transfer to non-naval hospitals must be sanctioned by BuMed, 
BuPers, or the Bferine Corps. This is the procedure to be followed 
in admitting patients to Army and Navy hospitals at Hot Springs, 
Arkansas, and the Georgia Warm Springs Foundation. When BuMed re- 
ceives requests for transfer such requests are approved or modified 
according to the availability of beds, and notice is sent to the re- 
ceiving facility. The transferring activity informs the receiving 
activity well in advance of the scheduled time of arrival, the number 
of ambulatory, convalescent, and stretcher cases, and the number of 
cases requiring special handling. 
In March of 1945* the same general policy was adopted in 
regard to forwarding patients requiring special treatment to hospitals 
which afforded such treatment. This expodited the movement of patients 
251. Joint Letter—BuMed, Mar Corps, BuPers to All Ships and Stations, 
21 Feb. 1945, by allowing transfer to be made with as little paper work and a few 
exchanges of communication as possible with proper regard to adequate 
252 
facilities for their receipt. 
Starting about 1 May 1945, nil hospitals on the West Coast 
✓ 
were requested to send daily reports of vacant beds to the Inspector, 
Medical Department Activities, West Coast, These reports, sent by 
telegram or teletype, enabled the inspector to better route patients 
coming into the country from overseas. Transfers between naval hos- 
pitals and naval convalescent hospitals were from that time forth 
to be made through the inspector and not through the Bureau. Requests 
for transfer by air were, in addition, to be cleared through the dis- 
trict commandant. The commandant continued, as formerly, to trans- 
fer patients within the district upon the advice of the district medi- 
253 
cal officer. 
Transfer of patients involves transportation, and transpor- 
tation in war tine is a major problem. The dispatching of patients 
by air was difficult chiefly because of the lack of space. Rail trans- 
portation was frequently uncertain as to time of arrival. This was 
a particular trial to the receiving facility. The train commander 
was supposed to notify the receiving facility of delays, but occasionally 
this was not done promptly. The number of hospital attendants and 
ambulances needed for stretcher cases was a serious problem, for the 
252. BuMed to MedOfCom, NavHosps, 20 Mar. 1945. 
253. Commander Western Sea Direction N9-WSF-CL, Serial 3591, 
26 Apr. 1945. drafts of patients were frequently large.^54 
The hospital trains had to be especially serviced with food 
and even a special heating problem arose when they were delayed in 
255 
some railroad yards. 
The transfer of patients to hospitals near their homes 
greatly raised their morale. It aided also in their chance of re- 
covery by placing them in hospitals specializing in their own parti- 
cular infirmity. This policy was necessary in order to distribute 
the great load of patients accumulating on the Rest Coast. On all 
points it proved a success, even though it involved principles and 
procedures in variance with established custom. 
The problem of receiving overseas patients for distribution 
to hospitals in this country was centralized chiefly in two ports of 
debarkation—New York for the East Coast and San Francisco for the 
ITest Coast. The Inspector, Medical Department Activities, Pacific 
Coast, acted as to the routing of the evacuees. Patients to be hos- 
pitalized in the 11th or 13th Naval Districts were dispatched to those 
hospitals by air, train or bus. This policy of centralization, though 
no doubt expedient in a number of respects, was strongly criticized. 
nThe port authorities, as I see it, seem to handle casualties as they 
do freight, and it does not seem expedient to them to disembark patients 
in San Diego. 
254. Memorandum, W.J.C. Agnew, from G. C. Thomas, 14 May 1945. 
255. From MedOfCom, Hospital Train to Chief, Bureau Supplies and 
Accounts, 30 May 1945. 
256. From Rear Adm. G. C. Thomas, (MC), USN, (Ret.), to Vice Adm- 
R. T Mclntire, 13 Mar. 1944. Section 7 Specialization in Hospitals 
Malignancy 
Prior to the War, all malignant patients were sent to the 
U. S. Naval Hospital, Brooklyn. For special treatment, patients were 
transferred to Memorial Hospital, New York. A contract between the' 
Navy and that hospital provided for treatment and hospitalization dur- 
ing treatment for short periods, usually about 10 days. As the govern- 
ment had a deposit of radium at the hospital, no charge for its use 
was made—an arrangement which made the hospital most convenient for 
257 
the Navy. 
During the War, new techniques introduced in the treatment 
of cancer required a longer period of care at the Memorial Hospital 
and in 1943 a new agreement was made to cover this necessity. The 
staff of Memorial was most cooperative and their extensive consul- 
tant work for the Navy, v/ithout any compensation whatever, was most 
helpful. One of the advantages for the patient was his psycholo- 
gical reaction upon being given diagnostic and medical treatment at 
a world renowned center for such treatment. Actually much of the 
work was accomplished at the Brooklyn Naval Hospital and a number of 
the medical officers at that institution had formerly been staff mem- 
bers at Memorial Hospital. With these reserve officer specialists 
available, the Brooklyn Hospital was able to enlarger its field of 
257. Manual of the Medical Department, paragraph 2176; Memorandum to 
Capt. Ov/en, (MC), USN, from Mr. IT. S. Douglass, Chief Clerk, 
30 Oct. 1941. activity. During the War, considerable equipment designed for the 
258 
treatment of malignancy was installed at Brooklyn. 
The problem on the eastern seaboard v/as further alleviated 
during the War by cooperation with Rockefeller Institute of Medical 
Research in New York, which cooperated with research on unusual 
259 
cases. The establishment of the National Naval Medical Center, 
Bethcsda, provided additional beds and trained staff for this type 
of disease. Bethesda v/as commissioned in February of 1942 and was 
260 
continually increasing its facilities. 
On the West Coast, San Diego v/as officially classified as 
a center for treatment, although in reality it only served as a con- 
261 
centration center for shipment to Brooklyn. The long trip from 
the West Coast to Brooklyn was considered to be particularly depres- 
sing to patients traveling away from friends and family for treatment. 
Even before the War, serious consideration was given to establishing 
a similar center on the Pacific Coast. Both the Los Angeles Tumor 
Institute and the Swedish Hospital at Seattle were under considora- 
tion. ~ Because of pressing general hospitalization needs, this pro- 
ject was not implemented until the spring of 1943 when Corona was 
designated as a cancer center and a contract v/as arranged v/ith the 
258. Capt. G. E. Robertson, (MC), USN, to Rear Adm. D. G. Sutton, (MC), 
USM, 8 Dec. 1943. 
259. Annual Sanitary Report, Brooklyn, 1943, 1944. 
260. Chief BuMed to MedOfinCom, Brooklyn, 26 Mar. 1942. 
261. Manual of the Navy Medical Department, paragraph 2177. 
262. Dr. Albert D. Suiland, Los Angeles Tumor Institute, to Surgeon 
General, 10 July 1941; DistMedOf 13th NavDist to Capt. Luther 
Sheldon, Jr., (MC), USN, 3 Oct. 1941. Los Angeles Tumor Institute. In July, Long Beach was designated to 
act as the hospital serving patients under treatment as it was 
nearer the Institute than Corona. Army patients were also serviced 
under the same contract. From the date of establishment of the 
cancer center, all patients in the 11th, 12th and 13th Naval Districts 
were cared for without necessity of transfer across the 
Because of the increase in the size of the naval service, 
the patients afflicted by this particular typo of illness increased 
more than 200 percent during the first year of the War and remained 
a serious problem for the duration. The adequate provisions taken by 
the Medical Department prior to the War, and the flexibility of modi- 
fying that program to meet the increased demand, enabled the Depart- 
mont to meet the need. 4 
As was the case with the care of patients with malignant 
diseases, there was an established pattern functioning at the beginning 
of the War for handling psychotic cases. After Pearl Harbor, the ex- 
cessive growth of the Navy necessitated great expansion of facilities, 
but little change in general organizational procedures took place. 
Individuals giving evidence of being psychotic cases were 
transferred from their regular duty station to naval hospitals. All 
Psychotic Cases 
263. Chief BuMed to MOinCcc Corona, 28 Feb. 1943; MedOfinCom, Corona, 
to Chief Bulged, 19 Mar. 1943; Chief BuMed to MOinCom, Corona, 1 
Apr. 1943; Chief BuMed to DMO, 11th, 12th, 13th NavDist, 8 July 
1943. 
264. To BuMed from MOinCom, Brooklyn, 26 Nov. 1943; Chief BuMed to 
MOinCom NavHosps, NavConvalHosps, 20 Mar. 1945. 
97 hospitals had wards especially set aside for this type of patient, 
who was confined and segregated from other patients. At the hos- 
pital they were treated by members of the staff specializing in men- 
tal diseases and were given a period of treatment to determine the 
nature and extent of their problem. Patients who were to require a 
long period of treatment and observation wore transferred to Washing- 
265 
ton, D. C., or Mare Island, California. Patients who appeared to 
require permanent care or a longer period of observation were trans- 
ferred to St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, District of Columbia, upon recom- 
mendation of a board of medical survey. This facility is especially 
equipped and organized to care for and'treat psychoties. It receives 
266 
patients from the armed services and certain veteran cases. 
The increased patient load of psychotics was absorbed in 
several ways. One of the most important was the large number retained 
at regular naval hospitals, particularly those observed during initial 
training activities. Sanitary reports from all hospitals during the 
war years reflect the great increase in patient load made up of psy- 
chotics and the corresponding growth <vf physical plant and staff for . 
their caro. I • 
hospital organization in growth. 
The establishment of the National Naval Medical Center offered 
greatly increased facilities over the Washington naval hospital which 
it replaced, Mare Island not only expanded on its own compound with 
265. Manual of the Medical Department. paragraph 2154. 
266. Manual of the Medical Department. paragraph 2155. temporary facilities, but through the agreement with the Napa State 
Hospital, discussed in the section on Physical Plant, was enabled to 
26V 
give excellent care to a greatly increased number. 
Previous to the War, in cases of emergency, the Navy was a 
party to an arrangement whereby the facilities of the Public Health 
Service Hospitals were made available, and the Bureau was billed for 
26S 
the hospitalization charge. During the War, a U. S. Navy Unit was 
established at the U. S. Public Health Service Hospital, Fort Y/orth, 
Texas. The Unit served as the administrative control and by the end 
of 1944 bad 11 doctors and 13S corpsmen on its staff. In addition, 
there were 136 positions filled by Public Health personnel. During 
the year 1943, the Unit admitted 1,156 patients and during 1944, 2,041. 
The rate of increase continued the same into 1945. 
Air transport of psychotic patients was found to be greatly 
superior to rail. It saved time of nursing care and the handling of 
smaller drafts was more satisfactory. This service initiated in 
269 
February of 1944. A special type of car which could be treated 
as a locked ward was used for rail transfer of groups to Fort Worth, 
270 
or wherever needed. It was referred to as the "prison car." Start- 
ing with the summer of 1944, Navy patients were transferred to Veterans’ 
Administration facilities near their homes or those of relatives upon 
the request of these relatives. They were always patients who were 
267. Mare Island, Sanitary Reports, 1942, 1943, 1944. 
26S. Manual of the Medical Department. paragraph 2172. 
269. Annual Sanitary Report, U. S. Navy Unit, U. S. Public Health Ser- 
vice Hospital, Fort Worth, Texas, 1944. 
270. Capt. J. P. Owens, (MG), USN, to Capt. C. L. Andrus, (MC), USN, 
22 Dec. 1944. 271 
considered to be in need of extended hospitalization. 
The three major administrative changes v/ere extensive use 
of non-naval facilities, the' transporting of patients by air 
whenever possible, and the policy of transferring patients to. facili- 
272 
ties near relatives. 
Poliomyelitis 
The Navy specilized program for the treatment of poliomye- 
litis grew from a policy of close cooperation uith the Warm Springs 
Foundation. This service on the part of the Foundation was made 
273 
available to the Navy prior to Pearl Harbor. For the first year 
and a half of the War, the problem was not pressing as there uere 
fortunately very feu cases of this disease. The Foundation set aside 
5 beds for the use of the Navy and this proved ample. In fact, from 
274 
November 1942 to March 1943 there v/ere no admissions at all. * 
After October of 1943, the load increased rapidly and by 
the end of 1944 the Navy uas using the 40 beds which were then assigned 
to Navy personnel. This increase of available beds was made possible 
by expansion of the Foundation's facilities, and by their generous 
allocation of beds for Navy use. About one-third of the hospital's 
capacity uas being utilized by the Navy. From time to time it was 
271. Bui-led Ltr., 4 Apr. 1944; Annual Sanitary Report, U. S. Public 
Health Service Hospital, Fort Worth, Texas, 19^4* 
272. State Hospital, Napa; Public Health Service Hospital, Fort Worth; 
St. Hospital, D. C.; Veterans' Administration. 
273. Chief BuMed t-c MedOfinCom, Washington, 30 Oct. 1941# 
274. Surgeon General to Mr. Basil O'Conner—Chairman, Executive Com- 
mittee, Warm Springs Foundation, 15 Dec. 1942. 
100. necessary to delay transfer of patients because of the overcrowding 
275 
of the hospital. 
With the considerable group of Navy patients at the hospi- 
tal, certain problems resulted which made it advisable to establish 
a Navy unit at the facility. The Navy patients had no military super- 
vision and broke hospital rules relative to use of intoxicating bev- 
erages on the compound and leaving on unauthorized liberty. This 
disregard of hospital regulations on the part of Navy personnel 
brought unfavorable comments from other patients as well as from the 
276 
staff. The Surgeon General immediately suggested the establish- 
ment of the naval unit, a move which was appreciated by the Founda- 
tion and also served to relievo the staff of that institution of some 
of their work with naval patients. The unit was established on 20 
March 1945. Some difficulty was experienced in finding quarters be- 
cause of wartime crowding, but its work was soon integrated with that 
of the Foundation. The relations throughout the War were of a friend- 
277 
ly and mutually cooperative nature.' 
From the time of the commissioning of U. S. Naval Hospital, 
Corona, poliomyelitis patients on the West Coast were sent to this 
278 
facility for care pending transfer to Warm Springs. In January of 
275. Dr. C. E. Irwin, Chief Surgeon, Warn Springs Foundation, to BuMed, 
14 Dec. 1943? Mono from Dr. C. E. Irwin to BuMed, 11 Dec. 1944* 
276. Dr. C. E. Irwin, Chief Surgeon, Warm Springs Foundation, to Vice 
Adm. Ross T Mclntire, (MC), USN, 19 Feb. 1945. 
277. Surgeon General to Dr. C. E. Irwin, 3 Mar. 1945; Dr. C. E. Irwin 
to Surgeon General, 7 Mar. 1945; Ross T Mclntire to Mr. Basil 
CMConner, 26 Mar. 1945; SecNav ltr, 45-272, 20 Mar. 1945. 
273. dipt, Luther Sheldon?Jr., (MG), USN, to Capt. H. L. Jensen, (MG), 
USN, 15 Dec. 1942. 1944y 'the Bureau made a resurvey of the facilities at Corona for the 
care of these patients. Facilities for treatment were adequate and 
with the transfer of trained personnel it was possible to designate 
this hospital, on 15 February 1944? as a center for special treatment 
2 79 
of poliomyelitis for the West Coast. ' 
With the two units operating, the care of patients with this 
disease was adequate. The benefit of the cooperative use of certain 
facilities was again demonstrated as was the efficient use of espec- 
ially qualified reserve medical officers. 
r 
Amputation Cases 
In this field of specialization the U. S. Naval Hospitals 
at Mare Island and Philadelphia achieved outstanding success and made 
many important contributions to the advancement of the science and 
art of equipping amputees with serviceable limbs. Great advances 
were also made in the training of patients in the correct and normal 
usage of these artificial limbs. The program grew from the grave 
necessities of the war situation and was greatly aided by civilian 
assistance and a number of reserve officers particularly interested 
in the problem. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Mare Island, was established and 
designated as a center for amputation cases and the furnishing of arti- 
280 
f'icial limbs. The program was the outgrowth of the needs incurred 
279. MedOfinCom, Corona, to Chief BuMed, 12 Jan. 1944; Chief Bulled to 
MedOfinCom, NavHosp, NavConvalHosp 11th, 12th, 13th NavDist., 15 
Feb. 1944. 
280, Inspector Naval Medical Dept. Activities, Pacific Coast, ComOf 
NavHosp*. 11th, 12th, 13th NavDist, P4-3/NH15, 13 Aug. 1943. immediately after Peqrl Harbor when the hospital had no facilities to 
do the work. The local San Francisco manufacturers of limbs were of 
little help and were reluctant to include a pylon, the training and 
shaping device, in their bids for contracts to make limbs. Further- 
more, patients were forced to take numerous trips for fittings. "The 
matter of braces such as walking calipers, etc., was impossible. The 
patients wore not physically able to go to San Francisco for their 
281 
braces and again the dealers were reluctant to come to the hospital."'' 
Mr. Matthew Lawrence had formerly been the bracemaker for 
the orthopedic surgeon of this hospital. During the early months of 
the War, he brought his own tools and materials to the hospital each 
Saturday. Under his direction the Navy developed an articulated pylon 
which greatly assisted patients in learning to walk. Under his direc- 
tion also, experiments were made with plastics, with the active co- 
operation of the Bakelite Corporation. 
In December of 1942, one of the shops in the Navy yard gave 
•$800.00 to the hospital for use in establishing a brace shop. This 
gesture aroused great enthusiasm and a sum of several thousand dol- 
lars was contributed. By March the brace shop was making all the 
splints, walking calipers, braces and pylons used by the orthopedic 
department. One ambulatory patient worked full time, and Mr. Lawrence 
cane two days per week, without pay. With the designation of the hos- 
281. Historical Supplement, Marc Island, 1943. pita 1 r.s amputation center, the name of the shop was changed to 
Artificial Linb Department. Mr. Lawrence was placed on civil ser- 
vice at full time, and ten enlisted men were employed at the 
The hospital could now handle up to 150 amputation patients. ? This 
expansion was made possible by money from the welfare fund and other 
gifts. 
Of particular importance in the success of this project 
was the close cooperation among patient, doctor, and bracenaker. Un- 
der the direction of Lieutenant Commander Toffelnier, (DC), USNR, the 
orthopedic surgeon, a plastic leg was designed and manufactured at a 
cost of only $30.25. This was far under current prices and was con- 
sidered by the Bureau to be superior. Patient and public reaction to 
the Navy!s work was also very favorable, as the leg was lighter and 
more easily made than others obtainable. 
In December of 1943, the transfer of patients to this cen- 
ter was greatly facilitated by an order allowing the transfer of am- 
putation cases upon the recommendation of the commanding officer of 
hospitals in the 11th, 12th, and 13th Naval Districts without the 
285 
necessity of a board of survey. The U. P. Naval Hospital, Phila- 
delphia, was designated to receive amputation cases from the remain- 
ing continental naval districts, 29 March 1944, and after May patients 
282. Historical Supplement, Mare Island, 1943. 
283. Telegram, NavHosp, Mare Island, to Bulled, 25 Sept. 1943. 
2o4. Memorandum for Capt. John Harper, (MC), USN> from C. L. Andrus 
22 Oct. 1943; Historical Supplement, 1943* 
285. BuPers to Com 11 and Com 12, 4 Dec. 1943. were transferred to this center from the East Coast districts without 
286 
surveys, 
During 1944, the cooperation on the part of artificial limb 
manufacturers was much better, and the artificial limb departments 
specialized in the manufacture of plastic limbs and more fre- 
quently turned to commericial concerns which held patents on joints 
and similar necessary parts for the more extensive production of com- 
, . , - 287 
plete arms and legs. 
By 1945, the centers for amputation cases at Mare Island 
and Philadelphia had large, smoothly operating artificial limb de- 
partments, which received very favorable recognition from the Committee 
on Prosthetic Limbs of the National Research Council. The medical pro- 
cedures, in which the Navy had always excelled, were being further de- 
veloped and instructions were sent to advance units with suggestions 
for procedures which would facilitate the later rehabilitation of the 
patient. ° The Medical Department also contributed to a number of 
conferences in coordinating the work of the armed services and in 
mutual exchange of experience. In the summer of 1945, Great Lakes 
wa.s notified of plans to make it an amputation center and at the close 
289 
of the War operations were under way, y 
The rehabilitation service at these centers was of great 
286. Bulled ltr. 44-365, P4-3/NH(082), 29 filar. 1944; Chief BuPers to 
Com 1-9 NavDist,Potomac River Naval Command and Severn River 
Naval Command, 4 May 1944* 
287. Chief BuMed to MOinCon^Philadelphia, 29 June 1944; MOinCora, Mare 
Island, to Chief BuMed, 17 Aug. 1944. 
288. MOinCom, Philadelphia, to Chief Bui,led, 18 June 1945. 
289. Great Lakes, Cumulative Report, 1945. significance. Particular attention to:.s given to teaching the patient 
how to use the limb properly. A booklet entitled Plotting Your Course 
was the result of experience in this work, and filns on the subject 
were available. Of special importance was the assistance rendered by 
individuals who had lost a limb and who by speech and example did much 
to raise the morale of patients. Those patients who were well on the 
way for release were an ever-present testimonial of possible achieve- 
ment. The Red Cross sent private citizens and representatives who had 
artificial limbs, yet were living normal and successful lives to the 
hospitals to service as examples of achievement. This did much to 
290 
raise the morale of patients. 
Patients were transferred to the centers as soon after ampu- 
tation as it was practicable for them to travel. They wore sent to 
the center nearest their homes. They stayed until they were healed. 
and a permanent limb had been fitted to the satisfaction of both the 
291 
patient and the hospitals staff. 
One of the common routines of life is the driving of a car. 
Amputees were afforded an opportunity to learn this art through the co- 
operation of manufacturers in lending properly equipped cars to the 
hospitals. Assurance was also given that cars properly equipped would 
292 
be available after patients had been discharged. 
290. Vice Adm. Ross T Mclntire to Robert E. Bondy, American Red Cross, 
21 June 1945. 
291. Chief Bulled to MOinCom, NavHosps, NavConvalHosps, 20 Mar. 1945; 
Chief Bulled to Hon. Harry L, Towe, 6 Nov. 1945. 
292. S. E. Skinner, Gen. Mgr. Oldsnobile Corp. to Vice Adm. Ross T 
Mclntire, 17 Sept. 1945; John S. Bugas, Gen. Mgr. Ford Motor 
Corp, to Vice Adm. Ross T Mclntire, 23 Aug. 1945. In addition to the linb furnished by the Navy, the amputee 
was assured a second prothesis by the Veterans’ Bureau, so in case 
293 
one was borken a spare would be available for the emergency. 
The program of establishing the brace center at Hare Island, 
which initiated this particular policy, was the result of individuals’ 
doing work beyond their line of duty. The civilian brncenaker, the 
orthopedic surgeon, a eserve officer, and the eight other reserve of- 
ficers associated with them in this work went far beyond the require- 
ment of regulations. The cooperation of the commanding officer enabled 
them to create a new and vital service for the Navy which by the end 
of the War was one of the items viewed with satisfaction by the Depart- 
ment. Early in 1943, when the project was brought to the attention 
of the Surgeon General, it received his ready and continued assistance. 
Its spread to Philadelphia and Great Lakes reflects this interest. 
Deafness 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Philadelphia, was designated as 
a reception center in July of 1944 for all cases of deafness in the 
Navy and Marine Corps. Patients were transferred to the facility as 
soon as it was determined, by standard procedures, that such deafness 
existed. The immediate transfer v/as followed so that corrective 
measures might be taken and rehabilitation begun at once. Because 
of the obvious danger to hearing involved, travel by air was not allowed 
293. Chief Bulled to Lied Of Con, NnvHosp', Philadelphia, Pa.,. 5 Nov. ,1943. for such cases.Patients were brought before a board of medical 
survey, which recommended their transfer to Philadelphia when it was 
considered expedient. 
Preparation for the inauguration of tho program was under- 
taken in April, and a survey of naval hospitals was made to determine 
the extent of the problem. Even during this formative period, patients 
were transferred to Philadelphia and work was started on the program.^95 
During the late spring and early summer, a number of nation- 
ally recognized specialists in lip reading and the rchabiliation of the 
hard of hearing were brought to Philadelphia and we re frequently given 
commissions. Individuals already in the service, with special train- 
ing in tho field, were also transferred to this center. 
Patients were not taught the sign language, but are all furn- 
ished an opportunity to acquire proficiency in lip reading and are 
given speech correction to overcome faulty methods of speech. It 
should be remembered that these patients cano into the sorvicc with 
normal phonntion and. their problems of speech are not the same as in 
cases where deafness came early in life. The Navy furnished aids in 
all cases where they would be of servied. The contracts for these ap- 
pliances were made with local dealers, who furnished an especially 
molded earpiece and other necessary equipment. This method was found 
294• Chief BuMed to MedOfCom, NavHosps, NavConvalHosps, 20 Liar. 1945; 
Chief Bulged to MedOfCom, NavHosps, NavConvalHosps, 5 July 1944. 
295. Rear Adn. L. Sheldon, Jr., (MC), USN, Acting Chief of Bureau, to 
Capt. J. W. Miller, (MC), USN, MOinC Philadelphia, 14 Apr. 1944; 
Chief BuMed to MedOfCon, NavHosps, NavConvalHosps, Senior MO, 
Major Shore Stations, 2 May 1944. 
296. To Chief BuPers fron Chief BuMed, 19 May 1944; MOinC, NavHosp, 
Philadelphia, to Chief BuMed, 19 May 1945. 297 
to bo particularly advantageous during ehc early period of expansion. 
Early in 1945, there was considerable unavoidable overcrowding 
at Philadelphia. A 500-bed expansion was obtained, which relieved this 
condition. Expansion of the program by establishing a unit on the West 
Coast was under consideration at the close of the War. More careful 
classification of cases sent to the center also hleped in solving the 
problem.298 
The patients were practically all ambulatory and in good 
physical condition. They needed physical training, occupational thera- 
py and recreation in conjunction with improvement of their mental out- 
look and hastening recovery. The shock experienced by deaf patients 
is similar to that which all who suffer suddent and unexpected handi- 
caps experience. Part of the problem of adjustment- on the acquiring 
299 
of skills is psychological as well as physical. Hov/ever, the Phila- 
delphia hospital had ver limited recreation facilities and very inade- 
quate occupational therapy equipment. For these reasons, serious con- 
sideration was given to moving the center to U. S. N. Special Hospital, 
Asbury Park, v/here such facilities were ample. It was felt that the 
care there could be as adequate as at Philadelphia because "the personnel 
who care for these patients are usually Hospital Corps officers, WAVES 
especially trained to give lip reading instructions, etc., and very few 
297. MedOfinCon, Philadelphia, to Chief Bulled, 28 Feb. 1945. 
298. MedOfinCon. NavHosp, Philadelphia to Chief Bulled, 21 Mar. 3-945. 
299. To Lt. (jg) Ben E. Hoffneyer, D(S), US NR, USS BOYD (DD544), 
from Capt. Howard H. Montgonory, (MC), USN. 
109 doctors whose principal function is administrative.” This group of 
specialists and patients could be moved without inconvenience to the 
Philadelphia hospital.Because of other administrative complica- 
tions, however, this move was not made. 
In the first ten months of operation, this unit treated 
1,456 patients. Some 468 were discharged from the hospital, 848 to 
civilian life. At that time 1,141 hearing aids had already been de- 
livered. 
At first some 45 patients could be completely and carefully 
examined each week; later when an addition was furnished, over 60 
301 
admissions per week were examined. The aural rehabilitation program 
of the Navy resulted from the advisability of concentrating patients 
in one locality for rehabilitation. Because of physical limitations 
of space and equipment, the full rehabiliation program of physical 
training, occupational therapy, and educational therapy, and educa- 
tional service could not be accomplished. However, the program directly 
relating to hearing aids, lip reading, and remedy of speech defects 
v/as adequate. The program was almost entirely the work of specialists 
brought into the Navy for the purpose and made specialist officers of 
the Hospital Corps and WAVES. Every report indicates they did a satis- 
factory piece of work. 
300* Memorandum: Como. C. L. Andrus, (IIC), USN, to Professional 
division, 29 Apr. 1945. 
301. MOinC, NavHosp, Philadelphia, to Chief of Bulled, 28 May 1945. 
no. Blindness 
The problem of handling blindness in the Navy is similar to 
that of deafness. It is the result of accidents, casualties in battle 
and other causes. Eighteen percent of patients admitted blind were 
in that condition as the result of drinking methyl alcohol. In ad- 
dition, an average of one other died for each blinded. The medical 
service at all hospitals is competent to handle all clinical problems 
and specialization of treatment is largely a rehabilitation problem. 
Until the end of 1943, the number of blind patients was not 
large enough to justify extensive and specialized facilities. At that 
time an agreement was made with the Army whereby patients could be 
transferred to Letternan General Hospital or Valley Forge where they 
received both medical treatment and social adjustment. At the end of 
303 
this time, the naval patient was returned to the naval hospital. 
The patients were transferred to Philadelphia for regulation care and 
transferred to the Army facility only for certain specialized treat- 
ments. By May of 1944, the Army facilities were so overcrowded that 
some Navy patients were being held at Philadelphia who would ordinarily 
be transferred. 
In the summer of 1944, the rehabiliation program and social 
adjustment procedures were inaugurated at Philadelphia, and coordinated 
302. MedOfinCon, Philadelphia, to Chief BuMed, 24 Jan. 1943. 
303. Commandant 12th NavDist ModOfinCom, NavHosp, 12th Dist, 13 Jan. 
1944. work with the Veterans' Administration was further implemented. It 
was at this time that the Office of Rehabilitation was established 
304 
in the Bureau. The supervisor for the blind of the Veterans' Admin- 
istration was most helpful in assiting the Navy in placing in opera- 
tion a smoothly functioning program. The cooperation between the Navy 
305 
and the Veterans' Administration proved advantageous. 
TJith this consolidation of activities, the transfer tc Army 
facilities was no longer necessary. Immediate transfer to Philadel- 
phia from other hospitals was made so that the social adjustment pro- 
306 
gram could begin at once for each patient. 
Patients were sent to the New York Institute for the Educa- 
tion of the Blind for a period of two weeks' training, at the close of 
their basic training. Such training was a psychological help, as well 
as assisting patients to learn vocational aptitudes. 
Interested civilians made possible the gift of a portable 
typewriter to each blind veteran upon his release, if he had learned 
to use the machine. 
Rheumatic Fever 
Two hospitals were designated as special centers for the 
care of rheumatic fever. U. S. Naval Hospital, Corona,, was officially 
designated 3 March 1944 and U. S. Naval Hospital, Dublin, received 
304. Ltr. from Surgeon General to Administrator of Veterans1 Affairs, 
23 Oct. 1944. 
305. Surgeon General to Administrator of Veterans' Affairs, 22 June 1944. 
306. Chief Bulled to MedOfinCom, NavHosp, NavConvaIHosp, SMO Shore Stations. 
307. MedOfinCom, Philadelphia, to Chief BuMod, 5 Aug. 1944; Chief BuMod 
to MedOfinCom, Philadelphia, IS Aug. 1944* 
30S. Chief BuMod to MOinCom, Philadelphia, 29 Jan. 1945. the sane designation at the time of commissioning on 22 January 
309 
1945. These particular sites were selected in two sections of 
the country within areas where there was a low incidence of stret- 
tococcus infections. Great care was used in selecting doctors and 
staff well trained in this particular field. 
The program was inaugurated unofficially during the summer 
of 1943, when U. S. Naval Hospital, Farragut, was faced with the pro- 
310 
blen of caring for more than 1,000 rheumatic fever patients. In 
the northern part of the country the incidence of readmission was 
high, so patients were sent to the dry warn climate of Corcna. 
For this large number, special trains were used. The entire Navy 
suffered a considerable rise in cases of this type, and effective 
312 
steps were taken to lower the rate. In September a conference was 
held by a group of scientists at the Bureau and a program of control 
was devised. By October the Streptococcal Control Porgram was under- 
way under trained personnel and an epidemiology unit was established 
at Farragut. These controls soon resulted in a very considerable re- 
duction of the incidence of the disease. 
In December of 1943, a eareful survey of facilities available 
was made. The selection of Corona, and Dublin for the specialization 
314 
amply demonstrated the foresight of the recommendation of the survey. 
309. To MedOfinCon, NavHosp, NavConva1H o sps, SMO Shore Stations from 
Chief BuMed, 3 Mar. 1944; From SocNav to Hon. W. Loe O’Daniel, 
11 Jan. 1945. 
310. Chief Bulled to Chief BuPers, 8 July 1943. 
311. EOinC, USNavHosp, Farragut, to Chief Bulged, 18 June 1943. 
312. Surgeon General to Dr. Thomas D. Dublin, Long Island College of 
Medicine, 18 Dec, 1943. 
313. Surgeon General to Hon. Harold C. Hagen, 23 Feb. 1944. 
314. Memo for Comdr. Carter from Lt. Condr. Alvin F. Coburn, 30 Doc. 1943. A program for rapid transportation by air was inaugurated 
with excellent cooperation with NATS. Patients in continental hos- 
pitals were moved to Corona and taken to Dublin as soon as the pre- 
sence of the disease was established. The patients transported by 
air were given a high priority to ensure their speedy removal. 
A very careful procedure for care of patients was brought into being 
and soon proved most effective. All patients beyond continental 
limits were returned by Patients were either released from 
the Navy on recovery or assigned to duty in areas of low streptococcal 
incidence. Because of this policy, the Navy experienced little recur- 
317 
rencd. Before return to duty or release, the patients were given 
a long period of care and study. If recurrence did develop, the patient 
was discharged from service upon recovery. 
Tuberculosis 
Specialization for care of this disease came when the build- 
ing at Corona for tubercular patients was completed in the summer of 
1943. The hospital was officially designated as a unit to receive 
319 
tuberculosis patients on 29 July 1943• It has been the policy of 
the Bureau to locate patients in v/arm, dry areas. Corona has an ex- 
cellent climate for care of tubercular patients and its establishment 
was a logical outgrowth of this As the care of tuberculosis 
*315. MedOfinCom, NavHosp, Jacksonville, 20 Apr. 1944. 
316. ALNAV 47, 44-271, 6 Mar. 1944. 
317. Chief BuMed to Chief BuPers, 4 Apr. 1944. 
318. Surgeon General to Hon. Robert V/agner, 2 Nov. 1945. 
319. Chief BuMed to NavHosp, NavConvalHosp, 29 July 1943. 
320. Annual Sanitary Report, Corona, 1943. patients requires the maximum space between beds, it was necessary 
to start construction to double the bed capacity to meet increased 
patient load. The original 240 beds were increased to a total of 5'C0 
in January of 1945.^^ 
In March of 1945, the facilities at U, S. Naval Hospital, 
Sampson, became available because of the lessening of the training 
program at the training station located there. As a result, this 
facility was designated to care for tubercular patients in the Eastern 
United States, By the close of the War, the unit had a staff of 9 
tuberculosis specialists and nearly 1,000 patients and grew from 1 to 
12 wards. 
Surgery was performed on approximately 25 percent of the 
tubercular patients. At Sampson, delay in the arrival of equipment 
322 
postponed some of this vital vrork. 
The medical procedures used were standard. Concentration of 
staff and patients for more adequate care was the purpose of establish- 
ing these units. Patients were transferred to Sampson as soon as prac- 
ticable for treatment, care, and disposition.^^ 
Neurosurgery and Plastic Surgery 
As the names indicate, these two specialties were primarily 
surgical problems rather than administrative. At the close of the War, 
321. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 74? 8 Oct. 1943; Annual 
Sanitary Report, Cumulative History, Corona, 1945. 
322. Annual Sanitary Report, Cumulative History, Sampson, 1945; Annual 
Sanitary Report, Cumulative History, Corona, 1945. 
323. Chief BuMed to MOinC, HavHosp, NavConvalHosps, 20 Mar. 1945. five hospitals had been designated as specialty units for both of 
these treatments. The hospitals were St. Albans, Bethesda, Oakland, 
San Diego, and Great Lakes. The medical and surgical progress, as 
indicated by the annual sanitary reports and cumulative historical 
reports, was most gratifying. 
From an administrative point of view it involved the expan- 
sion of the respective surgery departments and full utilization of the 
rehabilitation program for the convalescing patients. 
Conclusion 
The specialization program in hospitals of the Medical De- 
partment proved adequate to the needs of the situation. In the care 
and treatment of psychotics, malignancy, and poliomylitis patients, 
the pattern was well established prior to the War. The use of facili- 
ties outside the Department proved to be of great worth in time of 
emergency. Blindness and hearing procedures were developed largely. 
Rehabiliation and social adjustment were synchronized with medical 
treatment for the care of the blind and deaf. Again the assistance 
of outside organizations was utilized, and specialists employed or 
commissioned to implement the Navy program. 
Probably the most signal success from the point of leadership 
in the field was the v/ork of the amputation centers. The work of these 
centers was largely that of rehabilitation, building on the excellent 
surgical products of naval hospitalization. Here the enthusiastic co- 
operation of civilians, reserve officers, and patients created not only a program of rehabilitation which excited most favorable comment, but 
produced prosthescs which were advanced in design and conception of 
use. 
t 
The specialized unit treatment of rheumatic fever, tubercu- 
losis, neurosurgery and plastic surgery was merely recogniation of the 
growth in size of well established clinical routines. The bringing 
together of patients and staff in a limited number of units resulted 
in a selection of the best fitted medical personnel. Climatic condi- 
tions were also taken into consideration. 
Section 8 Rehabiliation 
Rehabilitation as defined by the naval Medical Department 
has comprised all activities and services which might be required to 
supplement the ordinary or usual therapeutic procedures in order to 
achieve maximum adjustment of the individual patient, either for fur- 
ther military service or for return to civil life, with the least pos- 
324 
sible handicap from his disability. 
The organization of this program has boon graphically illus- 
trated in the chart in Appendix I. The commanding officer’s emphasis 
has been of great importance, for he has set the tempo for the work in 
hisj hospital. The rehabilitation officer has been the commanding of- 
ficer ’s advisor and, as such, responsible to him for the system’s or- 
derly development and smooth functioning. For purposes of coordination, 
324. .Capt. Howard H. Montgomery, (MC), USN, ’’Rehabilitation" in Hospital 
Corps Quarterly, vol. IB, No. 3, Mar. 1945. Hereafter cited as 
"Rehabiliation.” the Rchabiliation Board has been established with the rehabilitation 
officer as chairman and with representatives of the various services 
as members. Under its supervision have been two general services— 
Rchabiliation and Contributory Activities. The Rchabiliation Service 
has included physical therapy, physical training, occupational therapy, 
ucational services, and civil readjustment. The Contributory Activities 
Service encompassed welfare and recreation, the chaplain, Red Cross, 
maintenance and local supporting efforts. 
The rchabiliation program as it existed 15 August 1945 was 
a war time formal organization developed to meet the needs of the medi- 
cal department. However, the ends it pointed towards have always been 
the aims of the department; a difference of intensity rather than in- 
tent has been the only real change. Before the Far the number of 
patients in any one hospital had been relatively small; most admis- 
sions had been for acute conditions of short duration, and therefore 
the convalescent period had been at a minimum. Only a small number of 
men requiring adjustment for return to civil life, had been discharged 
from the services. For those few who had had longer convalescences 
the ordinary facilities of the hospital had supplied ample employment. 
When the weather had been suitable, ’’outside detail” which had been 
assigned to patients served adequately to prepare them for return to 
full duty status. 
The advent of war magnified the problem beyond solution by 
already existing measures. The number of patients in hospitals had increased in direct proportion to the increase in the size of Navy 
Casualties from combat operations were brought back to continental 
hospitals. As a result, the size and number of hospitals multiplied, 
while the pressing problem became twofold—to return to duty as ex- 
peditiously as possible any man so able and to take care that any man 
discharged for medical reasons had been prepared for a proper readjust- 
325 
ment to civilian life. 
Many hospitals inaugurated activities which later were read- 
ily incorporated into the formal rehabilitation program. The Red Cross 
and other community groups provided means for projects later designated 
as occupational therapy. The chaplain and welfare and recreation ser- 
vices did much to furnish entertainment and diversion. By 1943 indi- 
vidual hospitals had.inaugurated rather extensive activities. Red 
Cross activities at Seattle foreshadowed the type of program later 
developed by an elaborate system of counseling and preparing the pa- 
tient for civilian life; a similar project was in operation at Phila- 
delphia. At St. Albans, a demonstration scheme approved by the Navy 
Department and planned with Arira Corporation (manufacturers of electri- 
cal equipment under Navy contracts) was initiated in November 1943* 
A number of sub-assembly operations of the plant brought into the hos- 
pital afforded the patients constructive occupational therapy work 
which was an excellent morale builder, because it contributed directly 
to the war effort. 
325. "Rehabilitation.n The development of the U. S. Naval Convalescent Hospital 
during 1942-43 was the initial effort to meet the war-emphasized need 
for special attention. Here an attempt was made to segregate conval- 
escents into special institutions where special work in physical 
therapy and the previously mentioned contributory activities could 
be handled. This program has been more extensively dealt with in 
Chapter IX on Special Hospitals* 
By late fall of 1943 it was clear that the services already 
under way needed to be coordinated in a uniform plan for all hospitals 
and increased in scope and extent. Consequently the Surgeon General 
assigned three medical officers the task of studying the matter and 
making recommendations. These officers reviewed reports of what had 
been done in this country and abroad and. submitted a report which has 
been the basis for subsequent developments. 
On 12 April 1944* a BuMed letter was sent to all medical of- 
ficers in command of naval hospitals announcing the establishment of 
an Office of Rehabilitation in the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery as 
a coordinating agency for educational procedures, occupational therapy 
in its broad meaning, physical fitness, welfare and recreation, coun- 
seling, prevocational training, and assistance for those who would be 
invalided from the service. 
A rehabilitation program was set up in each hospital as soon 
as possible. The program was gauged by the patient population of each 
326. "Rehabilitation." 
327. Chief BuMed to MedOfCom, NavHosps, NavConvalHosps, Comdts. N.D., and 
Inspector MedDept Activities, P4-4/P3-2, 12 Apr. 1944* 
120 hospital and developed in each hospital along lines recommended by 
the ward medical officers. By these officers, patients were classi- 
fied into groups based on their physical ability to participate in 
the activities of the program. The prescribed groups were 
Group 5 — no activity. 
Group 4 — confined to bed. 
Group 3 -- confined to ward. 
Group 2 — ambulant, but with stated restrictions 
on physical activity. 
Group 1 — ambulant - no limitations on physical 
activity. 
Physical Therapy 
Physical therapy has comprised the use of physical forces, 
passive or active, on the body. The passive type has consisted of 
treatments which did not require any effort from the patient and in- 
cluded external heat, ultroviolet radiations, diathermy, low voltage 
electric currents, hydrotherapy, and massage. The active type has 
included various kinds of exercises in which cooperation and partici- 
pation by the patient were necessary. Specific treatments for specific 
cases have been prescribed by a special medical officer or by the ward 
medical officer. Although all treatment has been under the supervision 
of a medical officer or a qualified physical therapist (an officer of 
the Hospital Corps, the Nurse Corps, or an officer designated as a 
specialist in the field), the actual administration has been carried 
on by "qualified assistants.” 
The basic principle of physical therapy has been to promoting 
the greatest possible return to normal function. When this has been impossible, substitute or auxiliary movements have been taught. The 
U. S. Naval Hospital, Norfolk, reported that the department there was 
concerned primarily with the restoration of local function in the 
preparation of the patient for his participation in the general re- 
habilitation program. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Newport, stated its department 
was operating at near capacity with an average of 3,500 treatments 
per month. Patients have been referred back to the prescribing medi- 
cal officer regularly so that he could check whether the desired re- 
sults were being obtained or whether a change of treatment should be 
made to speed recovery.329 Physical therapy has achieved its pur- 
pose when local function has been aided or restored. It has been a 
valuable supplement to the medical officer’s work. 
Physical Training 
Physical training was instituted in naval hospitals in 
order to send men back to the service physically fit for arduous duty. 
The program has been under the charge of the athletic officer, who 
has been assisted by personnel trained at the Naval Training Center, 
Sampson, N. Y. Their indoctrination has included an intensive review 
course in physical education, study of the organization and operation 
of a naval hospital, and emphasis on the fact that no type of exercise 
procedure not approved by the medical officer was to be undertaken. 
328. Rehabilitation at the U.S. Naval Hospital, Philadelphia, has been 
thoroughly covered in the Supplement to the U. S. Naval Medical 
Bulletin, March 1946. It is of general interest. 
329. "Reports from Naval Hospitals." Physical training has been designed to promote general good 
health and ameliorate disabilities. Intensity of the exercise has 
varied with the patient fs group classification, but it was begun with 
bed patients. U. S. Naval Hospital, Sampson, N. Y.,. developed a Gym- 
o-Bile, a cart with trays fro carrying exercising equipment to bed 
patients. A sample tray contained a spring chest expander, sandbags, 
tennis and handballs, assistive ropes, spring hand grips, marbles, 
dynamometer, and bed book arm and leg exerciser. The selection was 
varied with the type of ward scheduled for exercises. 
Reclassification or regrouping of patients as well as in- 
creasing intensity of exercises has been a necessary part of the pro- 
gram. It has been expedient to use existing facilities, to take ad- 
vantage of climatic conditions, to provide regular periods in the 
patient*s daily schedule for physical training, and to allot a defin- 
ite amount of ward time for its use. Special remedial and corrective 
exercises prescribed by the physician have been added to the regular 
schedule for both groups and individuals. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Memphis, worked out a plan whereby 
the athletic specialist accompanied the ward medical officer on sick 
call. There particular attention was directed to group organization 
within wards in order to combat mental and physical inertia and even 
deterioration. Particularly significant has been the achievement 
with nouropsychiatric patients who were found to prefer team games. 
The program has aided in restoring their confidence in their physical 
330. Ibid. skill, giving an outlet to their hostility, and overcoming shortness 
331 
of breath, lack of muscle tone, and chronic fatigue. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Newport, voiced the fact that 
neuropsychiatric patients were unwilling to participate when the pro- 
gram began. This was combatted by the obvious enjoyment of some of 
the group. One of the athletic specialists developed an exerciser 
made of strips of rubber from inner tubes fitted with wooden handles. 
The result was a spring exerciser without springs which could be used 
332 
by attachment to the bed or by both hands. 
In a survey of five naval hospitals, it was discovered that 
when specialists dressed up the exercises beyond the mere routine 
calisthenics stage, enthusiastic enjoyment was evident. The patients, 
themselves, testified that after a few days of such a regime they felt 
333 
better, ate better, and found that time passed more quickly. 
Occupational Therapy 
Although occupational therapy had been a part of naval hos- 
pitals during World War I, it had been discarded after demobilization. 
Therefore, a fresh start had to be ma.de when it was decided to add it 
to the hospital program during World War II. Hospitals had to be re- 
built and remodeled; trained workers had to be found. Trained occupa- 
tional therapists commissioned in the Women's Reserve formed the nucleus 
331. "Reports from Naval Hospitals", 
332. Ibid. 
333. W. Kennoth Patton, Ens., (HC), USN, and Victor Ullman, PhM3/c, 
USNR, "First-hand View of Rehabilitation" in Hospital (lorps. 
Quarterly, vol. 18, No. 3, March 1945. Hereafter cited as "First- 
ha of Rehabilitation". The hospitals visited were Sampson, 
Chelsea, Brooklyn, St..Albans, and Philadelphia. of the group which was expanded by the addition of "qualified assis- 
tants, occupational therapy". These were Hospital Corps personnel 
qualified by training to conduct the activities of the program under 
supervision. The real emphasis in this field has been its employment 
for functional restoration and practical skill as differentiated from 
diversional use of time and projects of artistic significance. Its 
value has been judged from the benefit to the patient rather than 
33/ 
from an artistic finished product." 
Occupational therapy has been useful in specific conditions 
in orthopedics, surgery, neuropsychiatrics, and psychomatics. It has 
aided return of function, has relieved tension, afforded an outlet 
for energy, and has increased self-confidence. Like other components 
of the rehabilitation program, this has been under the direction of 
a medical officer. Additional cooperation with the educational services 
officer to direct vocational efforts and with the Red Cross arts and 
skills program has proved wise. 
A survey of naval hospitals discovered that occupational 
therapy has been so popular that it has been difficult to control avail- 
able facilities so that the greatest number could benefit from them. 
Equipment was assembled to carry the program to the bed patient and 
the ambulatory ward patients. 
The occupational therapy department of U. S. Naval Hospital, 
Chelsea, has offered leather work, carpentering, painting, plastics, 
and repair of electrical equipment. By cooperation with the Navy Yard, 
the patients have worked on cleaning and rebuilding motors for the 
334. "First-hand View of Rehabilitation." salvage department. The officer in charge of the department has ob- 
tained equipment for foot and leg exercises by getting six old style 
sewing machines with foot pedals and attaching saws to then.-^-* 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, St. Albans, has had one of the best 
departments, housed in a bright, cheerful wing and divided into three 
partsv. Aiaftba work has been taken to the wards in individual boxes, 
while long tables have been set up so that an entire group could operate 
a chain belt system of producing small electrical parts. The other 
services offered have been carpentering and arts ahd crafts.-^ 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Newport, has viewed occupational 
therapy as a treatment assisting with or hastening the patient*s re- 
covery either for further military service or for return to civilian 
life with the least possible handicap from his disability. If the 
patient has been clever at some manual skill or has had a desire to 
tyr some manual skill, that interest has been utilized wherever pos- 
sible. Hov/ever, the reason v/hy the patient has been sent for occupa- 
tional therapy has remained the major concern. The work chosen has 
337 
had to exercise the disabled limb or portion of the body. 
The U, S. Naval Hospital, Norfolk, has included in this de- 
partment bookbinding, metal crafts, pottery, weaving, woodworking, 
gardening, dramatics, music, sports, shorthand, typing, and radio. 
335. "Reports from Naval Hospitals"* 
336. Ibid* 
337. Ibid* The v/ork has been designed to increase muscle strength and joint motion, 
improve general bodily health, and to supply nearly normal activity 
338 
through avocational projects and prevocational training. 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, has regarded occupa- 
tional therapy as of major psychological value. The idea of compul- 
sion has faded as the patient has become interested. Finally, the 
339 
problem v/as to restrain the patient from overworking. The true 
value of occupational therapy has lain in the enforced exercised given 
a specific part of the body. Yet its use in terms of both diversion 
and vocational training could never be ignored. 
Educational Services 
Educational Services has become an established part of hos- 
pital life and an essential feature of the rehabilitation program dur- 
ing 1944# The v/ork has been directed to educational and vocational 
counseling and education and training. It has made available to the 
patient the wide range of courses sponsored by the U. S. Armed Forces 
Institute, correspondence courses, and rate training manuals. Educa- 
tional Services has offered war orientation courses, has used training 
aids and devices to stimulate interest in naval duties, and has made 
arrangements for patients to attend nearby schools with suitable courses. 
Another important phase has been helping patients who were to be dis- 
charged obtain practical experience in lines of v/ork they aimed 'to 
follow in civilian life. 
338. Ibid. 
339. Ibid. The U. S. Naval Hospital, Chelsea, has endeavored to give 
every patient individual attention not only in counseling but also 
in tutoring. As a result, staff assistants have been recruited from 
the patient ranks. Several high school diplomas and even a degree in 
pharmacy have been secured by means of organized study programs. Re- 
sources of the colleges and counseling services in the area have been 
340 
utilized to implement the service. 
The USNH, Great lakes, has provided educational opportunities 
in various ways to meet the patient need. Self teaching materials 
have been na.de available for the bed patient; small classes have been 
organized in the wards; movies have been shown in the wards; regular 
classroom schedules have been maintained for ambulatory patients. 
3/1 
Classes have varied in size from 3 to 15 students. 
The USNH, Mare Island, has viewed rehabilitation as a real 
challenge and made as its goal sending the patient out better equipped 
than before. Therefore, vocational counseling under the Educational 
Services officer has been made the core of the second phase of reha- 
bilitation there. The first step has been to find a vocational inter- 
est or possibility; the second has been to select the way to reach 
that goal, A local junior college, the high school, and the Navy ap- 
prentice school have cooperated in achieving these aims. H The work 
of educational services in restoring confidence, building morale, and 
pointing out new fields has been a tremendous‘factor in the. rehabili- 
tation process. 
340. ’’Reports from Navel Hospitals.” 
341. Ibid. 
342. Ibid. Civil Readjustment 
This plia.se of the program has boen applied to the man who 
has been scheduled for survey and release to civilian life* Civil 
readjustments responsibility has been to insure for each dischargee 
an exit interview which will be thorough enough to send him out with 
the knowledge necessary to complete his service record as well as 
with a sense of personal satisfaction about readjustment. The Medi- 
cal Department has assumed the responsibility of seeing that all pat- 
ients discharged from the service from naval hospitals receive the 
full benefit of the program. Hospital Corps officers have bean spec- 
ially trained to assist in this work. It has been estimated that a 
full hour of the civil readjustment officer’s time must be allowed 
for each dischargee. He has had to maintain close cooperation with 
the Veterans’ Administration representative, the Selective Service 
and Civil Service representatives, and representatives from various 
veterans’ organizations. Experience has shown a practical method 
stemming from a group lecture or lectures, the presenting of the pam- 
phlet, Your Rights and. Benefits, and culminating in the personal in- 
terview to answer individual questions. 
Civil readjustment has met its responsibilities when the dis- 
chargee has left with a feeling of satisfaction in connection with his 
naval service and confidence in his future civilian life. These, then, 
have been the actual rehabilitation services as planned for all naval 
hospitals. They have been complemented by other activities in the hospital framev/ork, whose duties or services have added to the broad 
aims of the program. 
Contributory Activities 
Welfare and recreation has had as distinct a place in the 
naval as in the civilian hospital. The will to recover, albeit some- 
what intangible, has been important to the patient’s progress. Hos- 
pital hours even with physical and occupational therapy, physical train- 
ing, and educational services have loomed abnormally long. Then, too, 
in the case of these patients, the convalescent period, which in civil- 
ian life has been spent at home, has had to be spent in the naval hos- 
pital. 
The major recreation problem has been to fit the programs 
to the needs and tastes of the men. The most helpful point has been 
securing patient participation both in planning and in doing. 
The Red Cross has been a valuable prop to the morale of pat- 
ients who have had personal or family problems. This program, handled 
by trained personnel, has been available to men who have asked for it. 
The Red Cross also has assisted in recreation, has worked close to 
occupational therapy with arts and skills, and has aided dischargees 
343 
in preparation of claims for pensions and other benefits. 
The chaplain has made a definite contribution to rehabili- 
tation in relieving spiritual unrest, which.has often impeded recovery. 
343. The status of personnel of the American Red Cross in naval acti- 
vities is stated in U. S. Navy Regulations. Articles 1470-1478. 
An excellent exposition of their services has been presented in 
MEhe Red Cross Rehabilitation,” in Supplement to United States 
ifeyal Hodical Bulletin, larch 1948.” 
130 Some patients have wished talks with clergyment of their own faith; 
others have had help with their personal problems, and still others 
have appreciated contact with chaplains who have been overseas and so 
have an idea of combat areas. The chaplain has also generally spoken 
to groups about to be discharged on the matter of adjustment from reg- 
ulated military life to unregulated civilian life. 
The maintenance department has had a variety of tasks nec- 
essary for the upkeep of the hospital which have also offered thera- 
peutic value. Outside detail has been appropriate for patients whose 
period of hospitalization would be brief. The entire program here has 
had to be planned with an analysis of physical requirements for a given 
task and its integration with the patientrs classification. 
These activities and programs, although not the main stream 
of the rehabilitation program, have made a real contribution to it. 
Apart from definite medical procedures, they have highly influenced 
morale and have administered to personal needs and problems. 
It has been virtually impossible to overemphasize the im- 
portance of the Rehabilitation Program to the naval service and to the 
nation. The Surgeon General of the United States Navy offered the fol- 
lowing statement of the problem: 
M every member of the Medical Department 
has as his primary objective the physical well being 
of the men of the Fleet. 
There is another obligation that is just as im- 
portant and that is saving lives of the men who fight 
the guns of the Fleet and those who fight on the beaches 
■131 of the far-flung islands of the world, the U. S. 
Marines. Our life saving record in this war is 
one that the whole nation can well be thankful for 
and proud of, but what of the men who are disabled 
from the blows they have received in this frightful 
war. What of their future in years to cone? 
The Medical Department of the Navy, then, has 
a third task which is even more important than the 
other two, for upon its ability to solve the variety 
of problems of rehabilitation depends the future of 
hundreds of thousands of the youth of our nation. 
So wc have set our eyes on the path ahead. The path 
that will lead the injured back to a state of health 
whereby they will be useful citizens again in their 
communities....”344 
344. Vice Adn. Ross T Mclntire, Profr.ce to The Rehabilitation Porgran 
of the Medical Department of the United States Navy. 
132- SUPERVISION AND CONTROL OF CONTINENTAL MEDICAL ACTIVITIES 
j NAVY HOSPITALS 
BIBLIOGRAPHY 
Published Sources: 
U. S. Navy Regulations 
Articles: 
1470 457 142 
1478 1191 1195 
1482 - Sections 1154 170 
2,11,17, 4c 1540 458 
2038 1153 
Manual of the Medical Department 
Paragraphs: 
1101 1663 2154 
1102 a-1 1102 d&h 2155 
34xt 2172 
1603 2176 
1605 B 2177 
Supplement to U. S. Naval Medical Bulletin, March 1946. 
Hospital Corps Quarterly, vol. 18, No. 3, March 1945. 
The Rehabilitation Program of the Medical Department United 
States Navy. 
Manual of Educational and Vocational Conseling for Use in the 
Rehabilitation Program of the Medicai Department. U. S, Navy. 
A Short History of Nautical Medicine, Louis H. Roddis, Capt., (MC), 
U. S. N. 
Our Navy at War, Official Report Concerning Combat Operations 
up to 1 March 1944. Adm. E. J. King, U. S. K. 
Annual Report. Chief Bulged, Fiscal Xear 1939 
Budget Circulars: 
No. 146, 24 October 1924. 
No. 281, 26 June 1930. 
No. 282, 28 July 1930. 
No. 419, 7 May 1943. 
U. S. Naval Medical Bulletin, vol. 38, No. 2, April 1940 
Capt. L. W. Johnson, (MC), USN, "They Told Me About 
Their Hospitals." 
Public Laws 
No. 528 - 77th Congress, 28 April 1942. 
No. 51-7Sth Congress, 10 May 1943. 
Alnav 47, 44-271, 6 March 1944. 
1 Unpublished Sources; 
Letters 
SecNav letter 10 August 1943. 
SecNav letter 31 July 1945. 
SecNav letter 10 March 1941. 
SecNav Conference letter Op 13-ID psp,-Serial 0102513,(SC), 
A42/NH, 8 February 1945. 
SecNav letter, 45-272, 20 March 1945. 
SecNav to Hon. W. Lee O'Daniel, 11 January 1945. 
BuMed, R. T Mclntire to BuPers, 14 June 1943. 
Vice Adm. R. T Mclntire to BuPers, 18 June 1943* 
Vice Adm. R. T Mclntire to Capt. T. C. Anderson, 
Staff CominchPac, 25 April 1944. 
Chief of Bureau of Medicine and Surgery to SecNav, 
7 February 1942. 
R. T Mclntire to Leonard Outhwaite, Director, Federal 
Board of Hospitalization, May 1945. 
Chief, BuMed, to Chief, BuPers, 19 May 1944. 
Ross T Mclntire to Leonard Outhwaite, May 1945. 
Ross T Mclntire to Cominch, CN0, 26 April 1944. 
Chief, Bulled, to MedOfinCom, Brooklyn, 26 March 1942. 
Chief, Bulled, to 1,10 in Ch, Corona, 28 February 1943. 
Chief, BuMed, to 110 inCom, Corona, 1 April 1943. 
Chief, Bulled, to DM0, 11th, 12th, & 13th Naval Districts, 
8 July 1943. 
Chief, Bulled, to MedOfinCom, Washington, D. C. 
Surgeon General to Mr. Basil O'Conner, Chairman, Executive 
Committee, Warm Springs Foundation, 15 December 1943. 
Surgeon General to Dr. C. E. Irwin, 3 March 1945. 
Ross T Mclntire to Mr. Basil O’Conner, 26 March 1945. 
Chief, Bullied, to MoinCom, Philadelphia, 29 June 1944. 
Ross T Mclntire to Robert E. Bondy, American Red Cross, 
21 June 1945. 
Chief, BuMed, to Hon. Harry L. Towe, 6 November 1945. 
R. Adm. L. Sheldon, Jr., (MC), USN, Acting Chief of Bureau 
to Capt. J. W. Miller, (MC), USN, MOinC, Philadelphia, 
14 April 1944, 
Surgeon General to Administrator of Veterans' Affairs, 23 
October 1944. 
Surgeon General to Administrator of Veterans’ Affairs, 
22 June 1944. 
Chief, BuMed, to MedOfCom, NavHosp, NavConval Hosp, SM0, 
Shore Stations. 
Chief, BuMed, to MedOfCom, Philadelphia, 18 August 1944. 
Chief, BuMed, to MedOfCom, Philadelphia, 29 January 1945. 
Chief, BuMed, to Chief, BuPers, 8 July 1943* Surgeon General to Dr. Thomas D. Dublin, Long Island 
College of Medicine, 18 December 1942. 
Surgeon General to Hon. Harold C. Hagen, 23 February 1944. 
Chief, Bulled, to Chief, BuPcrs, 4 April 1944. 
Surgeon General to Hon. Robert Yfagner, 2 November 1945. 
Chief, BuMed, to NavHosp, NavConvalHosp, 29 July 1943. 
M & 3 Letter 12 May 1943. 
R. Adm. L, Sheldon, Acting Chief of Bureau to Comdt. 
Marine Corps via BuPcrs, 14 September 1944. 
Bulled to MedOfCom, NavHosps, NavConvalHosp, (Continental 
Limits) by R. T Mclntire, Conferences 12 October 1944. 
BuMed to All District Medical Officers, 11 December 1944. 
BuMed letter, 4 April 1944. 
BuMed letter 44-365, P4-3/NH (082), 29 March 1944. 
Joint letter - BuMed, MarCorps, BuPcrs, to All Ships and 
Stations, 21 February 1945. 
MedOfCom, Hospital Train, to Chief, Bureau Supplies and 
Accounts, 30 May 1945. 
Rear Adm. G. C, Thomas, (MC), USN, (Ret.), to Vice Adm. 
R. T Mclntire, 13 March 1944. 
Capt. G. E. Robertson, (MC), USN., to Rear Adm. D. G. Sutton, 
(MC), USN, 8 December 1943. 
Dr. Albert D. Suiland, Los Angeles Tumor Institute, to 
Surgeon General, 10 July 1941. 
DistMedOf 13th NavDist to Capt. Luther Sheldon, Jr., (MC), 
USN, 3 October 1941. 
MedOfCom, Corona, to Chief, Bulled, 19 March 1943. 
MOinCom, Brooklyn, to BuMed, 26 Nevembcr, 1943. 
Capt. J. P. Owens, (MC), USN, to Capt. C. L. Andrus, (MC), 
USN, 22 December 1944. 
Dr. C. E. Irwin, Chief Surgeon, Y.'arm Springs Foundation, 
to Bulled, 14 December 1943. 
Dr. C. E. Irwin, Chief Surgeon, Y/arm Springs Foundation, 
to Vice Adm. Ross T Mclntire, (MC), USN, 19 February 1945. 
Dr. C. E. Irwin to Surgeon General, 7 March 1945. 
Capt. L. Sheldon, Jr., (MC), USN, to Capt. H. L. Jensen, 
(MC), USN, 15 December 1942. 
MedOfCom, Corona, to Chief, BuMed, 12 January 1944. 
MOinCom, Mare Island to Chief, BuMed, 17 August 1944. 
MOinCom, Philadelphia, to Chief, Bulled, 18 June 1945. 
John S. Bugas, Gen. Mgr., Ford Motor Corps., to 
V. Adm. Ross T Mclntire, 23 August 1945. 
S. E. Skinner, Gen. Mgr., Oldsmobilc Corp., to V. Adm. Ross 
T Mclntire, 17 September 1945. 
To Lt (j.g.) B. E. Hoffmeycr, D(S), USNR, USS BOYD (DD544)-> 
from Capt. H. H. Montgomery, (MC), USN. 
3 MedOfCom, Philadelphia, to Chief, BuMed, 5 August 1941. 
MoinC, U. S. NavHosp, Farragut, to Chief, BuMed, 18 June 
1943. 
MedOfCom, NavHosp, Jacksonville, to BuMed, 20 April 1944. 
Joint letter to Chief, BuMed, Chief, Yards and Docks, 
from Comdt. 11th NavDist., consideration of Norconia 
Hostel as convalescent center, Luther Sheldon, 
21 November 1941. 
President F. D, Roosevelt to Harold Smith, Director of the 
Budget, 10 May 1943. 
C.N.0. to BuMed, 19 March 1944. 
BuPors Circular letter?196-43. 
BuPers letter?Pers•630-RFT(l), 26 April 1943. 
BuPers Circular letter* 367?to All Ships and Stations, 
12 October 1941. 
Chief, BuPers, to Com 1-9 NavDist-PRNC and SRNC, 4 May 
1944. 
Comdt. 12 NavDist, MedOfCom, NavHosp, 12th Dist., 13 January 
1944. 
Memoranda: 
All Bureau Officers, R. T Mclntire, 7 February 1944. 
Chief, Administration Division, from F. R. Laig, Chief, Medical 
Statistics Division, 22 January 1946. 
Chief, Planning Division, to Chief, Administration Division, 
22 January 1946. 
R. T Mclntire from W. S. Douglass, 26 August 1942. 
R. Adm. Daniel Hunt, Comdt 12 NavDist, to N. B. Adams, 13 October 
1944. 
W. J. C. Agnew from G. 'C. Thomas, 14 May 1945. 
Capt. Owen, (MC), USN, from W. S. Douglas, Chief Clerk 30 October 
1941. 
Capt. John Harper, (HC), USN, from C. L. Andrus, 22 October 1943. 
Commo. C„ L. Andrus, (MC), USN, to Professional Division, 28 
April 1945. 
Comdr. Carter from Lt. Cdr. A. F. Coburn, 30 December 1943. 
Judge Advocate General to Vice Adm. Ross T Mclntire, 10 December 
1941. 
General Files - Naval Hospitals: 
Numbers 
1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10- 11-- 13..- H 
15 - 28 - 30 - 32 - 49 - 56 - 61 - 78 - 80 - 170 - 59 - 
70 - 48 - 46 
Annual Sanitary Reports - Naval Hospitals: 
Annapolis 1942 - 1943. Astoria 1944. 
Bainbridge 1943 - 1944* 
Bremerton 1942 - 1944. 
Brooklyn - 1943 - 1944. 
Camp LeJeune - 1944. 
Charleston - 1942 - 1944. 
Chelsea - 1942 - 1943 - 1944- 
Corona - 1944 - 1945. 
Great Lakes - 1942 - 1944. 
Pensacola - 1942 - 1943 - 1944. 
Norman - 1943 - 1944. 
Seattle - 1942 - 1943 - 1944. 
San Leondra - 1944. 
Key West - 1943. 
San Diego - 1943 - 1944. 
Newport - 1942 - 1943 - 1944. 
Long Beach - 1943 - 1944. 
Farr a gut - 1943 ■* 1944. 
Corpus Christi 1943. 
- 1943. 
Memphis - 1943 - 1944. 
Norfolk - 1943. 
Oakland - 1942 - 1943 - 1944. 
San Francisco - 1943. 
Parris Island - 1942 - 1943 - 1944. 
Marc Island - 1942 - 1943 - 1944. 
Philadelphia - 1942 - 1943 - 1944. 
Jacksonville - 1942 - 1943 - 1944. 
New Orleans - 1944. 
Portsmouth (Va.) - 1943 - 1944. 
San Francisco (Receiving ) - 1944. 
Santa Margarita - 1943 - 1944. 
St. Albans - 1943 - 1944. 
Annual Sanitary Reports - Historical Supplements - Naval Hospitals: 
Corona - 1944. 
Jacksonville - 1944. 
Pensacola - 1944. 
Long Beach - 1943 - 1945. 
Mare Island - 1944. 
Memphis - 1944. 
Parris Island - 1943. 
Portsmouth (N.H.) - 1943. 
Annual Sanitary Reports - Cumulative Histories 1945 - Naval Hospitals: 
Memphis i 
Newport 
Key West Bethcsda 
Norfolk (NOB) 
Shoemaker 
Long Beach 
Annapolis 
Bremerton 
Brooklyn 
Corona 
Dublin 
Jacksonville 
New Orleans 
Norman 
Parris Island 
Philadelphia 
Quantico 
San Diego 
San Leandro 
Santa Margarita 
Resolutions - Federal Board of Hospitalization: 
No. 150 - 26 February 1945 
No. 161 - 24 April 1945 
No. 30 - 11 June 1943 
No. 62-24 September 1943 
No. 26 - 25 June 1943 
No. 73-8 October 1943 
No. 25 - 21 May 1943 
No. 162 - 22 May 1945 
No. 14 - 17 May 1943 
Miscellaneous 
Report on Medical Examinations in Recruiting, Cdr. E. E. Duckery, 
(MC), to R. T Mclntire, 26 January 1942, 
Navy Department Conference of District Medical Officers, 11-12 
October 1943, notes of. 
Annual Sanitary Report, U. S. K. Unit, USPH, Hospital, Fort Worth, 
Texas, 1944. 
Telegram, NavHoso, Mare Island, to BuMcd, 25 September 1943. 
Inspector NavMcd Dept. Activities, Pacific Coast, ComOfNavHosp, 
11 - 12 - 13 NavDist, P4-3/NH15, 13 August 1943. 
Commander WesSeaFrontior's Direction, N9-WSF-CL, Serial 3591, 
26 April 1945. 
6 CHAPTER IX 
SPECIAL HOSPITALS 
The institutions which were designated U. S. Navy Special 
Hospitals at the time of the close of the war are a new departure 
in naval hospitalization. These hospitals were originally designated 
U. S. Naval Convalescent Hospitals, but by June 1945 their range 
of functions had beccme so wide that it was deemed advisable to 
1 
change the title to U. S. Naval Special Hospital. They were first 
considered in pre-war planning just before Pearl Harbor. The plan 
as conceived at that time, and later placed in effect, was to take 
over civilian institutions such as hotels, sanitariums, and schools 
for emergency hospitalization. The Norconian Hotel was under con- 
sideration as a convalescent center in November. The correspondence, 
after the hotel was taken for hospital purposes, frequently refers 
to this installation as U. S. Naval Convalescent Hospital No. 1. 
However, this title never became official, and it developed as a 
general hospital with special emphasis on the treatment of conval- 
2 
escent patients* 
During 1942 and the early part of 1943, the general hos- 
pitals were in a fairly good position to care for patients, as the 
building program was able to keep the stated bed capacity above the 
3 
patient load* 
1* SecNav Serial 313313 to All Ships and Stations, 29 June 1945, 
2, Joint Letter, Chief of BuMed, Chief of Bureau of Yards and Docks, to 
C©m, 11th Naval District, 21 Nov. 1941; General Files* Correspon- 
dence, N. H., 47. 
3, See Appendix ‘F: . 
1 With the need for augmented facilities in the spring of 
1943 the establishment of convalescent hospitals was initiated. By 
the end of July 1943, there were six units established. These units 
had a stated bed capacity of 3,548 on 1 July. The patient load at. 
that time in these hospitals stood at 1,195. 
In general, the patients sent to these hospitals were 
those who required little treatment other than rest, salubrious 
climate and diet, psychotherapy, or physiotherapy before being re- 
turned to duty, or being discharged. 
Organization of Special Hospitals 
In organization, these hospitals had a basic similarity 
to the regular naval hospital. The respective activity of the 
various units was quite different^however. The hospitals were or- 
ganized into administrative and clinical divisions, and within the 
clinical division were the two general services of medical and 
surgical. The work of both medical and surgical services was largely 
confined -to examination of patients and supervision of progress of 
convalescence. Surgery usually included the services of X-ray, 
physiotherapy, and operutijwg room, while the medical service super- 
vised the laboratory, the taking of BMR (basal metabolic rate), and 
electrocardiography. 
As the chief function of the hospital was to facilitate 
convalescence, the training and morale-building activities normally 
under the administration branch were integrated more closely with 'tne two services of medicine'--and surgery than would be found in 
general hospitals. Under morale-building activities the rehabili- 
tation program, civil readjustment, welfare and recreation, library, 
Red Cross and chaplain's office were usually grouped. Under train- 
ing activities are the physical training and educational services, 
both of which work in close cooperation with the regular medical 
service. In a small facility like Harriman, the organization was 
relatively informal, while at a larger establishment such as Sun 
Valley, Asbury park, or Banning, the organization was, of necessity, 
4 
more formal and carefully subdivided. 
The special hospitals will be dea&t with differently from 
the general hospitals, which were analyzed topically as a group. 
The special hospitals, being quite different from each other, will 
each be discussed as a separate entity;. The physical character- 
istics which made the site suitable, the buildings and additions 
made by the Navy, the particular group of patients served, and the 
treatments afforded will be noted. 
The hospitals will be treated in the order of their com- 
missioning. 
SPECIAL HOSPITALS I! ORDER OF COMMISSIONING 
1. Harriman, N.Y. 16 November 1942 
2. Santa Cruz, Calif. 8 March 1943 
3. Asheville, N. C. 24 May 1943 
4. Yosemite, Calif. 25 June 1943 
5. Sun Valley, Idaho 1 July 1943 
6. Glenwood Springs, Colo. 5 July 1943 
4, See charts for Sun Valley, Arrowhead, and Asheville. 7. Arrowhead Springs, Calif. 23 May 1944 
8. Sea Gate, Brooklyn, N. Y. 30 August 1944 
9. Springfield, Mass. 8 September 1944 
10. Banning, Calif. 2 October 1944 
11. Beaumont, Calif. 2 October 1944 
12. Asbury Park, N. Y. 10 April 1945 
13. Palm Beach, Fla. 21 May 1945 
14. Camp White, Ore. 31 August 1945 
15 Camp Wallace, Tex. 5 September 1945 
U. S. Naval Special Hospital, Harriman, New York 
The Harriman Hospital was the first convalescent hospital and has 
remained the smallest in size (80-bed authorized capacity) and 
patient load. The hospital takes only male officers who are com- 
pletely ambulatory. No neuropsychiatric cases are taken, only gen- 
eral medical and surgical convalescent cases. Recuperation is 
thoMttgh rest and careful dietary supervision under very pleasant and 
informal surroundings. 
The installation is housed in the spacious home of Araral 
Harriman who offered the property to the Navy on 6 August 1942. The 
project was approved by the Secretary of the Navy on 5 September, 
and it was placed in commission on 16 November 1942. The building 
was not ready to receive patients until 10 February when the first 
patients transferred from the Brooklyn Hospital. 
The hospital is located 57 miles from New York on the 
summit of one of the several elevations of the Bear Mountain Range 
in the Catskills. A beautiful vista can be seen from the grounds 
which are 1,500 feet above sea level. The installation is quiet and 
remote from bustling civilization, as typified by the presence of a 
large herd of deer which heightened the rustic scenery. 
Historical Supplement to the Annual Sanitary Report, 1940. Rear Adm. C. M. Oman, (MC), USN^Ret.), was in command of 
the hospital during its three years of activation and fostered the 
development of an atmosphere of dignified and leisurely calm, quite 
6 
suitable for this type of institution. 
Santa Cruz, U. S. N. Special Hospital 
This hospital is located at Santa Cruz, California, by 
Monteray Bay, about 75 miles south of Oakland. The building was 
constructed in 1912 as the Casa Del Ray, a beach hotel. The prop- 
erties of this hospital are leased by the government, and altera- 
tions were made under the direction of the Twelfth Naval District 
Public Works Officer in February of 1943. 
The principal distinctive feature in the organization of 
this hospital is the contract with the Troyer Brothers, Hotel Mana- 
had operated the establishment prior to the government's 
taking the property for the operation of the establishment. The 
annual contract provides for the furnishing and preparing of all 
food and the upkeep of the building and premises. nThe operation 
of the Civilian Manager’s Contract has proven to be a most satis- 
7 
factory and economical method of operation.” 
The hospital was commissioned on 8 March 1943 and received 
both officer and enlisted patients for care. Its stated bed capacity 
was 660 when first commissioned and increased at the end of the War 
6. General Files, N. H. 70. 
7. Historical Supplement to Annual Sanitary Report of 1943. to 886. It ranked fifth among special hospitals in size. Care was 
given to general and surgical convalescents and to neuropsychiatric 
patients who had completed hospitalization and were awaiting dis- 
charge from the naval service. At the close of the War, only en- 
listed men were cared for at this establishment.8 In the eai£y 
months of operation, the patient turnover was as high as 60 per- 
cent each month, but with the continuance of the War the length of 
9 
convalsecence increased. At the close of hostilities the hospital 
had 891 pati.ents, the second largest patient load of the special 
hospitals. 
Asheville, North Carolina, U.S.N. Special Hospital 
In October and November of 1942 there was a survey made 
of hotels in the Fifth Naval district to select facilities for a 
naval convalescent hospital. The institution selected was Kennel- 
worth Park Hotel (Appalachian Hall) in Asheville, North Carolina. 
The court gave possession to the government on 26 January, but 
actual possession was not obtained until 15 February. On 21 
February 1943, the hotel Grove Park Inn was designated as an annex 
for reception of patients and housing of staff pending the com- 
pletion of alterations on the main structure. The first 52 patients 
arrived 23 February 1943 and by 6 March, 125 patients were aboard. 
This number decreased until the opening of the main unit when 
there were only 4 remaining. The installation was formally es- 
tablished on 26 March and commissioned 24 May. It began receiving 
in Ross T Mclntire to MedOfCom, NavHosp, NavC*Qva3il«»p, 20 Mar, 1945. 
9. Historical Supplement to the Annual Sanitary Report, 1943; Gen- 
eral Files, N. H., 70. 10 
a limited number of patients on the 28th. 
The site on which the hospital is situated consists of 
13 acres in the Kenilworth Park section of the city of Asheville, 
North Carolina. The property is well adapted for the special pur- 
pose for which it was used. The buildings are on a flat area of 
an elevated ridge between two valleys and afford a splendid view 
of the surrounding country and mountains. Since it is in a 
sparcely settled section, it is quiet and secluded, yet only two 
miles from the center of Asheville. The grounds are well land- 
scaped, the work being done by the Navy. The hotel had served as 
a sanitarium and health resort hotel prior to use by the Navy.^ 
''Prior to the commissioning of the hospital, the adminis- 
tration gave especial study to the evaluation of the special fun- 
ctioning of a convalescent hospital which in itself was comething 
new in naval hospital experience. A basic policy was adopted at 
that time builH aroundi (a) the special physical characteristics 
12 
of the property...., and (b) the idea of convalescence per se," 
The local situation provided for patients physical sur- 
roundings entirely different from the usual naval environment. 
This difference was capitalized. The hotel or club idea was made 
prominent. The patient entering this hospital receives the benefit 
of a complete change in his naval routine in much the same way that 
10. General "FT les, N. H., Historical Supplement to Annual Sanitary Re- 
port, 1943, Asheville. 
11. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943. 
12. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945, Cumulative History. a person in civil life isDbenefited by a vacation that takes him 
away from his usual business or routine. This change in the physi- 
cal environment has been paralleled by a policy of non-regimentation 
or coddling of patients in providing a program, without undue em- 
phasis on guidance, that encourages the patients to engage in useful 
or occupational work in which they show an interest or to take up 
sports and games, serious study, literary pursuits, reading, etc.. 
In this way, work and play are combined into a form of 
occupational therapy instrumental to rehabilitation without the 
13 
patient's being aware of it. 
The relations of this institution with ttjre people of 
Asheville were marked by many pleasant events. The local paper 
praised the hospital and its work as follows: "In such surround- 
ings, hundreds of convalescent seamen and officers of the Navy are 
finding their way back to health and further service to the nation. 
In a sense, medical treatment is only incidental to this restoration. 
Rest and recreation in a homelike atmosphere under wise, competent 
and understanding administration are therapies which understandably 
14 
have worked miracles." 
The main building i* of wood and stucco in the English 
country-house style of architecture. It is five stories in height 
in the form of a "T". 
1ST Ibid. 
14. Asheville Citizen, i£sue of 27 May, as quoted in Historical Sup- 
plement to Annual Sanitary Report of Asheville Convalescent 
Hospital, 1944. There was no special medical department, and one 
officer took care of all patients. The facilities were adequate 
for treatment of convalescent patients. The work of the surgical 
department consists principally of providing postoperative treat- 
ment and convalescent care for orthopedic cases. Dressings and 
casts are applied and removed and physiotherapy is prescribed and 
supervised. In cases of communicable diseases, or emergency opera- 
tive treatment, the patients were transferred to the nearby Moore 
15 
General Army Hospital. 
As the T,7ar progressed in 1945 a larger proportion of 
the patients were orthopedic cases requiring more individual treat- 
ment, and this type amounted to 60 percent of the patient load as 
compared with only 24 percent in 1943- Although the altitude is 
fairly high, the climate is too damp for care of respiratory or 
joint cases. Also, in winter there is much smoke in the air. 
The rehabilitation program^which was provided with ample 
physiotherapy and mecanotherapy equipment and excellent direction, 
was perhaps the core of the work of the facility. This was inte- 
grated with the active program of welfare and recreation and edu- 
16 
cational and physical training departments. 
At the close of the .Jar, this hospital accepted officers, 
enlisted men, and tiAv""S, being one of only two convalescent hos- 
15. Annual Sanitary Reports, 1943 and 1944* 
16. Annual Sanitary Report, 1945* Cumulative Report. piLals having facilities for care of 7-VTo. The installation ranked 
17 
tenth in size and patient load at the close of hostilities. 
The hospital was fortunate to have the same commanding 
officer during its entire period of service. This gave a continuity 
to its program. The commanding officer was Capt. ?. A. Angwin, who, 
as District Medical Officer of the 6th Naval District, had been in- 
strumental in choosing the site. 
Yosemite 
U. S. Naval Hospital, Yosemite National Park, California, 
was the only National Park facility deemed suitable for use by the 
Navy, although the locations at Yellowstone, Grand Canyon and 
18 
Glacier National Parks were inspected with this purpose in view. 
The prospect of using this property was considered in the spring of 
19 
1943* and the activity was commissioned 25 June 1943* 
The hospital reservation comprises 37 acres located in the 
upper part of Yosemite Valley. nScenically, the setting is magnifi- 
cent. To the west were the medows* pines, and oaks of the valley. 
Sheer granite cliffs tower some 4*000 feet above the valley floor on 
all sides. In front was Glacier Point with its famous fire fall. 
Above was the world-famed Half Dome. Belov; were the Yosemite Falls 
and passive El Ca pi tain. 
T/T BuMed to MedOfCom, NavHosp, NavCunvalHosp., 20 Mar. 1945. 
18. Report of inspection Trip by Rear Adm. L. Sheldon, Jr., (MC), U5N, 
15 Oct. 1943. . - 
19. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution No. 13/3 May 1943- 
20. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943; Annual Sanitary Report, 1945* 
Cumulative History. 
10 The Ahwahaee Hotel and grounds were leased from the Yosemite 
Park and Curry Company. The lease was not finally agreed upon during 
the Uar. The main building is a reinforced concrete and native 
granite building, six stories in height, and of exceptionally fire- 
♦ 
proof qualities. In general, the hotel was readily adaptable to 
conversion into a hospital, especially one of the convalescent 
type. Hotel bedroom and dining room furniture was reclaimed for 
21 
naval use, and the linen and chinaware were purchased. 
The hospital was first intended for use only by neuropsy- 
chiatric patients. The experience of its first summer of operation 
illustrated that it was unsuitable for this purpose. It is so shut 
in by high mountains that many patients suffered from claustrophobia. 
The patients were also unhappy because they were so isolated and 
there were so few diversions. After September the policy was changed 
22 
and no more neuropsychiatric patients were sent to Yosemite. 
During 19b3 and the early part of 19liUj little if any 
recreational equipment was available. Skating was readily available 
and late in the season tobogganing was afforded, but many patients 
were not in a condition to utilize these sports. Furthermore, the 
hospital was isolated and liberty passes were of little or no value. 
"As a natural result, the attitude of the patients was bad. They • 
resented being sent to the valley with its lack of recreational or 
21. Annual Sanitary Report, 1914-3; Annual Sanitary Report, 19h53 Cumu- 
lative History. 
22. Report of Inspection Trip by Read Adm. Luther Sheldon, Jr., (MC), 
USN, 15 Oct. 19U3; Annual Sanitary Report, 19U5. Cumulative History. other facilities after being in the combat areas of Alaska and the 
South Pacific for months. They resented having to wait months for 
medical discharges. They' felt that they had done their part in the 
War, had become casualties and were entitled to be sent home in- 
stead of being isolated in the High Sierras. The Hospital Welfare 
Fund was low and repeated efforts to obtain additional money from 
other naval activities for bowling alleys, pool tables, etc. were 
23 
unavailing." 
During this period, the people of the San Joaquin Valley 
did much to provide recreational activity and equipment. They 
brought hostesses and orchestras for dances and furnished equipment 
for a hobby shop—a forerunner of the rehabilitation program. The 
nearest town of any size was Merced, 81 miles away, and San Fran- 
cisco, 211 miles away, which made liberty impossible. 
Until 19Ub a large percentage of the patients sent to 
this hospital were awaiting leave. This was because of the length 
of time necessary for survey and receipt of medical discharge. The 
San Francisco Bay hospitals, in order to make urgently needed beds 
available, sent patients to Yoscmite who vrere "waiting for action 
in Washington". The lengthy delays naturally disturbed the patients 
and the lack of recreation was a detriment. Morale was low "and 
the good name of the hospital invariably suffered". At tills time 
emergency leave v/as possible; the men could not see their families, 
23. Annual Sanitary Report, 19b5} Cumulative History. and there were no accomodations for families or friends to visit 
them. 
During 19UU, the delay in surveys was lessened when com- 
manding officers were allowed to pass on cases. This greatly helped 
the morale of the patients. The program for rehabilitation was also 
placed in effect and provided equipment and activity for the patients. 
During 19k5, patients needing treatment were sent to this hospital 
and it became more truly a convalescent establishment instead of 
pq 
largely a waiting point for discharge or reassignment. 
At the end of the liar, the hospital accepted general 
medical and surgical convalescents and neuropsychiatric patients 
who had completed hospitalization and were awaiting discharge from 
the naval service. The hospital was sixth in size and fourth in 
actual patient load with 709 aboard. 
Sun Valley 
The Sun Valley Special Hospital was second in stated bed 
capacity among the special hospitals at the close of the liar, but 
was first in actual patient load. It accepted general medical and 
surgical convalescent patients who had received essential defini- 
tive treatment but whose necessary hospitalization was not completed. 
It was especially equipped to administer physiotherapy to orthopedic 
convalescents. Neuropsychiatric cases, except psychosis, epilepsy, 
2l|. Annual Sanitary Report, 19h5y Cumulative Hi story. 
25. Ibid. constitutional psychopaths and mental deficients were accepted. This 
hospital, with Asheville, was the only institution of its kind which 
accepted all members of the naval service, officers, enlisted men, 
and WAVES.26 
Negotiations for leasing of the property were initiated in 
the spring of 19U3* The Union Pacific Railroad Company owns Sun 
Valley resort and has an investment therein of more than 000,000, 
The area includes 3,529 acres of which about 80 arc in the im- 
mediate hospital area. The resort is in the south central part of 
Idaho in the heart of the Sawtooth Mountains. The hospital was 
commissioned on 1 July 19U3,but patients were not received until 
August. 
Sun Valley Lodge was used as the main hospital building. 
It is a reinforced concrete fireproof building of a double MYM 
shape. The concrete was poured in native sawed lumber form and 
treated so that it appears as wood. The building is four stories 
in height. The bod capacity when the building was taken over by 
the Navy was about 1,1*00, of which 1,035 were considered available 
for patients, that being its stated capacity. The other beds were 
used for the staff. The maximum complement of staff and patients 
was reached shortly before V-J Day when 1,603 naval personnel were 
aboard. 
The greatest problem at this hospital, as at YoSemite, 
26. Bulged to MedOfCom, NavHosp, NavConvalHosp., 20 Mar. 19 U5. was its isolation. Transportation was poor for liberty parties, and 
special trips of 85 miles to Twin Falls and ?85 miles to Boise were 
made by arrangement with local transportation. However, Sun Valley 
was fortunate in having a vrealth of recreational facilities already 
on hand, and this greatly mitigated the loneliness of the situation. 
Two glass-enclosed, heated, yearlong swimming pools were 
available. Three of the six ski lifts were kept in operation for 
Navy personnel and in season advantage was taken of the excellent 
skiing in the very fine powder snow of the area. Ice skating in 
winter was amply provided for, although the artificial rink was 
discontinued. Fishing, hunting, soft ball diamond, a gold course, 
tennis, badminton, and archery courts were all available. Indoor 
recreation was also ample. A 500-seat theatre with excellent equip- 
ment and first-run pictures obtained from Salt Lake City provided 
entertainment. Bowling alleys, air conditioned and soundproof with 
6 regulation alleys, were on hand as were pool tables, ping pong 
27 
tables, and ample equipment. 1 
The hospital is organized for care of convalescents and 
the medical and surgical departments are organized for such scr- 
2 3 
vice. The major work of the hospital is rehabilitation. 
The average monthly turnover of patients indicates the 
type of convalescence. 
27. Annual Sanitary Report, 19h3, 19hb', Annual Sanitary Report, 
19 k5, Cumulativc History, 
28. Soe Appendix I. Admitted iron other hospitals 2k7 
Discharged from service lil.3 
Transferred to limited duty 26 
Transferred for further treatment 21 
Transferred to full duty 17 
During the operation of this facility* more and more 
patients who required definitive treatment* especially orthopedic 
surgery* were received from West Coast hospitals. Facilities for 
their care were expanded and the surgical department increased in 
relative importance. 
The inauguration of the integrated rehabilitation program 
in 19UJh brought together and strengthened the various phases of 
this work. Quonset huts for storage of athletic gear and for 
gymnasium and game room purposes were erected. A building for ex- 
/ 
/ 
panded educational services was «sgLso provided. With the recreational 
advantages already on hand* the rehabilitation program started under 
30 
favorable auspices and maintained a high state of efficiency. 
Glenwood Springs 
The Glenwood Springs hospital is located at an elevation 
of 5>, 783 feet in the city of that name in west central Colorado. 
It is situated in a deep valley by the Colorado River where the 
bend of the canyon shelters the town from winds that sweep over 
the continental divide. The climate is mild, rarely is there a 
day without sunshine. The area is a resort center with several 
29. Annual Sanitary Report, 19U5, Cumulative History. 
30. Annual Sanitary Report, 19UU; Annual Sanitary Report, \9l\5, 
Cumulative History. hotels and a number of tourist cabin parks. 
The chief reason for the hospital building, and, in fact, 
the town, is the hot springs of that area. The largest of these 
is located in connection with the hospital and serves the largest 
outdoor hot mineral water swimming pool in the world.^ 
This hospital was formerly the Colorado Hotel which was 
leased by the Navy. The building was constructed in 1893 of native 
red sandstone and brick. It has a slate roof, and is six stories 
in height. The first floors were completely renovated by the Navy 
and made usable for hospital purposes, and a new heating system 
was During 19U3-19U1| there were extended negotiations 
concerning the purchase of the property, but this v/as finally 
abandoned,J However, the Navy installed a sprinkler system for 
fire protection, and several small auxiliary buildings were erected, 
including Quonset huts and buildings from the former Army Camp 
Hale.3^ 
The hospital is principally utilized for the care of ambu- 
latory arthritic, orthopedic, nerve injury, and combat fatigue 
cases. The majority of the patients were brought in by rail from 
the Bay Area of the West Coast, although, increasingly, naval 
hospitals throughout the United States sent acute and chronic 
31. Annual Sanitary Report, 19h3, Historical Supplement. 
32. Annual Sanitary Report, 19kSj Cuiaulative History. 
33. Annual Sanitary Report, 19bh, Historical Supplement. 
3U. Memorandum—Covering Inspection Trip of Rear Adm. E. L. Hoods, 
Inspector Medical Department Activities, Pacific Coast, 
25-3/ND (113), 18-29 Oct. 19U3- W - - - 
arthritis cases. The most effective part of the program has been 
that devoted to rehabilitation of nerve and joint cases. Almost 
as effective were the results in true combat fatigue cases, which 
comprised about one-third of the patient load. A Ul-foot portion 
of the 750-foot swimming pool was covered and made into a modern 
physical therapy section, replacing the old bath and steam house; 
tliis section serves as a therapeutic tank and the temperature is 
maintained at a higher level. The old vacuum system of the hospital 
was reversed to force jets of air into the bottom of the pool, and 
high pressure jets of water were used to make it a large Hubbard 
Therapeutic Tank. 
The rehabilitation program centers about the pool and the 
recreation it affords. As the patients are 98 percent ambulatory, 
a medical officer, athletic officer, and welfare and recreation 
officer are on duty there. Athletic teams, in competition with 
college and service teams, represent the activity in basketball 
and soft ball. Fishing, hunting, golfing, horseback riding, and 
mountain hiking, in season, are well patronized. Ice skating and 
skiing are enjoyed by a smaller number. Swimming in the warm water 
pool is mandatory for all patients, and is not only popular but of 
great value. Because the valley is sheltered, vrlth little wind, 
this activity is carried on even when the temperature is belovf 
The general health of the personnel was excellent, 
35. Annual Sanitary Report, 19hS, Cumulative History. 
36. Annual Sanitary Report, 1943; Annual Sanitary Report, 19h5, 
Cumulative History. 
13 there seldom being more than two on the sick list.^ 
This activity was placed in commission on 5 July 191*3 
after having been under consideration by the Navy since January. 
The first patients arrived on the 11th of the month. It serves 
only ambulatory male officers and enlisted men. Milder forms of 
neuropsychiatric patients are accepted in addition to the arthritic 
and orthopedic convalescents. The hospital ranked seventh in size 
oo 
and was eighth in patient load at the end of the War. 
Arrowhead Springs 
U. S. Naval Hospital, Arrowhead Springs, San Bernardino, 
California, was recommended for immediate acquisition by the Bureau 
in December of 19b33 and was approved by the Federal Board of Hospi- 
talization on 20 January. It was designated and established on 27 
March, commissioned on 23 May, and the following day received ii99 
patients (299 from Corona, 100 from San Diego, and 100 from Long 
The hospital is located 6 miles north of San Bernardino 
at the base of Arrowhead Mountain. It is almost directly east of 
Los Angeles. 
The Arrowhead Springs Hotel was the six-story, 39-room, 
fireproof structure taken over by the Navy to serve as the main unit 
of the hospital. On the grounds then wore also 90 cottages, a 
37. Annual Sanitary Report, 19 U3. 
38. Soe Appendix 0; Annual Sanitary Report, 19h$, Cumulative History. 
39. General Files N.H. 80; Federal Bureau of Hospitalization, 
Resolution 82, 20 Jan. 19UU. laundry, garage, and employees1 quarters. ?oTho area of the grounds 
was 1,700 acres, located in the foothills of the San Bernardino 
mountains. "The hotel was well-known as a resort for those who 
wanted to relax in a warm dry climate.In June of 19b$, con- 
struction was commenced on five temporary buildings to house the 
various units of the rehabilitation program. 
One of the most dramatic episodes in the history of this 
hospital was the serious tinder and brush fire which threatened it 
on 26 August 19Uii. Because of the forehanded plans of the commanding 
officer and the excellent 'work of the hospital fire department, 
corpsmcn, and patients with cooperation from the surrounding fire 
departments, the fire was kept away from hospital property.^ 
The organization of this hospital is similar to that of 
other special It cares for all types of officer and 
enlisted men patients, except mental and tuberculosis cases. "The 
only requirement being that they are male and ambulatory." As is 
common in most convalescent hospitals, a large number were ortho- 
pedic cases. During the period of activation of this installation 
up to 1 November 19U1|> it cared for 5,789 patients. Of these 5,ll|2 
were discharged in the following manner: 
Surveyed to civilian life 721 
Surveyed to limited duty 716 
Ii-O. Federal Board of 82, 20 Jan. 1955; 
Annual Sanitary Report, 1955., Cumulative History. 
51. Annual Sanitary Report, 1955, Historical Supplement. 
52. See Appendix P. 
- 20 - Discharged tor full duty ( 2,866 
Transferred to other hospitals 836 h3 
The problem of housing both officers and enlisted men 
is illustrated in the provisions made by this facility* 
ROOMS 
NO. 
OF PATIENTS 
6 
for single occupancy. Admirals and - •_ 
Senior Captains. These can go in 
bungalows h> 5, and 6—each bungalow 
having 2 bedrooms, each with private 
bath and a sitting room. 
o 6 
10 
for dual occupancy (Jr. Capts & Comdrs. 
) 20 
25 
for triple occupancy (Lt. Comdrs. or 
Sr. Lts.) 
75 
50 
for quadruple occupancy in double 
bunks, (Lts. to Ensigns) 
200 
91 
301 
There are a total of 139 rooms in the hospital 
- k rooms in terrace are used 
for office space, OD room, etc., 
leaving 135 rooms available for patients 
- 85 rooms for officer patients, 
as above 
leaving 50 rooms for enlisted personnel 
patients 
at average of x 6 per room 
300 enlisted patients 
Total capacity, 300 officers and 300 enlisted patients. 
The rehabilitation program of this hospital was considered to 
be its most effective portion of the medical program. This was a 
well-rounded program with study, work, and pleasure combined. A 
k3» Annual Sanitary Report, Cumulative History. 
kh. Capt. J. A. Biello, (MC), USN, (Ret.), C.O. of Arrowhead, to 
Chief Bulled, 29 Sept. 19bk, F.nc. A. curatorium 'was built and massages, sun baths, physical therapy, 
Neuhoim baths, and steam baths were afforded; the swimming pool 
also furnished relaxation as well as medicinal advantages. 
The education program at this facility was of particular 
worth because of the proximity of the San Bernardino High School 
and Junior College. These institutions graciously cooperated in 
allowing patients to attend regular classes or special review 
classes. All patients who were unable to pass a 7th grade test 
were required to attend a class at the hospital under instruction 
from teachers of the local system. Many ore Gits for high school and 
college work were obtained and all were benefited. 
Sea Gate, Brooklyn 
The U. S. Naval Special Hospital, Sea Gate, Brooklyn, New 
York, was planned during the spring, occupied 11 July, and commis- 
sioned on 30 August 19I4J4. The hospital grounds are one acre in 
extent, lying between V/est 28th and best 29th Streets adjacent to 
the Boardwalk at Coney Island. The land about the hospital is sandy 
with no shrubs, trees or grass, and the elevation is from sea leavel 
to a few feet above. The location is a part of the metropolitan 
1*6 
New York area. 
The activity occupies the building of the former Half Moon 
Hotel, a lli-story building of reinforced concrete, brick, fireproof 
Annual Sanitary Report, 19k5, Cumulative History. 
1|6. Annual Sanitary Report, 19k5} Cumulative History; Annual Sanitary 
Report, 19kk’3 Federal Hospital Board Resolution 100, 19 Apr. 19lj|. building contains 29U rooms and 5 public spaces 
CCtASW DECL,'- c.S: F! C \ 1 B 0 AR D 
which wore converted into offices, lounges, mess halls, chapel, and 
recreation space. The wards arc actually .floors with separate rooms 
of about lh x 16 feet. Each deck quarters about 110 patients. The 
building is well constructed and affords maximum heat, light and 
) 7 
ventilation. These quarters are comfortable both winter and summer. 
The building is serviced in all public places by a private 
contracting firm which also supplies the food. The total cost of 
food and building service averaged only per man per day, a 
considerable saving to the government. Some 65 civilians were em- 
ployed by the contract for this work. The hospital laundry was 
done under contract by the Federal Prisons Industries rather than 
by installing equipment and using staff members.^ 
The hospital is designated for male patients only, both 
officers and enlisted men. It serves general medical and surgical 
convalescents and ncuropsychiatric cases ’who are awaiting discharge. 
Therefore, both the medical department and the surgical department 
h9 
are limited to treatment of non-operative procedures. Lluch of 
the laboratory work is done at U. S. Naval Hospital, Brooklyn, New 
York. 
The rehabilitation program differed from that noted in con- 
nection with other special hospitals in two particular phases. The 
first v/as the use of printing as one of the occupational therapy 
hi • Annual Sanitary Report, 19UU- 
U8. Annual Sanitary Report, 19kh» 
b9 • Bulled to LlcdOfCom, NavHosps, NavConvalHosps, 20 liar. 1 • activities. In February of 19U5 the hospital was given a printing 
press by the Red Cross and soon thereafter the Linotype Post No. 
1202 of the American Legion gave a typesetting machine. The second 
unusual feature was the work program by the Arm Corporation. This 
was similar to the program already underway at St. Albans whereby 
patients made parts which were vital to machines and munitions in 
♦ 
the v’ar effort. Both of these ’were productive work projects and 
therefore frequently an uplift to morale, ',/hen a patient leaves 
this or any other special hospital, he has enjoyed the maximum 
benefits of hospitalization and has been tended by all the physical 
E>0 
and educational benefits of the rehabilitation program. 
Sea Gate.'presented a situation quite different from that of 
any special hospital heretofore established,"except possibly that 
at Santa Cruz, in that it was an integrated part of a metropolitan 
area. Therefore, entertainment was.no special problem for this: 
hospital. The problems of transportation, sewage, water, and fire 
protection were cared for in whole or in part by existing facilities. 
This hospital was the eighth largest in size but in actual patient 
load was sixth in size at the close of the T/ar. 
This hospital was especially established to serve the U. S. 
Naval Hospitals, Brooklyn, and St. Albans. As New York was the port 
of debarkation for the European Theater of Operations as well as an 
5>0. Annual Sanitary Report, 19h5, Cumulative History. 
5l. Appendix 0. active is-aining and storv-ice center, these hospitals were continually 
crowded and Sea Gate enabled many additional beds to be made avail- 
able. 
Springfield 
The U. S. Naval Special Hospital, Springfield, Massachusetts, 
was placed in commission on 8 September 19UU. The availability of 
the installation was brought to the attention of the Bureau by 
International Young Men’s Christian Association College in the spring. 
Previously, the college grounds and buildings had been used by a 
Bp 
training detachment of the Army Air Corps. 
The college grounds are located within the city limits about 
two miles from the center of the city of Springfield, in southwestern 
Massachusetts. The buildings leased by the Navy are on high ground 
that slopes down to artificial Lake Hassasoit. There arc 1k9 acres 
in several parcels. On one section is located the hospital build- 
ing, previously used as a college dormitory, which is a four-story 
brick structure. There are no wards in the building, but roons 
accomodate from 2 to 5 patients under the best conditions, and space 
for offices is also available. The administration building provides 
for offices on the first floor and nurses’ and 'NAVES’ quarters on 
the second. The commissary is an old brick building in good state 
of repair, with adequate facilities for messing. Those throe 
52. Annual Sanitary Pteport, 1945 > Cumulative History; Federal Board 
of Hospitalization, resolution 113, 26 Juno 1914;. buildings are connected by enclosed, heated, underblock passageways. 
The Hospital Corps quarters, gymnasium, library, and garage all are 
53 
used for hospital purposes. 
Under the terms of the lease the Navy pays a monthly rental 
and retains the college1s maintenance employees to provide heat, 
light, upkeep, and commissary for the patients and hospital staff. 
Food was provided by the Supply Officer, Boston, from the nearby 
Army Y/cstcver Airfield, and locally. All maintenance items not 
obtainable through the regular naval facilities were secured through 
the services of the college contractor. "Relations and dealings 
between the naval special hospital and the International Young Lien’s 
Christian Association authorities have been eminently satisfactory. 
The latter have always been motivated by high patriotic, unselfish, 
and helpful considerations."-^"4' 
A large proportion of the patients, about 60 percent, have 
been orthopedic cases. This type requires a considerable amount of 
medical attention. The physical training facilities available at 
this institution have been particularly beneficial, Thirty percent 
of the patients have been medical or mild neuroses and the "fatigues" 
brought back from combat areas. The disposition of the patients 
was 57 percent discharged to duty, 30 percent discharged to other 
hospitals, and 13 percent discharged by medical survey. 
53. Annual Sanitary Report, 191*5, Cumulative History. 
5U. Ibid. 
26 The plant of the hospital is especially designed to facili- 
tate a rehabilitation program. The athletic training plant is ex- 
ceptional, for the college specialized in physical training. An 
adequate occupational therapy department was added. "The proximity 
of the hospital to the highly friendly and patriotic city of Spring- 
field, whose officials and welfare organizations and citizens outdid 
themselves in offering hospitality and aid to the patients, demon- 
strated that the selection of this site for a convalescent hospital 
was a wise one."^ 
The hospital accepted male enlisted men only. At the 
close of hostilities it ranked ninth in size and in patient load. 
Banning 
The U. S. Naval Banning3 California, v/as first 
planned in May and commissioned 2 October 19UU. It received only 
enlisted men who were preparing for discharge. This installation 
was also designated as a specialized unit for asthmatic cases which 
developed after the patient entered the naval service. 
The grounds and buildings were taken over from the Army, 
which had used it as the 297 Headquarters Army Field Hospital to 
care for the desert training program. The plot was Ilf? acres in 
extent and located in the foothills of the San Gorgonio Mountains 
in San Gorgonio Pass, The setting is excellent, as it affords a 
55. Annual Sanitary Report, 19u5> Cumulative History. 
56. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 105, 29 Hay 19hbj 
Bulled to HedOfCom, NavHosp, NavConvalHosps, 20 Liar. 19U5. view of the San Jacinto Range as well, and those two ranges provide 
protection from the north and south. The plot is three miles from 
the city of Banning at an altitude of 2,i|00 feet. The air has a 
low humidity and California sunshine prevails. Los ..ngeles is 90 
miles to the west. The temperatures are usually over 100° on summer 
days, but the nights are cool. In winter there is heavy rainfall 
and the temperature is relatively cool. 
The compound includes 92 buildings hastily constructed and 
temporary in character. None of the buildings was insulated or 
lined, and the pine floors had wide cracks. Fuel oil stoves pro- 
vided heat in v/inter and "old hot water heaters insulated vdth 
cardboard served a shower room and head in each building." Much 
work was done by the Navy to bring the physical plant up to Navy 
standards. The floors were covered, new gas space heaters installed, 
and the buildings reconditioned and insulated. A Quonset hut was 
erected as a recreation building. 
Because of the situation of the hospital, a great many arthri- 
tis , rheumatic fever, bronchial, pulmonary and orthopedic cases were 
cared for. Allergy cases were also given special treatment here. 
The high altitude, equitable climate, and low pollen and mold count 
made the hospital an ideal site for a controlled study of asthmatics. 
Some lj.96 patients of this type were treated. Of these, lj.86 were ad- 
mitted with a diagnosis of asthma. Of this number, 75 percent were 
evacuated from overseas duty. “ \. • ‘ . _ 1 
Many patients were admitted who were suffering from combat fatigue and, at the beginning, some with mild 
psychoses. It is interesting to note that many patients 
returning from overseas, transferred here as psychotic, 
later had their diagnosis changed to *No Disease*. A 
number were surveyed out of the service with that diag- 
nosis. Toward the end of the Mar many desired to leave 
the service and were willing to accept the diagnosis 
of psychoses. Each was separately interviewed by the 
Commanding Officer. Practically all were found to be 
exaggerating certain subjective symptoms. Uhcn it was 
explained to them thoroughly that they were normal and 
if they received a psychosis diagnosis it might reflect 
on their families and themselves, as well as having an 
effect on their future, their mental attitude changed to 
one of self-confidence and optimism. Those who ’were not 
returned to duty were surveyed as with ’No Disease*. 
The latter because they had been in actual combat and it 
seemed beneficial to them to be returned to civilian 
status as merely unfit for service. 57 
Beaumont 
The U. S. Naval Hospital, Beaumont, California, was 
established at the same time as Banning* 2 October 19UU* It is 
located four miles north of Beaumont in the Cherry Valley* a 
sparcely populated area between the San Jacinto and San Gorgonio 
Mountains. The valley is irrigated and supports orchards and grain* 
a striking contrast with the waste lands of the surrounding mountains. 
The reservation consists of a 100-acro plot completely barren of 
trees and shrubs* and with very little grass. The clay soil pre- 
sents an erosion problem during the rainy season* and claims were 
filed against the Navy because of damage done to orchards due to 
surface wash,^ 
57. Annual Sanitary Report, 19^5, Cumulative History. 
58. Annual Sanitary Report, 19UU. The average temperature is 53 degrees with readings well 
over 100 degrees during much of the summer. The seasons are those 
typical of southern California, a wet season in winter and spring 
and a dry season in summer and fall. During the dry season there 
is considerable dust in the air. 
The compound contained 90 buildings of which 3h were 
wards and the remainder administrative and auxiliary structures and 
quarters. They were "Army huttments", wooden frame buildings with 
single faced bulkheads, wooden floors without covering, and unsealed. 
The roofs leaked occasionally, and patients had to walk a long way 
59 
to mess. 
"The general hygienic condition of the areas surrounding 
the hospital are excellent, with the exception that because of the 
proximity of stock barns and other similar breeding places there 
is an excessive number of flics, especially during the hot months." 
The recreation facilities were meager, movies being shown each 
evening. Liberty parties went to Riverside and Los Angeles. 
The hospital received as patients only enlisted men who 
were general medical and surgical convalescents, and neuropsychia- 
trie patients who were awaiting discharge.^0 
At the close of the '.Tar, it was fourth in size and ranked 
eleventh^in patient load. 
59- Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 105, 29 May 1955; 
General Correspondence Files87. 
60. R. T LIcIntire to MedOfCom, NavHosp, NavConvalHosp, 20 Mar. 1955 Asbuiy Park 
The Asbury Park Special Hospital was the largest of the 
special hospitals of this type. The institution was housed in a 
group of buildings formerly used as a receiving ship for the British 
Royal Navy and known as "H.II.S. Asbury", and later as the U. S. Naval 
Pre-midshipmen's *•’ School. It v/as considered for hospital purposes in 
January of 19U5 and commissioned on 10 April.^ 
The group contains Berkelcy-Cartcrct Hotel, which is the 
main building, a fireproof structure of five floors with a capacity 
of 1,5>00 patients. The building has four floors used as wards, each 
having 320 beds, and the administrative offices, library, chapel, 
storerooms, patients1 recreation rooms, and arts and skills unit. 
The former Monterey Hotel is used as quarters for men and 
women enlisted personnel, the general mess, Shipls service, and 
other service facilities. The Convention Hall building is the 
center of recreation activities such as movies, concerts, shows and 
dances. It also serves for physical training and remedial gymnasium 
activities, and the educational services with shops, and work and 
study spaces. During the summer months, the open air pool and beach 
are used for recreational purposes, and the solarium has sundecks 
and recreation rooms.^ 
This hospital is similar to Sea Gate in that it is adjacent 
to a metropolitan area where many ambulatory patients can easily go 
61. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution II4.8, 29 Jan. 19k%» 
62. Annual Sanitary Report, I9IU4-. for recreational purposes in contrast with most hospitals of this 
type Y/hich are far removed from crovmled areas. 
The hospital contained 55l patients at the close of the 
’Jar and ranked seventh among this type of facility. 
Palm Beach 
The last special hospital to be established before V-J 
Day was Palm Beach, which was commissioned on 21 May 19l|5. The 
Palm Beach Biltmore Hotel was previously used by the U. S. Coast 
Guard as a SPAR training station for a period of 18 months prior to 
use by .the Navy, 
The building was a 10-story reinforced concrete structure 
in which the floors had never been finished, and carpeting was used 
over heavy padding. For hospital purposes this was unsatisfactory, 
and the carpets vrcre removed from the ward floors and filler cement 
poured. "In spite of labor troubles and delay in procurement of 
materials, all conversion plans were rapidly consumated." 
Fully 95 percent of the patients were victims of rheumatic 
fever and few were considered fit for return to full duty status, 
especially after the first few months of operation of the hospital. 
As at other special hospitals, the rehabilitation program 
was the most important work of the institution. "The mild climate, 
abundance of sunshine, and availability of surf bathing in warm salt 
.63. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 152, 23 Fob. 19l±5. 
32 water afforded a most beneficial environment for the convalescent 
treatment of rheumatic fever cases. Many of the patients who had 
come to this hospital as pale,, anemic, underweight youths with 
flabby musculature, were transformed in a few weeks to well-tanned 
sturdy looking lads, with a new light in their eyes, and a look of 
confidence in their countenances."^4 
The community cooperation with the hospital was very fine. 
The various civic clubs and servicemen*s organizations and many 
social organizations arranged picnics, deep-sea fishing, sightseeing 
trips, boat rides, and many individual "family-style" dinners. The 
patients were also accepted by the high school and junior college 
for enrollment in regular classes, and special classes were es- 
tablished for their convenience. 
Although this hospital was initiated late in the T7ar, it 
served to lighten the load on general hospitals at a very crucial 
period. 
An early experiment with special hospitals also took place 
in Palm Beach. Soon after Pearl Harbor, Mrs. Amy Guest offered her 
palatial home, Villa Artemis, to the Navy. The matter was delayed 
until 2 November 19l|2, 'when the Bureau recommended that the home 
be designated and established as the U. S. Naval Convalescent Hospi- 
tal, Palm Beach, Florida. There is no record of such official 
action. However, the hospital did receive a limited number of 
6k, Annual Sanitary Report, 19UU. officer patients. Mrs. Guest, who had had World War I experience 
in hospital work, assisted with the rehabilitation activities. The 
65 
hospital was closed 21+ July 19U3 - 
Camp White 
As early as September 19l+U* the Navy started negotiations 
with the Army leading to the commissioning of Camp White as a U. S. 
naval special hospital on 31 August 191+5• A number of factors 
caused this long delay, including some question over the advisabil- 
ity of granting "Station Hospital" treatment to Army personnel in 
the area, involving the problem of divided command.^ 
Camp Wallace 
This was the second Amy hospital transferred to the Navy 
following the close of the War. Negotiations started in April of 
191+1+ and the institution was placed in commission on 5 September 
19U5• The unit had a stated capacity of 1+65 beds. It is expected 
that this hospital will be decommissioned at the time Houston is 
commissioned so that the latter may start with a sizable patient 
load.^ 
65. Chief Bulled to Chief BuPers, 20 Fob. 191+3. Chief Bulled to' 
ComOf, Sampson, N. H., 10 June 191+3. 
66. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 169* 2 June 191+5; 
General Files,N.H. 91. 
67. Federal Board of Hospitalization, Resolution 103* 19 Apr. 191+1+* 
General 85. Conclusion 
A consideration of the several special hospitals leads to 
the conclusion that such a system can be of Very considerable value 
at a time when regular general hospital facilities are being over- 
taxed by excessive patient loads as they are during periods of 
active combat in major wars. 
It would be advisable for the Bureau to have prepared plans 
for the conversion of existing facilities, such as hotels, schools 
and sanitoriums for use in a period of emergency. Preparatory 
planning would no doubt eliminate many of the errors in selection 
of site and method of operation caused by the press of necessity 
during a war. The true function of such institutions must always 
be kept in mind. They are for completely ambulatory patients, and 
so only a comparatively small amount of floor space need be used 
for clinical facilities, while most of the available floors would 
be used for double deck beds. A rehabilitation program would be 
the chief activity, and equipment for a well-rounded program of 
physical and educational facilities should be provided. The selec- 
tion of site should be made in the light of experiences narrated in 
the account of the special hospitals during the recent War. 
The ambulatory patients in these hospitals desire ample 
recreation which is provided only at great expense in beautiful 
but isolated areas. Quiet and healthful surroundings in proximity 
to a .large metropolitan area solve this problem- with least ex- 
pense to the government and greatest convenience to the patient. 
The organizational framework of special hospitals should 
be carefully considered in the light of their function rather than 
by the president of the general hospital. A study of the existing 
charts of these hospitals in Appendix F will indicate the trend of 
recognizing the special function. 
36 APPENDIX A 
Duty Status of Personnel of U. S. Naval Hospitals 
for Years 19h2, and 19hh 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports .for each hospital. APPENDIX A (Cont»d.) 
DUT1 STATUS OF PERSONNEL OF U. S. NAVAL HOSPITALS 
FOR'THE YEAR 19L3 
Totals 
Officers 
Enlisted 
Men 
Nurses 
Rank 
Annapolis, Md. 
255 
32 
189 
3h 
32 
Bainbridge, Md, 
1*90 
h9 
363 
78 
22 
Bremerton, Wash. 
385 
55 
280 
50 
25 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
872 
101 
595 
176 
9 
Charleston, S. C. 
3t*0 
hi 
221 
72 
28 
Chelsea, Mass. 
862 
92 
602 
168. 
11 
Corona, Calif. 
795 
93 
585 
117 
13 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
560 
50 
hSh 
56 
18 
Farragut, Idaho 
872 
72 
6kS 
152 
10 
Great Lakes, 111. 
3*853 
128 
4*36 
289 
3 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
578 
63 
hl6 
99 
17 
Key West, Fla. 
217 
3h 
160 
23 
33 
Long Beach, Calif. 
915 
85 
656 
17U 
8 
Mare Island, Calif. 
998 
91 
728 
179 
7 
Memphis, Term. 
359 
h9 
261 
h9 
26 
Newport, R. I. 
516 
68 
370 
78 
21 
New River, N. C. 
387 
52 
21*5 
90 
2h 
Norfolk, Va. 
835 
73 
629 
133 
12 
Norman, Okla. 
3U8 
hQ 
253 
hi 
27 
Oakland, Calif. 
lh9 
1662 
292 
2 
Oceanside, Calif. 
56o 
59 
li05 
96 
19 
Parris Island, S. C. 
291 
39 
216 
36 
29 
Pensacola, Fla. 
1*53 
51 
335 
67 
23 
Philadelphia, pa. 
1,117 
160 
669 
288 
6 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
261 
26 
205 
30 
31 
Portsmouth, Va. 
1392 
137 
893 
362 
5 
Quantico, Va. 
278 
36 
218 
24 
30 
Sampson, N. Y. 
735 
60 
1*78 
197 
Hi 
San Diego, Calif. 
2,740 
66 
377 
1 
San Francisco (T.I.), Calif. 
517 
65 
386 
66 
20 
Seattle, Washington 
709 
83 
1*90 
136 
15 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
795 
63 
620 
107 
16 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
1^26 
131 
1075 
220 
li 
TOTALS 
2^814 
2fL2 
i^oUo 
1*^62 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports For Each Hospital APPENDIX A 
DUTY STATUS OF PERSONNEL OF U. S. NAVAL HOSPITALS 
FOR THE YEAR 19^2 
Totals 
.'Officers-: 
“Enlisted 
Men 
Nurses 
Rank 
Annapolis, Md. 
213 
28 
162 
23 
20 
Bremerton, Wash, 
390 
Uo 
308 
U2 
13 
Brooklyn, N. I, 
875 
90 
622 
163 
5 
Charleston, S. C. 
280 
33 
213 
3U 
18 
Chelsea, Mass. 
553 
82 
372 
99 
8 
Corona, Calif. 
288 
39 
205 
UU 
17 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
U33 
51 
3U3 
3U 
10 
Great Lakes, 111. 
V+5l 
101 
3,09 U 
256 
2 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
390 
50 
253 
87 
12 
Key West, Fla. 
173 
23 
137 
13 
21 
Mare Island, Calif. 
833 
101 . 
571 
161 
6 
Nei/vport, R. I. 
hlk 
62 
331 
81 
9 
Oakland, Calif, 
653 
95 
U68 
90 
7 
Parris Island, S. C. 
313 
39 
2U2 
32 
15 
Pensacola, Fla. 
Uo? 
Uo 
326 
Ul 
11 
Philadelphia, pa. 
908 
135 
610 
163 
U 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
31*1 
2U 
296 
21 
1U 
Portsmouth, Va. 
1121 
13U 
837 
l5o 
3 
Quantico, Va. 
165 
29 
121 
15 
22 
San Biego, Calif. 
1,747 
200 
3,270 
277 
1 
San Francisco (T.I.), Calif. 
239 
uo 
159 
Uo 
19 
Seattle, Washington 
311 
U5 
210 
56 
16 
TOTALS 
12^58 
1^01 
9^-55 
U922 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports For Each Hospital APPENDIX A (Pontid.) 
DUTY STATUS OF PERSONNEL OF U. S. NAVAL HOSPITALS 
FOR THE YEAR 1944 
Totals 
Officers 
Enlisted 
Men 
Nurses 
• 
Rank 
Annapolis, Md. 
212 
21 
165 
27 
36 
Astoria, Oregon 
297 
56 
210 
51 
33 
Bainbridge, Md, 
yss 
63 
V+26 
boS 
96 
5 
Bronertcn, Wash. 
517 
51 
61 
23 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
778 
107 
507 
165 
17 
Charleston, S. C. 
5.20 
57 
295 
63 
30 
Chelsea, Mass. 
IP$2 
106 
7Sk 
192 
11 
Corona, Calif. 
U27 
118 
l/j.02 
207 
5 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
536 
56 
397 
83 
22 
Farragut, Idaho 
iph2 
76 
783 
183 
12 
Great Lakes, 111. 
123 
3,085 
286 
8 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
59 0 
69 
385 
136 
20 
Key West, Fla. 
280 
35 
218 
28 
35 
Long Beach, Calif. 
968 
102 
711+ 
152 
15 
Mare Island, Calif. 
970 
99 
702 
169 
13 
Memohis, Term. 
551 
50 
352 
59 
27 
New Orleans, La. 
559 
63 
313 
73 
28 
Newport, R. I. 
1+93 
65 
33b 
95 
25 
New River, N. C. 
551 
55 
391 
90 
a 
Norfolk, Va. 
735 
72 
533 
130 
19 
Norman, Okla. 
1+57 
57 
335 
65 
25 
Oakland, Calif. 
2+l30 
191+ 
3,571 
365 
2 
Oceanside, Calif. 
7h0 
71 
5 76 
93 
18 
Parris Island, S. C. 
316 
39 
266 
38 
31 
Pensacola, Fla. 
558 
53 
286 
109 
29 
Philadelphia, pa. 
1513 
192 
937 
385 
6 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
267 
32 
205 
30 
35 
Pert smouth, Va. 
yi3 
138 
5030 
31+5 
7 
Quantico, Va. 
330 
37 
268 
25 
32 
Sampson, N. Y. 
9 28 
75 
650 
215 
15 
San Diego, Calif. 
3(201 
336 
21+98 
557 
1 
San Francisco (T.I.), Calif. 
555 
57 
330 
68 
26 
San Leandro, Calif. 
787 
72 
605 
no 
16 
Seattle, Washington 
UOl; 
128'- 
870 
106 
10 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
1116 
100 
869 
11+7 
9 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
1,880 
183 
5509 
288 
3 
. TOTALS 
3^359 
3195 
23901 
p 73 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports For Each Hospital APPENDIX B 
Average Strength of Personnel of U. S. Naval Hospitals 
for Years 19b2} 19h3 and 19UU 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports for each hospital. APPENDIX E 
AVERAGE STRENGTH OF PERSONNEL OF U. S. NAVAL HOSPITALS 
FOR TIE YEAR 194? 
Total 
Officers 
Enlisted 
Men 
Nurses. 
■ Rank, 
Annapolis, Md. 
167.0 
23.0 
125.0 
19.0 
20 
Bremerton, Nash. 
illl.O 
1*5.2 
326.6 
39.2 
6 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
51*5.1 
80.5 
356.0 
108.6 
5 
Charleston, S. C. 
197.5 
29.3 
143.0 
25.2 
17 
Chelsea, Hass. 
U08.0 
66.0 
2149.0 
93.0 
7 
Corona, Calif. 
2l*3.o 
30.0 
178.0 
35.0 
16 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
31*2.1 
hh.3 
267.8 
30.0 
11 
Great Lakes, 111. 
890.0 
90.0 
675.0 
125.0 
1 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
260.5 
42.0 
I69.O 
1*9.5 
15 
Key Host, Fla. 
126.0 
23.0 
91.0 
12.0 
22 
Mare Island, Calif. 
770.0 
88.0 
565.0 
117.0 
3 
Newport, R. I. 
366.2 
50.S 
261*.9 
50.5 
8 
Oa kland, Calif. 
35U.3 
U8.3 
254.1 
51.9 
10 
Parris Island, S. C. 
30U.0 
73.2 
208.8 
‘22.0 
13 
Pensacola, Fla. 
359.7 
1*2.0 
292.1* 
25.3 
9 
Philadelphia, pa. 
663.2 
108.1 
1*28.9 
126.2 
h 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
131*. 7 
18.5 
100.1 
16.1 
21 
Portsmouth, Va. 
862.0 
113.0 
621.0 
120.0 
2 
Quanticc, Va. 
175.0 
25.0 
135.0 
15.0 
19 
San Diego, Calif. 
l£lk.O 
160.0 
y.oi.0 
253.0 
111 
San Francisco (T.I.), 
Calif. 185.0 
31.0 
132.8 
21.2 
18 
Seattle, Washington 
307.5 
39.5 
207.5 
60.5 
12 
TOTALS 
9585.8 
1270.7 
6,891.9 
11*23.2 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports for each hospital. APPENDIX D (ConttcU) 
AVERAGE STRENGTH OF PERSONNEL OF U. S. NAVAL HOSPITALS 
FOR THE YE.gR l?ii3 
Total 
Officers 
Enlisted 
Hen 
Nurses 
Rank 
Annapolis, Lid. 
219.0 
30.0 
161.0 
23.0 
32 
Bainbridge, Md. 
681.3 
46.1 
556.6 
78.6 
12 
Bremerton, Wash. 
401.4 
1+5.5 
302.9 
53.0 
24 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
775.9 
107.6 
1+59.8 
206.5 
10 
Charleston, S. C. . 
279.0 
36.5 
188.3 
51+.2 
28 
Chelsea, Mass. 
680.0 
86.0 
420.0 
17U .0 
13 
Corona, Calif. 
595.0 
67.0 
1+39.0 
89.0 
15 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
465.3 
53.1 
364.8 
47.4 
19 
Farragut, Idaho 
791.5 
58.6 
575.1+ 
157.5 
8 
Great Lakes, 111. 
11+21+. 0 
132.0 
1,009.0 
283.0 
2 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
1+59.2 
57.6 
309.0 
92.6 
20 
Key West, Fla. 
191+.0 
29.0 
11+3.0 
22.0 
33 
Long Beach, Calif. 
1+73.0 
55.0 
358.0 
65.0 
18 
Mare Island, Calif. 
871.2 
107.5 
591.0 
172.7 
7 
Memphis, Term. 
312.0 
1+2.0 
229.0 
4l.O 
27 
Newport, R. I. 
591.5 
68.6 
1+31+.3 
88.6 
14 
New River, N. C. 
391.0 
14;. 0 
267.0 
80.0 
25 
Norfolk, Va. 
753.2 
87.5 
51+9.7 
116.0 
11 
Norman, Okla. 
367.0 
36.0 
289.0 
42.0 
26 
Oakland, Calif. 
1221.0 
119.0 
891.0 
211.0 
3 
Oceanside, Calif, 
1;43.0 
l;i. 0 
31+1.0 
66.0 
21 
Parris Island, S. C. 
269.0 
37.6 
196.3 
35.1 
29 
Pensacola, Fla. 
403.0 
50.0 
298.0 
55.0 
23 
Philadelphia, pa. 
997.2 
165.3 
576.8 
255.1 
5 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
21+6.5 
12.2 
209.5 
24.8 
30 
Portsmouth, Va. 
\177.0 
131.0 
842.0 
204.0 
4 
Quantico, Va. 
21+3.0 
32.0 
188.0 
23.0 
31 
Sampson, N. Y. 
786.7 
63.9 
51+7.6 
175.2 
9 
San Diego, Calif. 
5173.0 
233.0 
1596.0 
31+1+.0 
1 
San Francisco (T.I.), 
Calif. 437.0 
58.0 
325.0 
51+.0 
22 
Seattle, Washington 
577.0 
71.8 
369.1 
116.1 
16 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
507.0 
57.0 
363.0 
67.0 
17 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
916.0 
87.0 
646.0 
183.0 
6 
TOTALS 
21130.9 
2348.4 
15,076.1 
3,706.1+ 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports for each hospital- APPENDIX B (ContVu.) 
AVERAGE STRENGTH OF PERSONNEL OF U. S. NAVAL HOSPITAL 
FOR THE YEAR 19 W* ' 
Total 
Officers 
Enlisted 
Men 
Nurses 
Rank 
Annapolis, Mel. 
230.0 
25.0 
173.0 
32.0 
35 
Astoria, Oreg. 
259.8 
36.u 
181+.7 
38.7 
36 
Bainbridge, Lid. 
• 683.95 
59.25 
531.7 
93.0 
8 
Bremerton, Wash. 
5oi. £ 
1+7.3 
383.3 
7 0.9 
27 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
6U3.5 
93.3 
U06.5 
11+8.7 
19 
Charleston, S. C. 
k2h.C 
U8.0 
309.0 
67.0 
30 
Chelsea, Llass. 
833.0 
91.0 
51+U.o 
198.0 
lk 
Corona, Calif. 
lk?2.0 
100.0 
1208.0 
18U.0 
5 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
529.9 
53.1+ 
*399.0 
76.7 
25 
Farragut, Idaho 
983.5 
75.1+ 
813.0 
95.1 
12 
Great Lakes, 111. 
3^13.0 
12U.0 
1069.0 
320.0 
h 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
529.2 
62. k 
359.0 
107.8 
26 
Key West, Fla. 
280.0 
29.0 
223.0 
28.0 
33 
Long Beach, Calif. 
lpl6.0 
90.0 
777.0 
1U9.0 
10 
Mare Island, Calif. 
lpo6.3 
82.5 
735.2 
183.6 
11 
Memphis, Tenn. 
1+71.0 
1+9.0 
372.0 
50.0 
29 
New Orleans, La. 
576.0 
51.0 
U5o.o 
75.0 
20 
Newport, R. I. 
539.6 
65.8 
376.9 
96.9 
23 
Now River, N. C. 
539.0 
56.0 
393.0 
90.0 
2b 
Norfolk, Va. 
Sou. 9 
76.1 
595.6 
133.2 
15 
Norman, Okla. 
1+51+. o 
52.0 
31+7.0 
55.0 
22 
Oakland, Calif. 
2,033.0 
168.0 
1552.0 
303.0 
2 
Oceanside, Calif. 
705.0 
6U.0 
539.0 
102.0 
18 
Parris Island, S. C. 
292.0 
36.0 
219.5 
37.3 
32 
Pensacola, Fla. 
U89.0 
53.0 
333.0 
10330 
28 
Philadelphia, pa. 
1229.3 
161+.0 
337.3 
328.0 
7 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
274.2 
23.8 
220.1 
30.3 
3k 
Portsmouth, Va. 
1U90.5 
123.3 
1,007.1 
360.1 
6 
Quantico, Va. 
"330.0 
32.0 
272.0 
26.0 
31 
Sampson, N. Y. 
73k.h 
69.5 
1+1+9.3 
215.6 
17 
San Diego, Calif. 
329k. 0 
280.0 
2570.0 
1+36.0 
1 
San Francisco (T.I.), 
Calif. 512.0 
61.0 
380.0 
71.0 
21 
San Leandro, Calif. 
792.8 
65.6 
610.8 
116.1+ 
16 
Seattle, Washington 
973.7 
91+.7 
735.0 
ikb.o 
13 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
UP71.0 
8U.0 
810.0 
177.0 
9 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
161+9.0 
151+.0 
I3.96.O 
299.0 
3 
TOTALS 
36,1+31.1+ 
3,373.0 
23,339.8 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports for each hospital* APPENDIX C 
Hospitals in Commission 
1. 7 December 19Ul 
2. 16 December I9I4I 
3. 1 January 19l|2 to 1 January 19h3 
h» 1 January 191+3 to 1 January 19UU* 
5. 1 January 19kh to 1 January 19U5 
6. 1 January 19 to 1 January 191*6 
7. To be commissioned in 19U6 
Source: General Correspondence piles, MSS 
Annual Sanitary Reports for hospitals 
Cumulative Histories for hospitals APPENDIX C 
HOSPITALS IN COHLHSSION 
7 December 191+1 
ANNAPOLIS, LID. 
BREMERTON, WASHINGTON 
BROOKLYN, N. Y. 
CHARLESTON, S. C. 
CHELSEA, LASS. 
CORPUS CHRISTI, TEX. 
GREAT LUCES, ILL. 
JACKSONVILLE, FL\. 
DARE ISLAND, CALIF. 
NEWPORT, R. I. 
PARRIS ISLAND, 3. C. 
PENS A COLL, FLA. 
PHILADELPHIA, PA. 
PORTSMOUTH, N. H. 
PORTSMOUTH, VA. (Norfolk) 
QUAN'TICO, VA. 
SAN DIEGO, CALIF. 
WASHINGTON, D. C. 
16_ December , 19l|l 
Corona, Calif. 
Sourco: General Correspondence Files., M&S. HOSPITALS COMMISSIONED 
I January 19L.2 to 1 January . 19li3 
Bethesda, Md. 5 Fcb#19l|2 
San Francisco, Calif. I * ij. Apr^19^2 
(Treasure Island) V 
AUTHORITY bum?o 
Oakland, Calif. df.cl s 1 Jul* 19ij.2 
Seattle, Wash. 22 Aug,19l|2 
Key West, Fla. 19 Oct.l9ii2 
Norfolk/(NOB), Va, •• . 2 Nov, 19^2 
Norman, Okla. ’ 1/ Nov* 191; 2 
Long Beach, Calif. 15 Doc.l9i*2 
1- January, 19 to 1 January, 19hb 
Farragut, Idaho 15> Jan.l9U3 
Bainbridge, Md. h Feb,19/3 
St. Albans, N. Y. 13 Fcb,19li3 
Sampson, N. Y. 27 Feb, 1943 
Memphis, Term. 1 Mar* 19/3 
New Orleans, La. 1 191+3 
New River, N. C. 1 May 19 U3 
Oceans! Li.0 y Calif. 3 Sept. 19h3 
Shoemaker, Calif. 1 Oct„19U3 
,1' 19Ul| _ /to ]_ January 19U5 
San Leandro, Calif. 15> Aug.19UU 
Fort Eustis, Va. 29 Aug.lRUU 
Astoria, Oregon 17 Oct 19U/- 
Source: General Correspondence Files, M&S HOSPITALS COMMISSIONED (Cont'cl.) 
- r- - 
1 .1945 -to1 1 JanuaryJ-1946 
Dublin, Ga. 22 Jar*19li5 
Corvallis, Ore. 3 Fcbv19li5> 
To bo Corxiissioned in 19U6 
Houston, Tex. 1 Marv19U6 
Source: General Correspondence Files, M&S APPENDIX D 
Hospital Capacity and Load — 191*1 
1. East Coast 
2. 'Jest Coast 
Source: Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX D 
HOSPITAL CAPACITY A PATIENT LOAD OF EAST & 17EST COAST HOSPITALS--I9kl 
EAST COAST 
Hospitals Beds Authorized 
Patient Load 
Annapolis, Md. 
1927 
83 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
580 
58? 
Charleston, S. C. 
117 
12k 
Chelsea, Mass. 
335 
1*95 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
420 
206 
Great Lakes, 111. 
501 
350 
Jacksonville, Fla, 
Uoo 
209 
Newport, R. I. 
U65 
215 
Norfolk, Va. 
1,298 
1,199 
Parris Island, S. C. 
209 
215 
Pensacola, Fla. 
386 
227 
Philadelphia, pa. 
663 
6U3 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
190 
12k 
Quantico, Va. 
131 
113 
17ashin gton, D. C. 
23k 
210 
TOTALS 
6,121 
5,037 
17 E S 
T COAST 
Mare Island, Calif. 
58U 
676 
Puget Sound, Hash. 
308 
299 
San Diego, Calif. 
l,k2h 
1,360 
TOTALS 
2,316 
2,335 
Source: Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX E 
Organizational Chart's, U. S. N. Hospitals 
1. Annapolis, Maryland 
2. Great Lakes, Illinois 
3. Jacksonville, Florida 
h» Key V/cst, Florida 
5« Long Beach, California 
6. Hare Island, California 
7. Memphis, Tennessee 
8. Newport, Rhode Island 
9. Norfolk, Virginia 
10. Pensacola, Florida 
11. Portsmouth, New Hampshire 
12. St. Albans, New York 
13. Seattle, V/ashington 
Source: annual Sanitary Reports 
Cumulative Histories for each 
hospital APPENDIX F 
Organizational Charts, Special Hospitals 
1. Arrowhead Springs, California 
2. Asbury Park, New Jersey 
3. Asheville, North Carolina 
lu Sun Valley, Idaho 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports and Cumulative 
Histories for each hospital APPENDIX G 
Organizational Charts, Districts and Groups 
1. Bureau of Medicine and Surgery 
2. General Organizational Charts (U), 
District Medical Officer, 
First Naval District 
3. Group Commands 
a. NOB, Newport, Rhode Island 
b. U* S. Naval Training and 
Distribution Center, 
Shoemaker, California 
Source: Manual of Organization Charts, Navy Dcp*t., 
Report of District Medical Officer, 
First Naval District, 19U5>. APPENDIX H 
Organizational Charts—Medical Service 
and Surgical Service 
1. Medical Department Organization—Long Beach and San Diego 
2. Surgical Department Organization—Long Beach 
Source: Long Beach and San Diego Annual Sanitary Reports APPENDIX I 
Organizational Charts—Rehabilitation 
1. Bulled Charts 
a. Rehabilitation Service and Status in Hospital Organization 
b. Organization of the Rehabilitation Program 
c. Rehabilitation Program as it applies to the 
usual patient 
d. Flow Chart for Processing Discharge 
2. Rehabilitation Charts 
a. Chelsea, Massachusetts 
b. St. Albans, New York 
c. Seattle, Washington 
3. Diagram of Method Used in Scheduling Patients for 
Rehabilitation Services, Seattle, "Washington 
Source: Bulled Charts, Sanitary Reports for Individual Hospitals Named APPENDIX J 
Organizational Charts—Dependents 
U. S. Naval Hospital, San Diego, California 
Source: Sanitary Report, U. S. Naval Hospital, 
San Diego, California APPENDIX K 
Hospital Plot Plan 
1. Astoria, Oregon 
2. Chelsea, Massachusetts 
3. Corona, California 
k» Farragut, Idaho 
5. Long Beach, California 
6. Memphis, Tennessee 
7. Newport, Rhode Island 
8. Portsmouth, New- Hampshire 
9. San Diego, California 
10. Santa Margarita Ranch, Oceanside, California 
11. Shoemaker, California 
12. U. S. N. Receiving Hospital, 
San Francisco, California 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports for each hospital APPENDIX L 
Floor Plan—"H" and "P'-iype Buildings 
Source: Navy Department, Bureau of Yards and Docks APPENDIX M 
1. U. S. Naval Hospitals — commissioned, 
established, approved by Federal Board, 
de commis sioned 
2. U. S. Naval Special Hospitals (Convalescent)— 
commissioned, established, approved by Federal 
Board, decommissioned 
3. Annex Units to General Hospital Serving as 
Special Hospital Type Facilities 
Source: Annual Sanitary Reports, Cumulative Histories, 
General Correspondence Files APPENDIX M 
CONVALESCENT HOSPITALS 
H0SPIT.1L 
FEDEPuJj DQivPD 
. *.APPROVAL 
DESIGNATED A 
ESTABLISHED 
ACQMMIS- 
SIONED 
DECOMMIS- 
SIONED 
Arrowhead Springs, Calif, 
(San Bernardino) 
• 
23 May 191+1+ 
15 Apr 191*6 
Asbury Park, N. J. 
29 Jan.1915 
31 Mar, 191+5 
10 Apr. 191*5 
1 Apr. 191+6 
Asheville, N. C. 
26 Mar, 19U3 
21+ May 19 1+3 
10 Apr. 191+6 
Panning, Calif. 
29 May 191+1+ 
15 June 19JUU 
2 Oct, 191+1+ 
31 Dec. 191+5 
Beaumont, Calif. 
29 May 19 III; 
15 June 191+1+ 
2 0ct.l9l+l+ 
15 Oet. 191*5 
Camp 7/allace, Tex. 
(Galveston) 
5 Sept.191*5 
5 Sept. 19h5 
Camp V/hito, Oregon 
(Medford) 
2 June 191+1+ 
8 Aug.19U5 
31 Aug, 191+5 
Glenwood Springs, Colo. 
6 Mar, 19 k3 
5 July 191+2 
1 Apr. 191+6 
Harriman,. N. Y. 
5 Sept, 19^5 
16 Nov. 191+2 
1 Nov. 191+5 
Palm Peach, Fla. 
23 Feb. 191+5 
10 May 191+5 
21 May 191+5 
20 Feb. 191+6 
Santa Cruz, Calif. 
8 Mar. 191+3 
1 Apr. 191+6 
Sea' ’Gate, N. Y. 
(Brooklyn) 
ll+ Apr, 191+1+ 
16 July 191+1+ 
30 Aug. 191*1* 
Springficld, Mass. 
26 June 1914; 
8 Scpt,19l+1+ 
8 Sept. I9I+I+ 
1 Mar. 191+6 
Sun Valley, Idaho 
1 Juno 191+3 
1 July 191*5 
1 Dec. 191+5 
YoSemite National Park, 
Calif. 
3 Hay 19U5 
17 May 191+3 
25 June 191+3 
15 Dec. 191+5 
ANNEX UNITS TO GENERAL HOSPITALS 
SERVING AS SPECIAL HOSPITAL TYPE FACILITIES 
1. Balboa Annex (San Diego) 
2. Benmoreel Annex (Norfolk NOB) 
3. Callaghan Annex (Sampson) 
[i. Camp Bennion .Annex (Farragut) 
5* Lawrence Annex (Great Lakes) 
6. McIntyre Annex (Great Lakes) 
7. Napa i.nnex (Mare Island) 
8. Rancho Santa Fe (San Diego) 
Source: Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX M (Conttcl.) 
HOSPITAL 
FEDERAL BOARD 
APPROVAL 
DESIGNATED & 
ESTABLISHED 
COMMISSIONED 
Annapolis, Md. 
1016 
Astoria, Oregon 
11 June 19l3 
(19 June) 
7 Oct .191*3 
17 Oct.1911 
Bainbridge, Md. 
27 Sept.l9l*2 
1* Feb. 19li2 
Beaufort, S. C. 
Bethesda, Md. 
(Washington, D. C.) 
Bremerton, Wash. 
(Puget Sound) 
22 Kay 1915 
(To replace pa 
umcdassu- 
woR'A1on 
0ECLASS>f'CftT,0N 
rris Island) 
0 
■<l=0 
BOARD 
5 Feb,1912 
26 Jan.1903 
1 Jan.1912 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
1011, 1030 
Camp Lejcune 
(New River, N. C.) 
20 Jan.l9l2 
1 Nov.19144 designation changed to Ca 
1 May 1913 
mp LeJeuneJ 
Charleston, S. C. 
• 
13 July 1917 
13 Apr. 1912 
Chelsea, Mass. 
7 Jan.1836 
Corona, Calif. 
16 Dec.l9ll 
16 Dcc_19ll 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
1 July 19ll 
1 July 19ll 
Corvallis, Oregon 
17 Nov. I9i4.l1. 
27 Dec.1911 
3 Feb. 1915 
Dublin, Ga. 
Ik May 1913 
22 Jan.1915 
Farragut, Idaho 
27 Sopt .191*3 
15 Jen.19U5 
Fort Eustis, Va. 
27 July 191*1* 
29 Aug.1911 
Decommissioned 
13 Sopt.19U 
1 Fob. 191*6 
Great Lakes, 111. 
12 Oct.1911 
Houston, Tex. 
15 Mar. ±9hb 
ll July 1915 
1 Mar. 1916 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
1 July 19 ll 
1 July 19 ll 
Key West, Fla. 
19 Oct.1912 
Long Beach, Calif. 
15 Dec.l9l2 
Mare Island, Calif. 
6 / 
Jan.1061 
Apr. . 1900 APPENDIX M (Cont»d.) 
HOSPITAL 
FEDERAL BOARD 
APPROVAL 
DESIGNATED & 
established 
COMMISSIONED 
Memphis, Term. 
11 Jan-19^3 
17 Mar. 19 U3 
Now Orleans, La. 
1 June. 19U3 
Newport, R. I. 
6 Feb, 19U3 
Norfolk, (NOB) Vd. • 
20 Jan. 191*2 
2 Nov, 19U2 
Norman, Okla. 
26 .a^.191+2 
27 Oct. 19)+2 
15 Nov. 19U2 
Oakland, Calif. 
27 Oct. 19l|2 
3 Sept. 191+3 
Parris Island, S. C. 
1919 
Pensacola, Fla. 
1. June 1875 
Philadelphia, pa. 
July 1868 
12 Apr. 1938 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
21 Dec. 1091 
16 Dec.1913 
Portsmouth, Va. 
16 Dec.1913 
1830 
Quantico, Va. 
1 July 19U. 
1 July 19U1 
Sampson, N. Y. 
29 Sept. 19^2 
27 Feb. 191+3 
San Diego, Calif. 
22 Aug. 1922 
San Francisco Receiving 
Hospital 
l (Mobile 113 on 
9 Dec.l9l;l|) 
Decommissioned 
8 Jan.lpUt 
15 Dec. 19U5 
San Francisco, Calif. 
(Treasure Island) 
30 Dec.l9Ul 
20 Jan.l9l*2 
1+ Apr. 191+2 
San Leandro, Calif. 
20 Jan.l9l4i 
7 Sept.1943 
IS Au3.19U 
Santa Margarita Ranch, 
(Oceanside) 
Calif. 
18 Nov. 1942 
3 Sopt.l9U3 
Seattle, Wash. 
20 Jan.l9i|2 
22 Aug.191+2 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
21 May 19U3 
5 May 19U3 
1 Oct-19ii3 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
2h Nov. 194.2 
15 Feb. 191+3 
Source: Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX N 
1. Continental Naval Hospitals—V-J Day. 
2. Regular Hospitals Ranked According to Bed Capacity 
at the Close of the Aar (13 19h$) 
3. Special Hospitals Ranked according to Bed Capacity 
at the Close of the Aar (13 Aug. 1945) 
iu Regular Hospitals Ranked According to Beds Occupied 
at the Close of the Aar (13 Aug. 19U5) 
5. Special Hospitals Ranked According to Beds Occupied 
at the Close of the .far (13 Aug. 19U5) 
Source: Files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX,N 
CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS — V-J Day 
REGULAR HOSPITALS 
Beds 
Authorized 
Rank 
ACTUAL PATIENT LOAD 
Patients 
AT END OF WAR 
Rank 
Annapolis, Lid. 
275 
41 
284 
42 
Astoria, Oregon 
khl 
37 
hlh 
40 
Bainbridge, Md. 
1,203 
19 
1,979 
16 
Be the s da, Ml. 
1,509 
13 
2,1*26 
13 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
722 
30 
1,125 
29 
Charleston, S. C. 
675 
32 
697 
36 
Chelsea, Mass. 
1,523 
12 
2,701 
9 
Corona, Calif. 
3,ol*5 
4 
3,611 
5 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
713 
31 
1,115 
30 
Corvallis, Oregon 
1,900 
9 
1,587 
21 
Dublin, Ga. 
500 
36 
787 
34 • 
Barragut, Idaho 
3,977 
3 
2,1*89 
12 
Port Eustis, Va. 
1,200 
21 
1,339 
24 
Great Lakes, 111. 
1*,507 
2 
7,532 
2 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
987 
25 
1,825 
17 
Key 'Jest, Fla. 
295 
ho 
506 
38 
Long Beach, Calif. 
1,287 
18 
2,609 
10 
Mare Island, Calif. 
1,1*13 
15 
2,281 
14 
Memphis, Tcnn. 
845 
27 
1,321 
25 
New Orleans, La. 
600 
3h 
1,212 
28 
Newport, R. I. 
1,000 
2h 
1,305 
26 
New. River, N. C. 
1,007 
23 
1,730 
19 
Norfolk, Va. 
1,136 
22 
1,652 
20 
Norman, Okla. 
819 
29 
1,811 
18 
Oakland, Calif. 
2,371* 
6 
5,l*oo 
3 
Pa In Beach, Fla. 
1,400 
16 
727 
35 
Parris Island, S. C. 
31*9 
39 
65l 
37 
Pensacola, Fla. 
836 
28 
1,073 
31 
Philadelphia, pa. 
1,650 
11 
3,316 
6 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
351* 
38 
390 
41 
Portsmouth, Va. 
1,850 
10 
3,103 
7 
Puget Sound, Nash. 
662 
33 
871 
33 
Quantico, Va. 
Rec. Hospital 
270 
h2 
l*5i 
39 
San Francisco, Calif. 
2,000 
8 
927 
32 • 
Sampson, N. Y. 
1,1*18 
lh 
2,119 
15 
San Diego, Calif. 
10,1*99 
1 
8,069 
1 
San Leandro, Calif. 
Santa Margarita, 
850 
26 
1,373 
23 
Oceanside, Calif. 
1,200 
20 
1,534 
22 
Seattle, Wash. 
1,389 
17 
2,554 
11 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
2,398 
5 
3,031 
8 
St . Albans, N. Y. 
2,359 
7 
4,642 
4 
Treasure Island, Calif. 
TOTALS 
572 
64, 009 
35 
1,276 
85,845 
27 
Cmi*v» a/-\ • Q + n -k-i Q*f**i r*o"l tn c:n APPENDIX N (Corit fd.) 
REGULAR HOSPITALS RANKED ACCORDING TO BED CAPACITY 
AT THE CLOSE OF THE WAR (13 Aug. 191*5 )* 
1. San Diego, Calif. 10,1*99 
2. Great Lakes, 111. 1*,507 
3. Farragut, Idaho 3,977 
1*. Corona, Calif. 3,Ol*5 
5. Shoemaker, Calif. 2,398 
6. Oakland, Calif. 2,37U 
7. St. Albans, N. Y. 2,359 
8. Corvallis, Oregon 1,900 
9. Portsmouth, Va, 1,850 
10. Philadelphia, pa. 1,650 
11. Chelsea, Mass. 1,523 
12. Bethesda, Md. 1,509 
13. Sampson, N. Y. 1,1*18 
11*. Mare Island, Calif. 1,1*13 
15. Palm Beach, Fla. 1,1*00 
16. Seattle, Wash. 1,389 
17. Long Beach, Calif. 1,287 
18. Bainbridge, Md. 1,203 
19. Fort Eustis, Va. 1,200 
20- Santa Margarita, 
Oceanside, Calif. 1,200 
21. Nbrfolk, Va. (NOB)';)... . 1,136 
22. New River, N. C. 1,007 
23. Newport, R. I. 1,000 
2l*. Jacksonville, Fla. 987 
25. San Leandro, Calif. 850 
26. Memphis, Tenn. 61*5 
27. Pensacola, Fla. 836 
28. Norman, Okla. 819 
29. Brooklyn, N. Y. 722 
30. Corpus Christi, Tex. 713 
31. Charleston, S. C. 675 
32. Puget Sound, Wash. 662 
33. New Orleans, La. 600 
34. Treasure Island, Calif. 572 
35. Dublin, Ga. 500 
36. Astoria, Oregon 1*1*1 
37. Portsmouth, N. H. 351* 
38. Parris Island, S. C. 31*9 
39. Key West, Fla. 295 
1*0. Annapolis, Md. 275 
Ul. Quantico, Va. 270 
Receiving Hospital, San Franciscp, Calif. 2,000 
SPECIAL HOSPITALS RANKED ACCORDING TO BED CAPACITY 
AT THE aOSE OF THE PAR (13 Aug. 191*5) 
1. Asbury park, N. J. 1,500 
2. Sun Valley, Idaho 1,035 
3. Banning, Calif. 1,000 
1*. Beaumont, Calif. 936 
5. Santa Cruz, Calif. 886 
6. Yoscmite, Calif. 61*2 
7. Glenwood Springs, Colo. 51*0 
8. Sea Gate, N. Y. l*6l 
9. Springfield, Llass. 1*5 0 
10. Arrowhead Springs, Calif. 1*5 0 
11. Asheville, N. C. l*0l* 
12. Harriman, N. Y. 80 
-x Bod capacity is itated on "basis of 8 foot centers. APPENDIX N (Cont'd.) 
REGULAR HOSPITALS RANKED ACCORDING TO BEDS OCCUPIED 
AT THE CLOSE OF THE WAR (l3 Rug, 191*5) 
1. San Diego, Calif. 8,069 
2. Great Lakes, 111. 7,532 
3. Oakland, Calif. 5,1*00 
1*. St. Albans, N. Y. 1*,61*2 
5. Corona, Calif. 3*611 
6. Philadelphia, Pa. 3,316 
7. Portsmouth, Va. 3,103 
8. Shoemaker, Calif. 3,031 
9. Chelsea, Mass. 2,701 
10. Long Beach, Calif. 2,609 
11. Seattle* Wash. 2,551* 
12. Farragut, Idaho 2,1*89 
13. Bethesda, Md. 2,1*26 
14. Mare Island, Calif. 2,281 
15. Sampson, N. Y. 2,119 
16. Bairibridge, Lid. 1,979 
17. Jacksonville, Fla. 1,825 
18. Norman, Okla. 1,811 
19. Now River, N. C. 1,730 
20. Norfolk, Va. (NOB) .. 1,652 
21. Corvallis, Oregon 1,587 
22. Santa Margarita, Oceanside, 
Calif. 1,531* 
23. San Leandro, Calif. 1,373 
2k• Fort Eustis, Va. 1,339 
25. Memphis, Tenn. - 1,321 
26. Newport, R. I. 1,305 
27. Treasure Island, Calif. 1,276 
28. New Orleans, La. 1,212 
29. Brooklyn, N. Y. 1,125 
30. Corpus Christi, Tex. 1,115 
31. Pensacola, Fla. 1,073 
32. pec. Hospital, San 
Francisco, Calif. 927 
33* Puget Sound, Wash. 871 
3k• Dublin, Ga. 878 
35. Palm Beach, Fla. 727 
36. Parris Island, S. C. 65l 
37. Key West, Fla. 506 
38. Quantico, Va. 1*51 
39. Astoria, Oregon 1*11* 
kO. Portsmouth, N. H. 390 
1*1. Annapolis, Md. 281* 
1*2. Charleston, S. C. 79 
SPECIAL HOSPITALS RANKED ACCORDING TO BSPS OCCUPIED 
AT THE"CLOSE OF THE BAA (13 Rug. 191*5) 
1. Sun Valley, Idaho 978 
2. Santa Cruz, Calif. 891 
3. Banning, Calif. 831 
1*. YoSemite, Calif. 709 
5. Arrowhead Springs, Calif. 692 
6. Sea Gate, N. Y. 685 
7. Asbury Park, N. J. 55l 
8. Glenwood Springs, Colo. 528 
9* Springfield, Mass. U2i; 
10. Asheville, N. C. 36? 
11. Beaumont, Calif. 21*0 
12. Harriman, N. Y. 6Ij. APPENDIX 0 
Continental Naval Hospitals—V-J Day—Special 
Arranged Alphabetically 
Source: Files of Medical Statistical firvision APPENDIX P 
"Jest Coast Hospitals—1 January 19k5 
Source: Compiled from Appendix Q APPENDIX P 
17SST CCASTvHOSPlIALS - 1 JANUARY 19k$ 
Authorized 
Capacity 
Officers- • 
Patients 
Enlisted 
'.NurSes _ 
. TOTAL A.I 
Astoria 
822 
21 
U17 
6 
888 
Corona 
3?3h 
169 
297U 
20 
3163 
Farragut 
3,977 
32 
1615 
28 
1,675 
Long Loach 
1159 
312 
1792 
19 u 
2198 
Hare Island 
y.i3 
133 
185a 
75 
1,662 
Oakland 
2J7h 
808 
k)s3 
157 
U921* 
Shoemaker 
2398 
78 
2683 
168 
25 
Puget Sound 
662 
86 
663 
82 
751 
San Diego 
10882 
673 
11069 
326 
12p68 
Santa Margarita Ranch 
1200 
7 
62 
1.211 
28 
1297 
Seattle 
y89 
151 
1,805 
78 
231U 
San Francisco 
572 
87 
838 
6 
927 
San Leandro 
85 0 
91 
1001 
9 
1101 
27,832 
2159 
7 
31961 
1129 
3S2U9 
Source: Compiled from Appendix Q APPENDIX 0 
CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS — V-J DAY 
SPECIAL HOSPITALS 
Beds 
Authorized 
Rank 
ACTUAL PATIENT LOAD AT 
Patients 
END OF VAR 
Rank 
Arrowhead Springs, Calif. 
k$o 
11 
692 
5 
Asbury Park, N. J. 
1,500 
1 
551 
7 
Asheville, TJ. C. 
boh 
10 
367 
10 
Banning, Calif. 
1,000 
3 
831 
3 
Feaumont, Calif. 
936 
k 
2k0 
11 
Cf.anvrood Springs, Colo. 
51+ 0 
7 
$26 
8 
P.-?rriman, N. Y. 
80 
12 
6b 
12 
Santa Cruz, Calif. 
886 
5 
891 
2 
Sea Gate, N. Y. 
U61 
8 
685 
6 
Springfield, Mass. 
l+5o 
9 
b2b 
9 
Sun Valley, Idaho 
1,035 
2 
978 
1 
i'csemite, Calif. 
6b2 
6 
709 
b 
TOTALS 
8,381; 
6,958 
Source: Files, Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q 
1. Chart—Average Patient Census—All Naval Hospitals, 
January - November 19U5 
2. SUILIARY OF AUTHORIZED CECITY .HID PATIENT LOAD 
IN CONTINENTAL HOSPITALS — 19U1-19U5 
Source: Files, medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q 
SUIjMAKT OF AUTHORIZED CAPACITY AND PATIENT LOAD 
IN CONTINENTAL HOSPITALS—I^l-T^U 
DATE 
Authorized Capacity 
General Special Total 
Hospitals Hospitals 
patient Load 
General Special Total 
Hospital Hospital 
Vacant Beds minus or 
Excess of Patients 
Over Authorized Capa- 
city. 
7 
Dec. 
191*1 
8,1*37 
8,1*37 
7,55s| 
7,550 
079 
- 
3. 
Jan. 
191*2 
8,1*37 
8,1*37 
7,851* 
7,851* 
563 
- 
i 
July 
191*2 
3,787 
8,787 
12,210 
12,210 
3,1*23 
4 
r. 
Jan. 
191*3 
22,090 
22,090 
22,792 
22,792 
98 
- 
1- 
July 
191*3 
31*, 327 
3,51*8 
37,375 
3lt,606 
1,195 
35,301 
1,991* 
- 
-i 
Jan. 
191*1* 
1*2,919 
3,1*15 
1*6,331* 
1*9,508 
2,739 
52,21*7 
5,913 
4 
1 
July 
■191*1* 
I4I4., 489 
It, 161 
i;8, 65 0 
53.188 
3,U60 
56,61*0 
7,998 
4 
1 
Jan. 
191*5 
52,800 
6,961 
59,81*9 
72,199 
6,233 
78,1*37 
10,588 
4 
1 
July 
191*5 
62,609 
9,781* 
72,393 
014,221 
6,267 
90,500 
18,195 
4 
13 Aug. 
191*5 
... Jl 
61*, 009 
8,3GU 
! 
72,393 
86,331 
6,960 
92,293 
19,900 
i 
4 APPENDIX Q (Cont*d,) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATE 
CALENDAR YEAR 19ifL 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 7 December 
Beds 
Authorized 
- - - Beds 
Occupied 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
Annapolis, lid. 
192 
3 
70 
10 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
980 
37 
1+03 
11*9 
Charleston, S. C. 
117 
6 
96 
22 
Chelsea, Mass. 
335 
29 
369 
97 
Corpus Chris ti, Tex. 
1*20 
b3 
191 
12 
Great Lakes, 111. 
901 
19 
321 
lli 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
Uoo 
38 
167 
b 
Mare Island, Calif. 
9GU 
• 90 
537 
09 
Newport, R. I. 
1*69 
111 
170 
61 
Norfolk, Va. 
1,298 
36 
1,071* 
89 
Parris Island, S. C. 
209 
3 
208. 
8 
Pensacola, Fla. 
306 
bo 
179 
12 
Philadelphia, Pa. 
663 
22 
16U 
61*3 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
190 
9 
81 
3b 
Paget Sound, Wash. 
308 
22 
22b 
93 
Quantico, Va. 
131 
13 
103 
2 
San Diego, Calif. 
1,1*21* 
83 
1,162 
119 
Washington, D. C. 
231* 
66 
117 
27 
Totals 
0,1*37 
529 
5,538 
l,bb± 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Conttd.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL ;NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATE 
CALENDAR YEAR 19^2 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 
January 
Beds 
Authorized 
_ — — _ - 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
Annapolis, Md. 
192 
6 
h3 
6 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
580 
13 
1+15 
95 
Charleston, S. C. 
117 
5 
85 
15 
Chelsea, Mass. 
335 
35 
337 
76 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
1|20 
38 
111 
11 
Great Lakes, 111. 
5oi 
17 
503 
13 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
hoo 
k9 
133 
22 
Mare Island, Calif. 
58U 
59 
751 
37 
Newport, R. I. 
U65 
lh 
396 
5U 
Norfolk, Va. 
1,290 
35 
1,102 
86 
Parris Island, S. C. 
209 
0 
2U3 
6 
Pensacola, Fla. 
386 
37 
160 
31 
Philadelphia, pa. 
663 
28 
135 
631 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
190 
7 
100 
30 
Puget Sound, Hash. 
308 
16 
226 
75 
Quantico, Va. 
131 
10 
. 7U 
5 
San Diego, Calif. 
1,1*21* 
77 
1,005 
83 
Hashington, D. C. 
231+ 
58 
137 
33 
Totals 
8,1*37 
5oi+ 
6,0)4. 
1,309 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont'd.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATE 
CALENDAR YEAR 19 h2 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 
July 
Beds 
Authorized 
- - - Beds 
Occupied 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
Annapolis, Lid. 
192 
9 
50 
b 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
580 
65 
578 
121 
Charleston, S. C. 
117 
11 
171 
39 
Chelsea, Mass. 
335 
56 
l+5i 
80 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
b20 
bh 
223 
53 
Great Lakes, 111. 
5oi 
17 
1,201 
9 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
boo 
56 
230 
20 
Mare Island, Calif. 
50U 
97 
1*199 
b9 
Newport, R. I. 
1*65 
26 
Ul8 
76 
Norfolk, Va. 
X, 290 
63 
l,5bb 
83 
Parris Island, S. C. 
209 
1 
298 
8 
Pensacola, Fla. 
386 
50 
25h 
21 
Philadelphia, Pa. 
663 
3b 
31+3 
531 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
190 
b 
68 
22 
Puget Sound, Hash. 
308 
22 
29h 
57 
Quantico, Va. 
131 
lb 
11*7 
8 
San Diego, Calif. 
l,U2l* 
137 
2,232 
67 
Washington, D. C. 
_ 23U_ 
.. I9 
220 
- .**9. 
Corona, Calif. 
■350 
20 
• 112 
12 
Totals 
8,787 
815 
10,083 
1*312 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont'd.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATE 
CALENDAR YEAR 191*3 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 
January 
Annapolis, Ilcl. 
Beds 
Authorized ■ 
275 
Officer 
13 
- - - Beds 
Enlisted 
109 
Occupied 
Supers 
5 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
1,200 
132 
1,392 
1U6 
Bethesda, Md. 
700 
190 
U57 
hi 
Charleston, S. C. 
600 
17 
291 
98 
Chelsea, Hass. 
1,000 
120 
581 
106 
Corona, Calif. 
1,000 
. 15 
233 
9 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
600 
62 
352 
27 
Great Lakes, 111. 
2,500 
17 
1,72U 
k 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
600 
57 
627 
k2 
Key West, Fla. 
l5o 
12 
196 
11 
Long Beach, Calif. 
300 
13 
169 
30 
Mare Island, Calif. 
1,000 
132 
1,673 
b9 
Newport, R. I. 
1,000 
b9 
673 
7k 
Norfolk, Va. (NOB) 
750 
90 
1,050 
7 
Norman, Okla. 
6i5 
3 
193 
1 
Oakland, Calif. 
Ooo 
1U6 
1,228 
11 
Parris Island, 5. C. 
boo 
9 
Ul2 
7 
Pensacola, Fla. 
5oo 
88 
368 
35 
Philadelphia, pa. 
1,000 
61 
553 
532 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (ConttcA) , 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATE 
CALENDAR YIAR 19k3 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 January 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
Beds 
Authorized 
-,350 
Officer 
6 
Enlisted Supers 
. 97 32 
Portsmouth, Va. 
2,500 
11.6 
2,223 
110 
Puget Sound, Nash. 
550 
h2 
14*2 
U9 
Quantico, Va. 
200 
b3 
150 
3 
San Diego, Calif. 
3,000 
232 
3,1*15 
82 
Seattle, Nash. 
300 
5U 
370 
15 
Treasure Island, 
500 
25 
528 
.8 
San Francisco, Calif. 
Totals 
22,890 
1,714* 
19,511* 
1,531* 
Source: From the files of Lleclical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont»d.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19U3 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 July 
Beds 
Authorized 
Officer 
Enlisted Supers 
Annapolis, Md. 
289 
18 
llii 22 
Brooklyn, N. Y# 
758 
132 
71*1 11*3 
Bethesda, lid. 
1,000 
107 
706 • i|3 
Charleston, S. C. 
636 
66 
283 U6 
Chelsea, Pass. 
1,063 
152 
651 99 
Corona, Calif. 
1,190 
70 
1,077 2 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
700 
Oil 
553 75 
Great Lakes, 111. 
2,036 
80 
2,361* 11* 
Jacksonville, Fla, 
931 
81 
553 10 
Key 'Jest, Fla. 
301 
25 
271 57 
Long Beach, Calif. 
309 
01 
682 57 
Mare Island, Calif. 
1,101 
72 
905 1*3 
Newport, R. I. 
1,000 
bh 
697 62 
Norfolk, Va, (NOB) 
1,073 
111 
1,020 61 
Norman, Okla. 
615 
29 
336 16 
Oakland, Calif. 
1,765 
251* 
2,300 7 
Parris Island, S. C. 
319 
7 
303 17 
Pensacola, Fla. 
62k 
121 
365 50 
Philadelphia, pa. 
1,31|5 
105 
680 539 
Source: From, the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont*d.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19h3 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 July 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
Beds 
Authorized • 
356 
Officer 
12 
Enlisted 
156 
Occupied 
Supers 
20 
Portsmouth, Va. 
1,1+71 
117 
1,1+37 
90 
Puget Sound, Wash. 
662 
20 
10.3 
32 
Quantico, Va. 
31+5 
37 
139 
3 
San Diego, Calif. 
5,816 
1+05 
6,603 
9h 
Seattle, Wash. 
786 
62 
709 
3 
Treasure Island, 
500 
99 
630 
8 
San Francisco, Calif. 
Bainbridge, Md. 
1,000 
k 
932 
7 
Farragut, Idaho 
i,5oo 
15 
1,1*81* 
17 
Memphis, Tenn. 
600 
U5 
339 
0 
New River, N. C. 
927 
k6 
50o 
h 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
1,31+6 
9k 
1,522 
39 
Sampson, N. Y. 
i,h6k 
32 
609 
11 
New Orleans, La. 
1+09 
25 
153 
3 
Special Hospitals 
N. C. 
5oo 
20 
297 
1 
Harriman, N. Y. 
80 
23 
0 
0 
Santa Crus, Calif. 
850 
0 
853 
0 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont'd.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
I ION DU,A AD 
CALENDAR YEAR 19U3 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 July 
Beds 
Authorized ■ 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Occupiec 
Supers 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
356 
12 
156 
20 
Portsmouth, Va. 
1,U71 
117 
1,1*37 
90 
Puget Sound, Wash* 
662 
20 
14.3 
32 
Quantico, Va. 
31*5 
37 
139 
3 
San Diego, Calif. 
5,818 
1*05 
6,603 
91* 
Seattle, Wash. 
786 
62 
709 
3 
Treasure Island, 
500 
99 
630 
0 
San Francisco, Calif. 
Bainbridge, Md. 
1,000 
h 
932 
7 
Farragut, Idaho 
1,500 
15 
17 
Memphis, Tenn. 
600 
U5 
339 
0 
New River, N. C. 
927 
U6 
508 
b 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
1,3U6 
9k 
1,522 
39 
Sampson, N. Y. 
1,U6U 
32 
609 
11 
Nevf Orleans, La. 
U09 
25 
153 
3 
Special Hospitals 
Asheville, N. C. 
500 
20 
297 
1 
Harriman, N. Y. 
80 
23 
0 
0 
Santa Crus, Calif. 
850 
0 
853 
0 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont'cl.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19h3 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 July 
palm Beach, Fla. 
Beds 
Authorized 
20 
Officer 
1 
- - - Beds 
Enlisted 
0 
Occupied 
Supers 
0 
Yosemite Natl, park, Calif. 
o 
o 
C"- 
0 
0 
0 
Sun Valley, Idaho 
1,3?8 
0 
0 
0 
Regular 
3U,327 
2,71*0 
30,235 
1,711 
Special 
hh 
i,i5o 
1 
Totals 
37,275 
2,781* 
31,305 
1,712 APPENDIX Q (Cont»d.) 
BOaRD 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED ELITES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19UU 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 
January 
Annapolis, Lid. 
Beds 
Authorized 
275 
Officer 
20 
- - - Beds 
Enlisted 
116 
Occupied 
Supers 
12 
Baihbridge, Md. 
999 
10 
1,131* 
7 
Bothesda, Md. 
1,009 
373 
1,225 
67 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
8U3 
177 
71*7 
123 
Charleston, S. C. 
600 
50 
hoi 
155 
Chelsea, Mass. 
1,000 
13U 
1,01*1* 
163 
Corona, Calif. 
2,261 
67 
1,105 
16 
Corpus Chris ti, Tex. 
600 
96 
521* 
68 
Farragut, Idaho 
1,1+75 
66 
1,828 
12 
Great Lakes, 111. 
2,07 6 
161 
3,686 
6 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
932 
111; 
657 
o 
0 
Key Most, Fla. 
301 
21 
289 
32 
Long Beach, Calif. 
1,159 
107 
1,092 
11*9 
Marc Island, Calif. 
1,551* 
87 
1,251 
33 
Memphis, Tenn. 
603 
67 
660 
1 
New Orleans, La. 
1*09 
76 
797 
18 
Newport, R. I. 
1,21*6 
58 
912 
60 
New River, N. C. 
991* 
b9 
931 
kb 
Norfolk, Va. (NOB) 
1,000 
138 
1,121* 
72 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont ) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19hh 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 
January 
Beds 
Authorized 
Offi'cer 
- - - Beds 
Enlisted 
Occupied 
Supers 
Norman, Okla. 
615 
79 
692 
2k 
Oakland, Calif• 
2,371+ 
333 
2,021+ 
111 
Parris Island, S. C. 
3l+9 
8 
lfL7 
22 
Pensacola, Fla. 
760 
133 
1+77 
k7 
Philadelphia, Pa. 
1,316 
103: 
973 
506 
Shoemaker, Calif, 
1,009 
ho 
ro 
91+5 
3 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
319 
21 
198 
35 
Portsmouth, Va. 
1,1+92 
208 
2,1+89 
166 
Puget Sound, Hash. 
662 
la 
607 
37 
Quantico, Va. 
31+5 
29 
211 
3 
St, Albans, N. Y. 
2,211 
309 
3,790 
63 
Sampson, N, Y. 
1,1+55 
33 
1,306 
1U 
San Diego, Calif. 
7,1+33 
361 
6,573 
281 
Santa Margarita Ranch, 
Oceanside, Calif. 
1,232 
27 
335 
2 
Seattle, Hash. 
1,389 
122 
1,233 
13 
Treasure Island, Calif. 
572 
23 
1,026 
3 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont*d.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19 UU 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 January 
Special Hospitals 
Beds 
Authorized 
Officer 
* Beds Occupied 
Enlisted Supers 
Asheville, N. C. 
UOU 
10 
21b 
0 
Glenwood Springs, Colo. 
512 
32 
307 
0 
Harriman, N. Y. 
80 
33 
0 
1 
Santa Cruz, Calif. 
877 
0 
862 
0 
Sun Valley, Idaho 
900 
31 
807 
2 
YoSemite Nat'l. Park, Calif. 
6k2 
3 
1*37 
0 
Arrowhead Springs, Calif. 
0 
0 
0 
0 
Regular 
1*2,919 
3,720 
k3yUoU 
2,376 
Special 
3,1*1$ 
109 
2,627 
3 
Totals 
1+6,331* 
3,037 
1*6,031 
2,379 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont'd.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19UU 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 July 
' 
Beds 
Authorized • 
Occupied 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
Annapolis, Md. 
275 
17 
70 
25 
Eairibridge, Md. 
1,207 
7 
1,021 
11 
Bethesda, Md. 
1,009 
393 
1,338 
8U 
Brooklyn, N. I. 
821 
9h 
762 
109 
Charleston, S. C. 
635 
29 
383 
68 
Chelsea, Mass. 
1,000 
165 
1,190 
10U 
Corona, Calif. 
1,981* 
111 
2,613 
12 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
65o 
82 
U62 
11+7 
Farragut, Idaho 
1,1*77 
51 
1,31*1* 
2 k 
Great Lakes, 111. 
1,867 
109 
2,363 
8 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
927 
118 
803 
lb 
Key v/est, Fla. 
295 
35 
266 
hh 
Long Beach, Calif. 
1,159 
125 
1,352 
262 
Mare Island, Calif. 
1,113 
ioU 
1,19U 
77 
Memphis, Tenn. 
738 
29 
827 
1 
New Orleans, La. 
1*09 
39 
6U8 
7 
Nev/port, R. I. 
1,000 
63 
790 
Sh 
New River, N. C. 
991* 
62 
1,031 
80 
Norfolk, Va. (NOB) 
1,000 
99 
i,n*i 
U9 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Conttd.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAV.X HOSPITAL - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19 4U 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 July 
Beds 
Authorized ■ 
Occupied 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
Norman, Okla. 
705 
3h 
609 
32 
Oakland, Calif. 
2,37 k 
2 33 
3,757 
142 
Parris Island, S. C-. 
3h9 
8 
390 
9 
Pensacola, Fla. 
022 
75 
390 
62 
Philadelphia, Pa. 
1,650 
125 
1,312 
555 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
2,393 
30 
2,31)2 
109 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
319 
10 
217 
67 
Portsmouth, Va• 
i,8?o 
181+ 
2,223 
172 
Puget Sound, Hash. 
662 
29 
611 
39 
Quantico, Va. 
3U5 
35 
2U0 
6 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
2,359 
210 
2,926 
133 
Sampson, N. Y. 
1,1)52 
20 
91)5 
12 
San Diego, Calif. 
7,U83 
1+06 
7,311 
317 
Santa Margarita Ranch, 
Oceanside, Calif. 
1,200 
36 
1,1)50 
8 
Seattle, Hash. 
1,389 
13U 
2,133 
21+ 
# 
Treasure Island, Calif. 
572 
61+ 
l)5o 
U 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Conttd.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR ±9kh 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 July 
Beds 
Authorized 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Occupied 
Supers 
Special Hospitals 
Asheville, N. C. 
Uol* 
20 
359 
7 
Genwood Springs, Colo. 
5ko 
10 
51*9 
2 
Harrinan, N. Y. 
80 
63 
0 
0 
Santa Cruz, Calif. 
936 
0 
832 
0 
Sun Valley, Idaho 
i,oS? 
20 
387 
1 
Yosemite Nat*1. park, Calif. 
61*2 
22 
657 
0 
Arrowhead Springs, Calif. 
500 
0 
519 
12 
Regular 
1*1*, U39 
3,389 
1*6,920 
2,871 
Special 
l*,l6l 
135 
3,303 
22 
Totals 
1*8,650 
3,521* 
50,231 
2,893 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont *d,) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19bS 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 
January 
Beds 
Authorized ■ 
- - - Beds 
Occupied 
- 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
Annapolis, McU 
275 
23 
105 
22 
Oreg. 
U22 
21 
1*17 
6 
Bainbridge, Mci. 
1,203 
3b 
2,080 
6 
Bethesda, Lid. 
1,50? 
bb3 
1,620 
122 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
?62 
98 
95U 
96 
Charleston, S. C. 
675 
b9 
532 
75 
Chelsea, Mass. 
1,250 
187 
1,730 
110 
Corona, Calif. 
3,23U 
169 
2,97U 
20 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
600 
82 
695 
129 
Farragut, Idaho 
1,977 
32 
1,615 
28 
Great Lakes, 111. 
2,291 
177 
3,560 
18 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
907 
Ibh 
902 
lb 
Key West, Fla. 
253 
30 
365 
3b 
Long Beach, Calif. 
1,159 
212 
1,792 
19k 
Mare Island, Calif. 
1,113 
133 
i,U5U 
75 
Memphis, Tenn. 
705 
33 
1,017 
13 
1 
New Orleans, La. 
609 
95 
923 
39 
Newport, R. I. 
1,000 
65 
9U2 
67 
Camp Lojeune, N. C. 
99k 
uo 
1,202 
50 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Conttd.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 191*5 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 
January 
Beds 
Authorized 
— — — — - 
- - - Beds 
Occupied 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
Norfolk, Va. (NOB) 
1,000 
121 
1,290 
57 
Norman, Okla. 
819 
60 
1,103 
ho 
Oakland, Calif. 
2,37k 
hoh 
it, 363 
157 
Fort Eustis, Va. 
1,000 
76 
1,103 
13 
Parris Island, S. C. 
3i*9 
16 
1*09 
15 
Pensacola, Fla. 
836 
83 
553 
101 
Philadelphia, Pa. 
i,65o 
231* 
1,930 
591+ 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
2,390 
73 
2,603 
16I1 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
353 
1U 
36U 
77 
Portsmouth, Va. 
1,850 
205 
2,713 
105 
Puget Sound, Wash. 
662 
1|6 
663 
l|2 
Quantico, Va. 
270 
U3 
399 
3 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
2,359 
1*53 
1*,152 
130 
Sampson, N. Y. 
1,1*52 
63 
1,1*21* 
22 
San Diego, Calif. 
10,1|82 
673 
11,069 
326 
Santa Margarita Ranch, 
Oceanside, Calif. 
1,200 
62 
1, 211 
2l| 
Seattle, Wash. 
1,389 
i5i 
1,885 
73 
Treasure Island, Calif. 
572 
87 
03U 
6 
• 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont*d.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19U5 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 
January 
Beds 
Authorized 
- - - Beds 
Occupied. 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
San Leandro, Calif. 
050 
91 
1,001 
9 
Dublin, Ga. 
0 
0 
0 
0 
Special Hospitals 
Asheville, N. C. 
koh 
23 
101 
8 
Glenwood Springs, Colo. 
51+0 
10 
521 
u 
Harriman, N. Y. 
80 
51 
0 
0 
Santa Cruz, Calif. 
086 
1 
8U0 ' 
2 
Sun Valley, Idaho 
1,059 
17 
700 
1 
Yosemite Nat *1. Park, Calif. 
6I4.2 
7 
370 
0 
Arrowhead Springs, Calif. 
boo 
17 
652 
26 
Banning, Calif. 
1,000 
0 
921 
0 
Beaumont, Calif. 
1,000 
0 
1+93 
2 
Sea Gate, N. Y. 
5oo 
0 
712 
0 
Springfield, Mass. 
l+5o 
0 
b2h 
17 
Regular 
52,880 
5,035 
6u,083 
3,081 
Special 
6,961 
126 
6,052 
60 
Totals 
59,01+9 
5,161 
70,135 
3,11+1 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont*d.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19hS 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 July 
Beds 
Authorized ■ 
Occupied 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
Annapolis, Lid. 
275 
30 
176 
2b 
Astoria, Oreg. 
1*1*1 
26 
U26 
21 
Bairibridge, Md. 
1,203 
28 
2,082 
11 
Bethosda, Lid. 
1,509 
522 
1,729 
11*7 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
722 
120 
911* 
1U6 
Charleston, S. C. 
675 
U8 
720 
06 
Chelsea, Mass, 
1,523 
252 
2,239 
213 
Corona, Calif. 
3,01*5 
200 
3,277 
7U 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
713 
95 
m 
166 
Farragut, Idaho 
3,977 * 
U6 
2,510 
2b 
Great Lakes, 111. 
U,507 
325 
6,009 
36 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
9 67 
196 
1,368 
3 
Key West, Fla. 
295 
30 
1*25 
30 
Long Beach, Calif. 
1,287 
279 
1,937 
266 
Mare Island, Calif. 
1,1*13 
215 
1,732 
137 
Memphis, Tcnn, 
m 
90 
1,134 
21 
New Orleans, La. 
600 
116 
973 
66 
Newport, R. I. 
1,000 
69 
973 
90 
Camp LeJeune, N. C. 
1,007 
77 
1,631 
56 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Conf d.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 1916 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 1 July 
Beds 
Authorized 
Occupiec 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
Dublin, Ga. 
5oo 
29 
766 
31 
Corvallis, Oregon 
1,900 
20 
1,351* 
2b 
Rec. Hospital, 
San Francisco, Calif. 
2,000 
108 
1,398 
1 
Special Hospitals 
• 
Asheville, N. C. 
hoh 
16 
351* 
5 
Glerwood Springs, Colo. 
Sl*o 
5 
325 
7 
Harriman, N. Y. 
80 
59 
0 
0 
Santa Cruz, Calif. 
886 
0 
666 
6 
Sun Valley, Idaho 
1,035 
20 
518 
5 
Yosemite Nat*l. Park, Calif. 
6U2 • 
28 
533 
ll 
Arrowhead Springs, Calif. 
l*5o 
20 
618 
31 
Banning, Calif. 
1,000 
0 
739 
19 
Beaumont, Calif. 
936 
0 
90 
0 
Sea Gate, N. Y. 
U61 
10 
591 
3 
Springfield, Hass. 
l*5o 
0 
328 
33 
Palm Beach, Fla. 
1,U00 
5 
655 
h 
Asbury Park, N. J. 
i,5oo 
0 
557 
6 
Regular 
62,609 
6,077 
71*, 192 
1*,052 
Special 
9,781* 
163 
5,971* 
130 
Totals 
72,393 
6,2U0 
80,166 
1*,182 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Centtel.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVA, HOSPITALS - SELECTED 
CALENDAR YEAR 19 b$ 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 
1 July 
Beds 
Authorized ■ 
- - Bed Occupied 
Officer 
Enlisted Supers 
Norfolk, Va, (NOB) 
1,136 
135 
1,501* 
55 
Norman, Okla., 
019 
05 
1,705 
1*3 
Oakland, Calif. 
2,371* 
5l*i 
1**220 
190 
Fort Eustis, Va, 
1,200 
39 
1,1*1*0 
10 
Parris Island, S. C. 
31*9 
12 
560 
17 
Pensacola, Fla. 
036 
79 
751* 
79 
Philadelphia, pa. 
1,630 
238 
2,1*01 
605 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
2,398 
57 
2,559 
11*1* 
Portsmouth, N, H. 
35b 
25 
277 
75 
Portsmouth, Va. 
1,850 
196 
2,000 
121* 
Puget Sound, Wash. 
662 
69 
702 
66 
Ouantico, Va. 
270 
60 
369 
1* 
St. Albans, N. I. 
2,359 
511 
1*, 037 
139 
Sampson, N. I. 
1,1*18 
113 
2,269 
1*3 
San Diego, Calif. 
10,U99 
51*6 
7,171 
U26 
Santa Margarita Ranch, 
Oceanside, Calif. 
1,200 
1*7 
1,156 
1*6 
Seattle, Wash. 
1,389 
169 
*2,220 
233 
Treasure Island, Calif. 
572 
155 
1,005 
27 
San Leandro, Calif, 
* 050 
55 
l,351i 
21 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont'd.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 1916 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 13 
August 
Beds 
Authorized ■ 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Occupied 
Supers 
Annapolis, Md. 
275 
53 
197 
31+ 
Astoria, Oregon 
1+1+1 
25 
365 
21+ 
Bainbridge, Md. 
1,203 
26 
1,932 
21 
Bethesda, Md. 
1,509 
521* 
1,779 
123 
Brooklyn, N. Y. 
722 
iil+ 
86 7 
11+1+ 
Charleston, S. C. 
675 
51+ 
561+ 
79 
Chelsea, Mass. 
1,523 
277 
2,208 
216 
Corona, Calif. 
3,oU5 
229 
3,297 
85 
Corpus Christi, Tex. 
713 
103 
830 
182 
Corvallis, Oregon 
1,900 
25 
1,517 
1+5 
Dublin, Ga. 
500 
36 
71U 
37 
Farragut, Idaho 
3,977 
52 
2,390 
1+7 
Fort Eustis, Va. 
1,200 
5o 
1,259 
30 
Great Lakes, 111. 
U,S07 
326 
7,156 
50 
Jacksonville, Fla. 
987 
173 
1,519 
133 
Key West, Fla, 
295 
1+1 
1+31 
31+ 
Long Beach, Calif. 
1,287 
267 
2,007 
335 
Mare Island, Calif, 
1,1*13 
190 
1,960 
131 
Memphis, Tenn. 
81+5 
97 
1,208 
16 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont«d.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19h$ 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 13 August 
Beds 
Authorized • 
Occupied 
Officer 
Enlisted 
Supers 
New Orleans, La. 
600 
110 
1,027 
79 
Newport, R. I. 
1,000 
109 
1,110 
90 
New River, N. C. 
1,007 
89 
1,572 
69 
Norfolk, Va. 
1,136 
191 
1,1*28 
73 
Norman, Okla. 
819 
89 
1,675 
91 
Oakland, Calif. 
2,37k 
928 
1*,525 
31*7 
Palm Beach, Fla. 
i,Uoo 
k 
718 
9 
Parris Island, S. C. 
3b9 
11 
628 
12 
Pensacola, Fla. 
836 
81 
872 
120 
Philadelphia, Pa. 
1,650 
290 
2,1*91 
575 
Portsmouth, N. H. 
351* 
29 
291* 
71 
Portsmouth, Va. 
l,89o 
209 
2,753 
lUl 
Puget Sound, u'ash. 
662 
60 
71*6 
69 
Quantico, Va. 
270 
h7 
398 
6 
Rec. Hospital, 
San Francisco, Calif. 
2,000 
99 
892 
16 
Sampson, N. Y. 
1,U18 
119 
1,955 
U9 
San Diego, Calif. 
10,1*99 
563 
7,088 
m 
San Leandro, Calif. 
890 
103 
1,21*7 
23 
Santa Margarita Ranch, 
Oceanside, CaLif. 
1, 200 
106 
1,381* 
bh 
Source: From the files of JJedical Statistical Division APPENDIX Q (Cont*d.) 
PATIENTS IN CONTINENTAL NAVAL HOSPITALS - SELECTED DATES 
CALENDAR YEAR 19U5 
Names of Hospitals 
Date 
Nearest 13 August 
Seattle, Hash. 
Beds 
Authorized 
• 1,329 
Officer 
225 
- - - Beds 
Enlisted 
2,075 
Occupied 
Supers 
251* 
Shoemaker, Calif. 
2,398 
55 
2,823 
153 
St. Albans, N. Y. 
2,359 
1*91 
3,990 
161 
Treasure Island, Calif. 
572 
11*9 
1,097 
30 
Special Hospitals 
Arrowhead Springs, Calif. 
U5o 
20 
635 
37 
Asbuiy Park, N. J. 
i,5oo 
0 
51*6 
5 
Asheville, N. C. 
hok 
17 
31*5 
5 
Banning, Calif. 
1,000 
1 
8l5 
15 
Beaumont, Calif. 
936 
0 
239 
1 
Glenwood Springs, Colo. 
5Uo 
8 
506 
11* 
Harriman, N. Y. 
80 
61* 
0 
0 
Santa Cruz, Calif. 
886 
100 
779 
12 
Sea Gate, N. Y. 
461 
15 
661 
9 
Springfield, Mass. 
U5o 
0 
395 
29 
Sun Valley, Idaho 
1,035 
22 
9143 
13 
Yosemite, Calif. 
61*2 
61* 
633 
12 
Regular 
64,009 
6,773 
7^,9148 
1*,610 
Special 
8,381| 
311 
6,U97 
152 
Totals 
72,393 
7,08)4 
8l,l4i45 
4,762 
Source: From the files of Medical Statistical Division SPECIAL HOSPITALS 
BIBLIOGRAPHY 
Published Materials; 
Navy Department, Manual of Organization Charts. 
Unpublished Materials: 
Joint Letter, Chief of Buffed, Chief of Yards and Docks, to Comdt., 
11th Naval District, 21 November 1941* 
Eoss T Mclntire to MedOfCom, NavConvalHosp, 20 March 1945* 
Report of Inspection Trip by Rear Adm. L. Sheldon, Jr., (MC), USN, 
15 October 1943. 
Report from Capt. J. A. Biello, (MC), USN, (Ret.), C.O. of Arrowhead, 
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Memorandum 25-3/ND(113), 18-29 October 1943, covering Inspection 
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SecNav Serial 313313 to All Ships and Stations, 27 June 1945. 
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Glenwood Springs, Colorado. 
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Glenwood Springs, Colorado. 
Annual Sanitary Report, Historical Supplement, 1944, U.S.N.S.H., 
Arrowhead Springs, California. 
Annual Sanitary Report, Cumulative History, 1945, U.S.N.S.H., 
Arrowhead Springs, California. 
Annual Sanitary Report, 1944, U.S.N.S.H., Sea Gate, New York. 
Annual Sanitapy Report* Cumulative History, 1945> U.S.N.S.H., 
Sea Gate, New York. 
Annual Sanitary Report, Cumulative History, 1945, U.S.N.S.H., 
Springfield, Massachusetts. 
Annual Sanitary Report, 1944, U.S.N.S.H., Banning, California. 
Annual Sanitary Report, Cumulative History, 1945, U.S.N.S.H., 
Banning, California. 
Annual Sanitary Report, 1944, U.S.N.S.H., Asbury Park, New Jersey 
Annual Sanitary Report, 1944, U.S.N.S.H., Palm Beach, Florida, 
General Files, N.H. SO. General Files, N.H. 87. 
General Files, N.H. 91. 
General Files, N.H. 85. 
Federal Board of Hospitalization Resolutions: 
No. 13, 3 May 1943. 
No. 100, 19 April 1944. 
No. 113, 26 June 1944. 
No. 105, 29 May 1944. 
No. 140, 29 January 1945. 
No. 152, 23 February 1945. 
No. 169, 2 June 1945. 
No. 103, 19 Apri} 1944. 
No. 82, 20 January 1944.