John Bowe to Knute Nelson

Senator Nelson

Dear Sir — Just a few lines to let you know how glad I am to see the wise and energetic manner in which the men in charge (dont know who are the responsible heads) are getting down to business at Washington.

As an old soldier I know you have your eye on the military end of these affairs–so am writing to tell you what a great change there is in tactics since the old days—

Now-a days a man need not be so efficiently drilled in the manual of arms – but must be hard, and a good marcher – In trench warfare the rifle has been somewhat superceded by the grenade – revolver and knife – all more suitable for business in the narrow crooked trenches–

He must be able to judge distances; man and manipulate a machine gun – throw grenades, and be a good shot – whereas in former days his strength counted – now it is his brains —

Generals Foch & Haig have solved the trench deadlock the machine gun and rifle will be the leading weapons in future – on account of more open warfare.

In 1915 the English took 8 months to turn out a soldier– the French 8 weeks — that is all the training I had before I went to the Front and I could not speak a word of French

Now the English after 8 weeks send their men over to France where they are used in tranquil sectors among more seasoned comrades, and gradually worked up to the standard of efficiency — The soldier receives a practical instead of a theoretical education and learns to take care of himself.

I understand there is a feeling a soldier must be completely trained in America before being sent over here — It is a waste of time, labor, energy and money –

An American officer wrote me in 1915 that he thought the sentiment of the majority of officers in the US was favorable to Germany, that the efficiency of the German system appealed to them – and that it gave them complete control of the men –

I was surprized at the statement but can see how they figured it out — The efficient soldier of today is made by developing his initiative, instead of brutalizing him so he has no reasoning power left - and make of him a spoke in an immense machine - rather than an independent unit

The French system is much preferable to Americans than the German

The French officer, instead of being a snob - a brute - an object of distrust and hatred to his men, is invariably a gentleman, and the father to his company; he studies his men, understands them, listens to their views, gives them advice or punishment as the case may be – and they in return respect rather than fear – and willingly help instead of grudgingly obey.

I am delighted to see the huge credits you have voted, the taking over of the Boche ships; the building programme for new ships, the adaptation of the English Rifle and of French artillery, and finally compulsory military service–

There should be no exemptions granted Every man has equal rights there should be equal obligations - anything less would be unjust and cause trouble & discontent

I trust you dont think I am officious, or trying to give advice

These observations are what I have picked up over here, and send them along for your information as I know you are interested in this continuous polytecnic display that is being pulled off here