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Y. M. C. A canteen in WWI
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Y. M. C. A canteen in WWI
Y.M.C.A canteens and other organisations during World War One, providing troops with cigarettes and tobacco, and often the luxury of cooked meals. They also provided a resting place for troops to go inbetween spells in the trenches
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Media ID 14146280
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Behind Canteen Canteens Cigarettes Lines Tobacco
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the scene at a Y.M.C.A. canteen during World War One. Located behind the front lines, these canteens provided a vital respite for weary soldiers, offering them a warm meal and a moment of relaxation amidst the chaos and hardships of the battlefield. The Y.M.C.A., or Young Men's Christian Association, was one of many organizations that played a crucial role in supporting the troops during the First World War. In addition to providing food and rest, they also distributed cigarettes and tobacco, which were in high demand and often scarce. The simple wooden sign hanging above the canteen entrance reads "YMCA," a beacon of hope and comfort for soldiers as they made their way towards the makeshift building. The soldiers in this photograph sit at long tables, their faces etched with exhaustion and the harsh realities of war. They eat heartily, their plates piled high with food, savoring each bite as if it were a precious luxury. The steam rising from their bowls and plates adds to the sense of warmth and nourishment, a stark contrast to the cold, damp conditions they faced in the trenches. This photograph is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers during the First World War and the vital role that organizations like the Y.M.C.A. played in providing them with essential support and comfort. It is a powerful reminder of the human spirit and the resilience of those who served, and a testament to the enduring power of community and compassion in times of crisis.
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