Physiological Work Capacity and Performance of Soldiers Following Transatlantic Deployment

In July 1977, the Commander in Chief of US Army Europe requested information on whether and, if so, to what extent, the effects of rapid transatlantic deployment would impair the health and operational effectiveness of troops. Information could be provided only on mental and cognitive functions which have been studied in commercial travelers and aircrew personnel. However, since no data were available on physical work performance capacities, the assistance of the Army Surgeon General requested to define the scope and determine possible remedies for this critical combat readiness problem. This paper discusses a survey which was conducted to study the effects of translocation (jet-lag) on the ability of infantry soldiers to perform heavy physical work.