Existing comment:
Entrenching Tool:
Originating in Roman times, the modern entrenching tool, or small spade, emerged in World War I. Primarily used for building a defensive perimeter and clearing the trenches from debris, entrenching tools were also used to dig latrines and graves. When engaging the enemy in close quarters, they were sometimes used as a weapon. Some soldiers sharpened the edges of the blade for this purpose. |