Packet of cotton wool, 1941

Absorbent compressed cotton wool surgical dressing in packaging marked with the manufacturer, T J Smith and Nephew Limited, Hull, England, July/December 1941.

One of eight packets of cotton wool from the contents of an airborne surgical haversack. Troops received medical attention faster than ever before in World War Two (1939-1945). Medics even parachuted or flew into battle. Seven British Parachute and Airlanding Field Ambulances were established during the war.