SCU 1911 at Camp Adair

Service Command Unit 1911 was part of the Ninth Service Command structure responsible for the operation and administration of Camp Adair. The unit appears frequently in the Camp Adair Sentry, demonstrating how broad its responsibilities were.

The surviving Camp Adair Sentry material specifically identifies Headquarters Company, SCU 1911, and personnel associated with the unit. 

SCU 1911 was not a combat division like the 70th, 91st, 96th, or 104th Infantry Divisions that trained at Camp Adair. Instead, it was part of the Army's service and post-support organization. These soldiers helped keep the enormous cantonment functioning so that the combat divisions could train.

Its activities included personnel associated with:

Military Police

Post administration and headquarters

Station Hospital support

Post transportation and other services

Recreation and entertainment

Band and musical activities

Security and guard duties

Supply and logistical functions

One particularly interesting example is the Military Police. The November 1942 Sentry identifies the MPs as being attached to Military Police, SCU 1911, and reports that Camp Adair's MPs were receiving equipment and even preparing to use military working dogs. 

SCU 1911 also had a significant social presence on the post. In March 1943, the Sentry announced the opening of the SCU 1911 Non-Commissioned Officers' Club. The club was supported by various Camp Adair organizations, including the Post Engineers, Quartermaster, and Sales Commissary. 

The unit also had its own band and dance musicians. During Camp Adair's September 1943 open-house activities, the SCU 1911 Band performed a concert on the parade ground, while the SCU 1911 NCO Club hosted a buffet supper and dance. 

There is also documentary evidence connecting SCU 1911 with the Station Hospital. A November 24, 1943 Army payroll document identifies the organization as “SCU 1911, Unasgd Station Hospital,” Camp Adair, Oregon. 

Why SCU 1911 matters

For the history of Camp Adair, SCU 1911 is significant because it helps tell the story behind the combat divisions. Camp Adair required thousands of soldiers and military personnel simply to operate the post guarding it, maintaining buildings, running the hospital, administering personnel, handling supplies, providing transportation, operating recreational facilities, and performing countless other duties.