trench features

• no-man's land

  • the hotly contested area between two opposing trenches
• barbed wire

  • slowed infantry from advancing towards trench and prolonged enemies in the kill zone
  • defensive purposes
  • trapping mechanism
• parapet

  • protect the heads and shoulders of soldiers manning the firestep
• elbow rest

  • used when shooting for a more precise aim
• ammunition shelf

  • store and stock ammunition
• firestep

  • a platform where soldiers could shoot at the enemy above the parapet
• duckboards

  • slabs of wood
  • provide a safe footing across wet or muddy ground
• sump

  • a drainage channel to prevent trenches from becoming waterlogged
• dugout

  • shelter on the side of the trench
  • used as living quarters, supply storage, or protection
• sandbags

  • stacked to protect soldiers from rifle fire
  • soak up water at the bottom of the trench
• trench features: