Chemical Warfare Service (CWS)

The Chemical Warfare Service (CWS) was a branch of the U.S. Army established during World War I to develop and manage chemical weapons, such as gases and aerosols used in warfare. Its role included research, production, and deployment of chemical agents, as well as training soldiers to handle these weapons safely and effectively. The CWS aimed to protect troops from enemy chemical attacks while providing the means to use chemical warfare against opponents. Though its significance declined after the war, the CWS later evolved into the Chemical Corps, focusing on defense and safety in modern military operations.