"MRE 1" is common accepted history wrong about 1981 for introduction?

[Rstel01]

Well since this is the best site for the "historical" discussions.

I believe accepted history for "production" of MRE version 1 begins in 1981

Interesting find yesterday to add to my collection:





Or is this from the original "test group"?

The Lot "1-7" possibly denotes be 7th iteration of "Lot 1"
Kind of similar with the marking I have on my case of the experimental Long Life Ration with just lot 1

[Amelieee1]

Well since this is the best site for the "historical" discussions.

I believe accepted history for "production" of MRE version 1 begins in 1981

Interesting find yesterday to add to my collection:





Or is this from the original "test group"?

The Lot "1-7" possibly denotes be 7th iteration of "Lot 1"
Kind of similar with the marking I have on my case of the experimental Long Life Ration with just lot 1

The first MAJOR production began in 1981, these 1980s only have 2 year inspections, and are essentially a large "test run" before main production

[Rstel01]

Thank you! Yes the "2-year" inspection was odd to me.

It's funny I didn't even realize the date/significance of the date until I got home and was like "what the heck". I just wanted a Pre-FRH type "flat box" MRE case to use for display in the back of my M151A2 to be period correct for the early 1980's.

[norge]

The first big trail run was packed in 1980 so in fact it was the birth of the general issue MRE
I got a case just like that to with the shorter inspection date, my case is also packed 1980 but i dont remember the Lot nr.

Nice find, hope you keep it sealed as original

cheers ken