What was used to make a coffee substitute given American troops in World War 2?

During World War II, the most common coffee substitute for American troops was "G.I. Joe", a blend of roasted barley, rye, and chicory. This mixture was often referred to simply as "chicory".

Here's why it was used:

* Coffee Shortages: During the war, coffee was a scarce resource due to supply chain disruptions and rationing.

* Availability: Barley, rye, and chicory were more readily available in the US, making them viable alternatives.

* Taste: While not quite the same as coffee, these substitutes provided a similar, albeit slightly bitter, taste and a caffeine kick.

Other substitutes used occasionally:

* Roasted acorn: This was sometimes used in desperate situations due to its availability in certain regions.

* Dandelion root: Another option, though less common, as it required more processing.

It's worth noting that while these substitutes were widely used, many troops longed for the taste of real coffee during their time in the war.