Final answer:
The purpose of pre-positioning War Reserve Materiel is for readiness in wartime, not peacetime, making the statement false. Moreover, the claim that women were incapable of handling the burdens of war is also false, as history shows women's substantial contribution during wartime.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the purpose of War Reserve Materiel (WRM) is to pre-position materiel/supplies that are in reserve or stockpile for use during peacetime is false. War Reserve Materiel is specifically intended for wartime. To ensure readiness, countries, including the United States, maintain stockpiles of critical materials and supplies that can be swiftly accessed in the event of conflict. This could include strategic reserves of everything from basic commodities to high-tech components necessary for weapon systems. For instance, the U.S. Defense National Stockpile Center holds reserves of a wide range of materials which could be critical in times of war, even though some stockpiles have been reduced in recent years.
Regarding Exercise 8.3.2, stating that many women found themselves incapable of handling the burdens of war when their husbands and fathers went off to fight is false. Women have repeatedly stepped up to manage both home fronts and join the workforce in the absence of men during wars, showcasing their capability to handle the pressures and responsibilities of wartime conditions.