Final answer:
The M50 Gas Mask carrier was worn by soldiers during combat to protect against chemical attacks. Gas masks became essential by the midpoint of World War I, albeit they were uncomfortable and restricted vision, symbolizing the terrors of warfare that included the invisible threat of gas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The M50 Gas Mask carrier could be worn by soldiers during combat situations to protect against chemical warfare. By the midpoint of World War I, gas masks had become an essential part of a soldier's equipment. Soldiers would have to quickly put on their gas masks upon hearing the alert of a potential gas attack. Despite their protective qualities, these masks were uncomfortable, they restricted vision, and could make the already stressful combat environment even more daunting. The fear of gas attacks was pervasive among soldiers as they not only had to contend with the threat of enemy force, but also with the invisible and silent danger of chemical warfare.