alimentation | feeding

brigade | an army unit
(see http://www.1914-1918.net/whatbrig.htm)

crabs | lice that live in body hair - arm pits, rude bits

excreta | pooh

pediculosis | a skin disease causing uncomfortable itching

old campaigners | soldiers used to fighting and battle conditions

sepsis | infection

trench fever | flu-like symptoms caused by lice droppings

thresh apparatus | steam disinfecting equipment

verminous | lice-ridden

vermijelli | crude mineral oil, soft soap and water mixed 9:5:1
A funny nickname word playing on vermicelli, the italian pasta and vermin jelly