[What the doctor really ordered for, actual military men. They do need them. Since...well, some of the Heroes here are actual minors.

Thinking about it, that makes sense too. Bathing was an ancient practice back home too, since the modern concept was all thanks to the wonders of advanced plumbing. Plumbing wasn't that great back in the day. Perhaps it's the same here?]

Perhaps! It seems to be something that continues through the ages. If it was more recent, I think it would be more contained into one region.