The American Army uniform underwent significant evolution from World War 1 to World War 2, adapting to different combat environments and technological advancements. While the iconic doughboy uniform of WW1 is distinct, the lessons and foundations laid in that era influenced the development of the uniforms worn by American soldiers in the Second World War. This article delves into the key features of the US Army uniforms in the European and Pacific Theaters of Operations during WW2.
European Theater of Operations
The uniforms in the European Theater were designed for varied weather conditions and combat scenarios.
Field Jackets
Two main versions of field jackets were prominent: the 1941 and the improved 1943 models. The 1943 field jacket (pictured below) in a darker olive drab cotton-poplin was a significant upgrade. It featured a single-breasted design with concealed buttons, two internal pockets, a detachable hood, a cotton-poplin liner, and an internal tie for a snug fit. Its enhanced wind and water resistance made it more practical in the European climate compared to its predecessor. The 1941 field jacket, a windbreaker style in olive drab cotton-poplin with a wool flannel lining, had a zipper, roll collar, buttons, and slanted front pockets. Its economical design led to its widespread use in the field, effectively replacing the service coat for many soldiers.
Overcoats
For colder conditions, soldiers were issued overcoats made of wool melton. This thick, dense fabric with a soft surface provided substantial warmth in the European winter.
Service Shirts
The service shirts were button-up style, made from olive drab wool flannel. They included two breast pockets and secure cuffs. Designed with a collar for neckties, these shirts were a standard part of the uniform.
P1937 Trousers
P1937 Trousers, crafted from olive drab wool serge, were versatile for both service and field use. These unlined trousers featured a button fly, diagonal side pockets, a rear pocket, belt loops, and internal suspender buttons. Breeches at this time were largely reserved for mounted cavalry units.
M1943 Trousers
Introduced mid-war, the M1943 trousers were a darker olive drab, unlined cotton poplin. They incorporated adjustment tabs at the ankles and waist and were designed to be worn over wool trousers for added warmth in cold weather.
M1938 Leggings
M1938 Leggings, in khaki or olive drab cotton canvas, were worn with field service shoes. Laced up the side and secured with hooks and eyelets, they had an instep strap. With the introduction of combat boots in 1943, leggings became redundant for troops receiving the new boots. Puttees, remnants of earlier uniform designs, were also phased out due to the shift away from trench warfare, a key characteristic of WW1.
Pacific Theater of Operations
Camouflage made its debut for US troops in WWII in the Pacific Theater, a notable difference from the European front where its use was less common due to German forces also utilizing camouflage. Pacific uniforms were often reversible, featuring a green scheme for jungle environments and a tan scheme for beaches.
Jackets
Jackets in the Pacific were made from herringbone twill cotton. This unlined, olive drab material was chosen for its breathability and quick-drying properties, crucial in the humid Pacific climate. The single-breasted jacket featured five buttons, two flap-secured breast pockets, and a roll collar meant to be worn open. While designated for jungle-desert combat, some herringbone twill jackets were issued to troops in the Normandy Invasion, modified for chemical agent protection.
Trousers
Similar to the jackets, trousers for the Pacific were also made from herringbone twill cotton in olive drab. These unlined trousers had a button fly, belt loops, internal suspender buttons, and large flap-secured cargo pockets on each side, enhancing their utility in the field.
