The uniforms worn by US soldiers in World War 2 were adapted to the different environments and climates they faced across the globe. Distinct variations existed between the European and Pacific Theaters of Operations, reflecting the diverse combat conditions.
European Theater Uniforms
In Europe, the standard US Army uniform was designed for temperate to cold weather conditions. Key components included:
Field Jackets: M-1941 and M-1943
Initially, the M-1941 field jacket served as a windbreaker-style garment. Constructed from olive drab cotton-poplin and lined with wool flannel, it featured a zipper, button closures, a roll collar, and slanted front pockets. Its economical design led to its adoption as a field replacement for the service coat.
The M-1943 field jacket emerged as an improved design, phasing out the M-1941. This darker olive drab cotton-poplin jacket incorporated hidden buttons for better closure and added functionality with two interior pockets. Crucially, it included a detachable hood, a cotton-poplin liner for added warmth, and an internal synching tie allowing for a more tailored fit and enhanced wind and water resistance.
Overcoats
For colder conditions, soldiers were issued wool melton overcoats. These were made from a thick, dense wool fabric with a soft surface, providing substantial warmth in harsh European winters.
Service Shirts
Olive drab wool flannel button-up service shirts were standard issue. These shirts featured two breast pockets, secure cuffs, and a collar designed for wear with a necktie, reflecting the formality maintained even in field conditions.
Trousers: P1937 and M1943
P1937 trousers, crafted from olive drab wool serge, were the standard trousers for both service and field wear. These unlined trousers featured a button fly, diagonal side pockets, a rear pocket, belt loops, and internal suspender buttons. Breeches were largely relegated to mounted cavalry units by this time.
Later in the war, the M1943 trousers were introduced. Made from a darker shade of olive drab cotton poplin, they were unlined and designed with adjustment tabs at the ankles and waist. This allowed them to be worn over wool trousers in colder climates, offering increased adaptability.
Leggings: M1938
M1938 leggings, made of khaki or olive drab cotton canvas, were worn in conjunction with field service shoes. Laced up the side and secured with hooks and eyelets, they featured an instep strap. With the introduction of combat boots in 1943, leggings became redundant and were phased out, along with puttees, as trench warfare was no longer a dominant form of combat.
Pacific Theater Uniforms
In the Pacific Theater, US troops required uniforms suited to hot, humid jungle and tropical island environments. Camouflage was introduced in this theater, predating its use by US forces in Europe, due to German camouflage usage. However, camouflage was not widespread. Pacific uniforms were often reversible, featuring a green scheme for jungle environments and a tan scheme for beaches.
Jackets
Jackets for the Pacific theater were constructed from herringbone twill cotton. This unlined olive drab material was chosen for its breathability and quick-drying properties compared to wool. The single-breasted jacket featured five buttons, two flap-secured breast pockets, and a roll collar designed to be worn open, promoting ventilation in the heat. While designated for jungle-desert combat, some herringbone twill jackets with added chemical protection were issued to troops during the Normandy Invasion.
Trousers
Pacific theater trousers also utilized herringbone twill cotton in olive drab. Similar to the jackets, this material offered superior breathability and drying capabilities. These unlined trousers featured a button fly, belt loops, internal suspender buttons, and large flap-secured cargo pockets on each side for increased carrying capacity in the field.
