The uniforms worn by US troops in the Pacific Theater during World War II are a subject of ongoing interest, particularly for historians, wargamers, and model painters. Distinguishing between the uniforms of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and the US Army in this theater often comes down to subtle nuances in color and style. This article delves into the specifics of these Pacific Uniforms, addressing common questions about their shades of green and the distinctions between them.
The initial query in online forums often revolves around the precise shade of green used by the USMC for their dungarees, questioning if it was a lighter and “greener” hue compared to the Army’s Olive Drab (OD). Discussions also arise regarding whether the US Army adopted Marine-style uniforms in the Pacific and if their shades of green were identical.
Experts and enthusiasts in online discussions have clarified these points. The US Army utilized their own uniforms, primarily HBT (Herringbone Twill) fatigues, which were indeed a different shade of green than the USMC utilities. While pinpointing an “official” color for Marine herringbones is challenging due to variations and fading, the consensus leans towards a blue-green base that quickly faded to a green-grey tone under field conditions. Paint color recommendations like Vallejo Green Grey are often cited as accurate representations of this faded USMC uniform color.
Conversely, the US Army uniforms, while also subject to fading, tended to retain more of an olive green hue. The Army’s HBT fatigues were distinct from the Marine dungarees in both color and cut. While both were designed for tropical climates, the shades of green served different camouflage purposes within their respective operational environments across the Pacific.
The rapid fading of pacific uniforms under the harsh conditions of the Pacific climate is a crucial factor. Exposure to sun, saltwater, and the general wear and tear of combat operations contributed to uniforms quickly losing their original color. Some anecdotal accounts even mention Marines intentionally fading their new uniforms to achieve a more seasoned look, highlighting the practical realities of uniform appearance in the field.
For miniature painters and modelers aiming for historical accuracy, understanding these color variations is essential. Paint manufacturers offer a range of colors intended to replicate these pacific uniforms. Recommendations from experienced painters include:
- USMC Uniforms: Vallejo Green Grey (886), Model Master USMC Green (though noted as potentially darker and more suited for vehicles), Tamiya XF-61 (Forest Green), Vallejo Grey/Green 886. For camouflage variations, Vallejo Pastel Green (885), English Uniform (921), Flat Brown (984), and Russian Green (894) are suggested.
- US Army Uniforms: Dark Shade OD #7.
Furthermore, techniques for achieving a realistic faded look are discussed, including washes and highlighting using lighter shades. One detailed method involves using Vallejo Green Grey as a base, followed by a thinned mix of Green Grey and Off-White, and then a wash created with Lahmian Medium and small amounts of Green Grey and Black.
In conclusion, while both USMC and US Army pacific uniforms utilized green hues, distinct differences existed in their shades and how they aged in the field. The USMC favored a blue-green that faded to green-grey, while the US Army employed an Olive Drab that retained more olive tones. Understanding these nuances, along with the effects of weathering and fading, is key to accurately representing these uniforms, whether for historical study, wargaming, or miniature painting. The shared knowledge and practical advice from online communities continue to be valuable resources for those seeking to decode the colors of pacific uniforms.
It’s also worth noting the mention of LVTs (Landing Vehicle Tracked) and their camouflage in later battles, moving from early grey to camouflaged schemes, reflecting the evolving tactical needs in the Pacific theater.
