The American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) entered World War I in 1917, and their uniforms played a crucial role in distinguishing them on the battlefield while providing necessary protection and functionality. These uniforms, often referred to as “doughboy” attire, evolved throughout the war, reflecting both practical needs and standardization efforts.
Service Dress Uniform
The standard uniform for the American soldier in WWI was the service dress, primarily made of olive drab wool. This color was chosen for its camouflage properties, blending effectively with various terrains.
Service Coat, M1917
The M1917 service coat was a four-pocket tunic made of olive drab wool. It featured a stand-and-fall collar, buttoned front closure, and integral belt with adjustable buttons. The four pockets, two breast and two hip, provided ample space for carrying essential items. Rank insignia was displayed on the sleeves, and branch of service insignia was often worn on the collar.
Breeches and Trousers
For the lower body, soldiers were issued olive drab wool breeches or trousers. Breeches, tighter fitting below the knee, were typically worn with puttees or leggings and service shoes or boots. Trousers, a looser, straight-legged style, became more common later in the war and were often worn with leggings or boots. Both were made of wool serge and featured button flies and suspender buttons.
Overseas Cap
A distinctive feature of the AEF uniform was the overseas cap, also known as the garrison cap or forage cap. This soft, foldable cap was convenient to carry when a helmet was worn and became a symbol of the American soldier in WWI. It was made of olive drab wool and often featured branch of service insignia.
Field Uniform and Equipment
While the service dress was standard, field conditions necessitated additional garments and equipment for protection against the elements and combat.
M1917 Helmet
The most iconic piece of field equipment was the M1917 helmet, a direct copy of the British Brodie helmet. Made of steel, it provided crucial protection against shrapnel and other battlefield hazards. It was painted olive drab and sometimes covered with burlap or netting for camouflage.
Overcoat
For cold weather conditions, soldiers were issued heavy wool overcoats. These were long, double-breasted coats made of thick melton cloth, providing significant warmth. They were essential for soldiers enduring the harsh winters in Europe.
Raincoat and Poncho
Protection from rain was provided by rubberized raincoats or waterproof ponchos. These garments helped keep soldiers dry in wet conditions, crucial for maintaining health and combat effectiveness in the often-muddy trenches.
Leather Jerkin
Leather jerkins, sleeveless leather vests, were sometimes issued for extra warmth in cold weather, particularly for specialized troops or during winter months.
Footwear: Service Shoes and Trench Boots
Footwear evolved during the war. Initially, service shoes, leather ankle boots, were standard. However, the muddy conditions of trench warfare led to the adoption of trench boots. These were more substantial leather boots, often treated for water resistance, providing better protection and support in the challenging terrain. Leggings or puttees were often worn with both types of footwear for added ankle support and protection.
Variations and Specialized Uniforms
While the olive drab wool service dress was standard, there were variations and specialized uniforms:
- Officers’ Uniforms: Officer uniforms were generally similar in style but often made of higher quality materials and could include customized tailoring. They also had distinct rank insignia.
- Aviation Uniforms: Aviators had specialized uniforms, often including leather jackets and helmets for protection against the cold and wind at high altitudes in open cockpit aircraft.
- Tank Corps Uniforms: Tank corps personnel sometimes wore specialized protective gear, including helmets and padded clothing, due to the cramped and dangerous conditions inside early tanks.
- Marine Corps Uniforms: While generally similar to the Army, US Marines in WWI had some distinct uniform features and variations.
Conclusion
World War I American uniforms were designed for practicality, protection, and identification on the battlefield. The iconic olive drab wool service dress and M1917 helmet became symbols of the “doughboy” and the American military presence in the Great War. While standardized, the uniforms also adapted to the harsh realities of trench warfare and the diverse environmental conditions encountered by American troops in Europe. The evolution of these uniforms reflects the lessons learned during the war and the ongoing efforts to equip soldiers effectively for the challenges of modern combat.
