The uniforms worn by the United States Army during World War II were crucial for soldier comfort, protection, and identification across diverse theaters of operation. Designed for functionality and adaptability, these uniforms evolved throughout the war to meet the changing demands of combat in Europe and the Pacific.
European Theater Uniforms
The European Theater of Operations (ETO) demanded uniforms that could withstand cold, wet conditions. Durability and warmth were key features of the clothing issued to soldiers fighting across Europe.
Field Jackets
Two main versions of field jackets were issued: the M-1941 and the M-1943. The M-1943 Field Jacket, pictured below, became the standard issue, phasing out the earlier M-1941. This improved jacket, crafted from darker olive drab cotton-poplin, offered enhanced wind and water resistance. It featured a single-breasted design with concealed buttons, two internal pockets for added utility, a detachable hood for varied weather conditions, a warm cotton-poplin liner, and an internal drawstring to ensure a snug fit. In contrast, the M-1941 jacket was a lighter olive drab cotton-poplin windbreaker style, lined with wool flannel. It had a zipper closure, a roll collar, buttoned cuffs, and slanted front pockets. While economical and widely used initially, its looser fit and less weather-resistant nature led to the development and eventual replacement by the superior M-1943.
Overcoats
For extreme cold, soldiers were issued overcoats made from wool melton. This thick, dense fabric with a soft surface provided significant warmth in harsh winter conditions.
Service Shirts
The standard service shirts were button-up style, made from olive drab wool flannel. These shirts included two breast pockets and buttoned cuffs. The collar was designed for wear with a necktie, reflecting the formal requirements of service dress even in field conditions.
P1937 Trousers
P1937 Trousers, constructed from olive drab wool serge, were versatile, suitable for both service and field wear. These unlined trousers featured a button fly, practical diagonal side pockets, a rear pocket, belt loops, and internal suspender buttons. Breeches, at this point, were primarily reserved for mounted cavalry units, highlighting the shift away from traditional cavalry in modern warfare.
M1943 Trousers
Introduced midway through the war, M-1943 Trousers were designed as an improvement for field wear. Made from a darker shade of olive drab cotton poplin, they were unlined but included adjustment tabs at the ankles and waist for better fit and layering. These trousers could be worn over wool trousers for added insulation in colder climates, demonstrating the adaptability of the uniform system.
M1938 Leggings
M1938 Leggings, made from khaki or olive drab cotton canvas, were designed to be worn with field service shoes. Laced up the side and secured with hooks, eyelets, and an instep strap, they provided ankle support and protection. However, with the introduction of combat boots in 1943, leggings became redundant and were phased out, reflecting the evolution of footwear and the obsolescence of puttees due to the absence of trench warfare in WWII.
Pacific Theater Uniforms
In the Pacific Theater of Operations (PTO), the climate demanded uniforms that were lightweight and breathable. Heat and humidity were the primary challenges, leading to the adoption of different materials and designs. Notably, camouflage was first utilized by US troops in WWII in the Pacific, to counter Japanese camouflage, although it was not widespread. These camouflage uniforms were reversible, featuring a green scheme for jungle environments and a tan scheme for beaches.
Jackets
Jackets for the Pacific theater were made from herringbone twill cotton. This olive drab material was chosen for its breathability and quick-drying properties, a significant advantage over wool in the humid jungle environment. The single-breasted jackets featured five buttons, two flap-secured breast pockets, and a roll collar designed to be worn open at the neck for ventilation. While designated for jungle and desert combat, some herringbone twill jackets were also issued to troops in the Normandy Invasion, treated for protection against chemical agents, showcasing the adaptability of certain uniform items across theaters.
Trousers
Trousers in the Pacific were also made from herringbone twill cotton in olive drab, mirroring the jacket material for the same reasons of breathability and quick drying. These unlined trousers included a button fly, belt loops, and internal suspender buttons. A key feature for jungle warfare was the inclusion of large flap-secured cargo pockets on each side, providing ample storage for essential equipment in the field.
