During World War II, the United States military adapted its uniforms to meet the diverse environmental and combat conditions across different theaters of operation. This adaptation is clearly illustrated when comparing the uniforms worn in the European and Pacific theaters. Each theater demanded specific features from military attire, influencing the materials, designs, and functionality of the standard issue uniforms.
European Theater Uniforms
In the European Theater of Operations (ETO), characterized by colder climates and varied terrains, US military uniforms were designed for durability and protection against the elements.
Field Jackets
Two primary field jackets were issued: the M-1941 and the M-1943. The M-1943 field jacket, pictured here, superseded the earlier M-1941 model with several key improvements. Manufactured from darker olive drab cotton-poplin, it featured concealed buttons, two internal pockets, and a detachable hood. A significant upgrade was the inclusion of a cotton-poplin liner and an internal drawstring, enhancing both fit and protection against wind and water. In contrast, the M-1941 jacket was a windbreaker style made of olive drab cotton-poplin lined with wool flannel. It had a zipper, a roll collar, buttons, and slanted front pockets. Its economical design and looser fit led to its adoption as a replacement for the service coat in field conditions.
Overcoats
Constructed from wool melton, overcoats provided an additional layer of warmth in the European cold. The dense, thick fabric with a soft surface ensured substantial protection against harsh weather.
Service Shirts
Service shirts were button-up garments made of olive drab wool flannel. They featured two breast pockets, secure cuffs, and a collar designed for wear with a necktie, maintaining a degree of formality even in service uniforms.
P1937 Trousers
P1937 Trousers, made from olive drab wool serge, were standard issue for both service and field duty. These unlined trousers had a button fly, diagonal side pockets, a single rear pocket, belt loops, and internal suspender buttons. Breeches at this time were largely relegated to mounted cavalry units.
M1943 Trousers
Introduced mid-war, the M-1943 trousers were crafted from a darker shade of olive drab cotton poplin. These unlined trousers included adjustment tabs at the ankles and waist, allowing them to be worn over wool trousers for added insulation in colder environments.
M1938 Leggings
M1938 Leggings, made of 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 additional lower leg protection. With the introduction of combat boots in 1943, leggings became obsolete, as did puttees, reflecting the shift away from trench warfare.
Pacific Theater Uniforms
The Pacific Theater of Operations (PTO) presented different challenges, primarily heat and humidity. US military uniforms here prioritized breathability and quick-drying properties. Notably, camouflage was first adopted by US troops in WWII in the Pacific, contrary to common assumptions about its European origins (where German forces used it). While not widespread, these 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 unlined, olive drab material was chosen for its superior breathability and faster drying time compared to wool. The single-breasted jacket featured five buttons, two flap-secured breast pockets, and a roll collar designed to be worn open for ventilation. While intended for jungle and desert combat, some herringbone twill jackets with added chemical protection were issued to troops involved in the Normandy Invasion.
Trousers
Similar to the jackets, trousers in the Pacific theater were also made from herringbone twill cotton in olive drab. These unlined trousers shared the breathability and quick-drying advantages. They included a button fly, belt loops, internal suspender buttons, and large flap-secured cargo pockets on each side for increased carrying capacity in the field.
