The American Army uniforms of World War 2 were designed for functionality and adaptability across diverse combat environments, from the cold European winters to the tropical Pacific jungles. This overview delves into the key uniform components worn by US soldiers in the European and Pacific Theaters of Operations.
European Theater of Operations Uniforms
The uniforms worn in the European Theater were primarily designed for colder climates and more traditional warfare scenarios.
Field Jackets
Two main types of field jackets were utilized: the M-1941 and the M-1943. The M-1943 field jacket, distinguished by its darker olive drab cotton-poplin, was introduced to replace the earlier M-1941 version. The M-1943 featured a single-breasted design with concealed buttons, incorporating added functionality with two interior pockets, a detachable hood, and a cotton-poplin liner for increased warmth. An internal synching tie allowed for a more tailored fit and improved wind and water resistance. In contrast, the M-1941 field jacket was an olive drab cotton-poplin windbreaker-style jacket lined with wool flannel. It featured a zipper closure, a roll collar, buttons, and slanted front pockets. Its looser fit and economical design made it a practical replacement for the service coat in field conditions.
Alt text: Close-up of the World War 2 American M-1943 field jacket, showcasing its darker olive drab color, hidden buttons, and cotton-poplin fabric.
Overcoats
For extreme cold weather, soldiers were issued overcoats crafted from wool melton. This material was chosen for its thick, dense weave and soft surface, providing substantial warmth and protection against harsh winter conditions.
Service Shirts
The standard service shirt was a button-up style made from olive drab wool flannel. It included two breast pockets and cuffs that could be secured. The collar was designed to be worn with a necktie, reflecting the army’s attention to maintaining a degree of formality even in field uniforms.
P1937 Trousers
P1937 Trousers, constructed from olive drab wool serge, were standard issue for both service and field wear. These trousers were designed with a button fly, and unlined for comfort. Practicality was emphasized with diagonal side pockets, a single rear pocket, belt loops, and internal suspender buttons, allowing for various methods of securing the trousers. Breeches, at this time, were largely relegated to mounted cavalry units, reflecting the changing nature of warfare.
M1943 Trousers
Mid-war saw the introduction of the M-1943 trousers. These trousers were made from a darker shade of olive drab cotton poplin and were unlined, making them suitable for milder conditions or layering. Adjustment tabs at the ankles and waist provided a degree of customization in fit, and their design allowed them to be worn over wool trousers for added insulation in colder environments.
M1938 Leggings
M1938 Leggings, made from khaki or olive drab cotton canvas, were worn in conjunction with field service shoes. These leggings were laced up the side and secured with a cord and hooks and eyelets. An adjustable strap ensured a snug fit under the instep of the soldier’s boot. The introduction of combat boots in 1943 rendered leggings unnecessary, as the boots provided sufficient ankle support and protection. Puttees, similar cloth wraps, were also phased out as trench warfare became less prevalent in the evolving combat landscape.
Pacific Theater of Operations Uniforms
In the Pacific Theater, the US Army adapted its uniforms to the hot and humid jungle and island environments. Camouflage was first introduced here for US troops in WWII, recognizing the need for concealment in dense vegetation, unlike in Europe where German forces were already utilizing camouflage.
Jackets
Jackets for the Pacific theater were made from herringbone twill cotton. This unlined, olive drab material was chosen for its breathability and quick-drying properties, crucial in the humid climate. The single-breasted jacket featured five buttons, two flap-secured breast pockets, and a roll collar designed to be worn open at the neck for ventilation. While primarily intended as jungle-desert combat wear, some herringbone twill jackets were issued to troops involved in the Normandy Invasion, modified with chemical agent protection, illustrating the adaptability of these uniforms.
Alt text: American soldier in World War 2 Pacific Theater uniform, highlighting the herringbone twill jacket and trousers in a jungle environment, demonstrating camouflage effectiveness.
Trousers
Similar to the jackets, trousers for the Pacific theater were also made from herringbone twill cotton in olive drab. These unlined trousers featured a button fly, belt loops, and suspender buttons. A significant addition for jungle warfare was the inclusion of large flap-secured cargo pockets on each side, providing ample storage for essential gear in the field.
