During World War II, the United States Army issued distinct uniforms tailored for different theaters of operation, primarily the European Theater of Operations (ETO) and the Pacific Theater of Operations (PTO). These uniforms were designed to provide soldiers with protection and functionality in diverse climates and combat environments.
European Theater of Operations
The uniforms in the European Theater were designed to combat colder, wetter conditions.
Field Jackets
Two main versions of field jackets were issued: the 1941 and the improved 1943 model.
The 1943 field jacket was a significant upgrade. Constructed from darker olive drab cotton-poplin, it replaced the 1941 version due to its enhanced features. This single-breasted jacket incorporated hidden buttons for a cleaner profile and included practical additions such as two interior pockets, a detachable hood, and a warm cotton-poplin liner. An internal synching tie allowed for a more fitted silhouette, improving comfort and mobility. Crucially, the 1943 jacket was designed to be more wind- and water-resistant, offering better protection against the harsh European weather.
The earlier 1941 field jacket, in contrast, was a windbreaker-style jacket made from olive drab cotton-poplin and lined with wool flannel for warmth. It featured a zipper closure, a roll collar, buttons, and slanted front pockets. Its looser, more economical design led to its adoption as a replacement for the heavier service coat in field conditions.
Overcoats
For extreme cold, soldiers were issued overcoats made from wool melton. This thick, dense fabric with a soft surface provided substantial warmth in frigid European winters.
Service Shirts
The standard service shirt was a button-up style made of olive drab wool flannel. These shirts included two breast pockets and cuffs that could be secured. The collar was designed to accommodate a necktie, although ties were not typically worn in combat.
P1937 Trousers
P1937 Trousers, crafted from olive drab wool serge, were standard issue for both service and field duty. These unlined trousers featured a button fly, diagonal side pockets, a single rear pocket, belt loops, and internal suspender buttons. Breeches were largely phased out, being primarily used only by mounted cavalry units by this time.
M1943 Trousers
Introduced mid-war, the M1943 trousers were made from a darker shade of olive drab cotton poplin and were unlined. They included adjustment tabs at the ankles and waist, allowing them to be worn over wool trousers for added insulation in colder climates.
M1938 Leggings
M1938 Leggings, made of khaki or olive drab cotton canvas, were designed to be worn with field service shoes. They laced up the side and were secured with hooks and eyelets, featuring an instep strap. With the introduction of combat boots in 1943, leggings became redundant and were phased out, especially as trench warfare was no longer a dominant form of combat. Puttees had also been discontinued for similar reasons.
Pacific Theater of Operations
In the Pacific Theater, uniforms prioritized breathability and camouflage in jungle and beach environments. Notably, US troops first utilized camouflage in WWII in the Pacific, unlike in Europe where German forces were already using it.
Jackets
Jackets for the Pacific were made from herringbone twill cotton. This unlined olive drab material was chosen for its superior breathability and quick-drying properties compared to wool. The single-breasted jacket featured five buttons, two flap-secured breast pockets, and a roll collar designed to be worn open. While designated for jungle-desert combat, some herringbone twill jackets with added chemical protection were also issued to troops involved in the Normandy Invasion.
Trousers
Similar to the jackets, trousers for the Pacific were also made from herringbone twill cotton in olive drab. These unlined trousers shared the same breathable and quick-drying qualities. 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.
This overview highlights the key uniform components worn by American soldiers in World War II, showcasing the adaptations made for the distinct challenges of the European and Pacific Theaters. The evolution of these uniforms reflects the US Army’s commitment to equipping its soldiers for victory in diverse and demanding conditions.
