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| Getting Started... |
It is not our place to give reviews of who sells the best stuff. We have links posted that are regular places our members choose to shop. But, what we prefer to do is educate you with the proper information so you know what to look for. Whether it's hunting on an online auction place like e-Bay©, going through online antique stores, or buying reproduction items, you can still buy the wrong item from trustworthy dealers. As you read our Uniforms, Equipment, and Weapons pages, click on the image of the item and you'll be able to read tips on what to look for when purchasing one for yourself. With time, experience, and education, you'll be aware of what to look for on your own without even realizing it.
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Our Uniforms |
The Uniforms of the US Army Soldier in WW2 went through some changes from the 1930s to the end of the war. As combat began testing the very clothes and equipment the soldiers were using, contractors began making adjustments. However, many of the newer items didn't necessarily make it to front-line troops as quickly as they were produced. So, it's always the better idea to go with earlier war items as it was normal to see troops in 1945 with items issued in 1941.
The standard uniform of a soldier was the Wool Uniform:
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Wool Shirt |
Wool Pants |
Web Belt |
Garrison Cap |
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Put together, it looked a lot like this (with or without cheesy smile):
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Alright, that's the basic get-up. Certainly not a fighting uniform just yet, but we're getting there.
Boots |
Boots have come a long way since 1941. The US Soldier of WW2 was initially given two type of boots: The Roughout Service Shoe and the Russet Service Shoe. They were ankle-cut boots with leather construction and rubber soles. The ankles and calves were protected by canvas leggings. Later in the war, the Army issued double-buckle boots, which eliminated the need (and hassle) of leggings.
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Roughouts |
Russets |
Leggings |
Double-Buckle |
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We recommend to those starting out in reenacting that they buy a pair of Roughout or Russet Boots as they are appropriate for any period of the war. To be economical, the russets can serve as both your combat boot AND your dress shoe. Just be prepared to do some polishing before putting on those nice Class As. |
Field Clothes |
The uniform ensemble so far is good for the barracks and the base. The wools were meant to be used as both combat and dress uniforms. But the Army gave the G.I. a few more things to help him out once he took to the field. |
M41 Jacket |
Wool "Jeep" Cap |
Undershirts |
M1 Helmet |
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The M41 jacket is something you'll want to get. It'll keep you warm. We also recommend a jeep cap. T-shirts are going to have to be modern ones, so get a pack of them. White for early war, Olive Drab or brown for later war. The Olive Drab tank top is also fine to wear.
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