World at War: Equipment Used by American Infantry in World War II

When people think of World War II, iconic images of Hitler or Stalin, photos from Iwo Jima, or even important words come to mind. Those who know anything about equipment during the period usually are very versatile in their recount of firearms, tanks, or aircraft. However, no war was ever won by bombing alone, and Tanks, for as good as they are, cannot hold land effectively.

Rather, it is up to the infantry to close with the enemy, dig him from his defensive position, and kill him or force him to surrender. And while there are many articles about the necessity and import of Infantry weapons, little if no attention is paid to Infantry gear. Literally, the equipment that kept the Infantryman warm, held his precious liquids, and carried his ammunition, shovel, cleaning kit, and personal belongings.

The soldier's typical equipment started with the M1941 uniform. This uniform combined elements of both basic dress and field uniforms, so that it could be worn in all duties. This is similar in function to today's ACU uniforms, where in many of the same parts that a person wears in garrison are also worn in the combat zone. Typically, the soldier carried leggings, a poncho, and an M1941 Field Jacket, so as to be adaptable to all field conditions.

One of the primary duties of light infantry was to remain mobile when heavy rains or winter storms might bog down mechanized, heavier forces. As a result, in addition to seasonal gear, the infantry also carried and entrenching tool.

The infantry had a support vest system known simply as 'web-gear' for carrying of mission essential equipment such as maps, compass, ammunition magazines, and even cigarettes. The Entrenching tool was usually strapped to the back of the web-gear, if not on a field backpack. A canteen cover, with canteen cup and full 2 qt canteen was an inspect-able item, a tradition that continues to this day in basic training.

In terms of preserving their lives, the infantryman of the Second World War, was far less prepared by modern standards. He used the M1941 Infantry helmet, which was designed to protect against glancing shots and shrapnel (yet not full-on penetration). Other than this, and possibly a flak jacket, he had no armor whatsoever, and depended upon maneuverability and cunning to survive. If he were to happen to be shot or wounded, he had a simple first aid kit to try to treat his own wounds.

Lastly, depending upon the role he was assigned, the infantry person might carry additional gear. The Squad Sergeant carried an extra bandoleer for holding Thompson Submachine Gun Magazines, while the signals soldier also carried a large man-pack radio.

One major fighting had concluded, field backpacks might be brought forward, so that the unit could march on to encounter and destroy more enemies. Often however, the nature of envelopment during the war meant that they were subject to envelopment and contact at any time. As a result extra weapons and supplies (in addition to clothing) was also stored in their field pack.

These were the essential items that the American Infantryman needed to fight, and win the war. And while they seem simple, many of them remain in use today.