Our Basic Uniform

  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:

You want to look like this guy.
The basic Army wool uniform at the beginning of the war.
Original photo, courtesy of Life Magazine.

  It's best to go with the most basic uniform as it will be good and accurate for events early and later in the war. Starting with this base, you will be able to later add and tweak the uniform to better reflect different periods of the war.

Shopping

  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-BayŠ, 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. It's important to not rush out and try to buy everything, especially if on a budget. Do your research and start with the basic kit first. Then work your way to more specialized and time or event specific items (such as Camo HBTs or Double Buckle Boots).

The Wools

  The basic uniform of an enlisted soldier in the U.S. Army is a wool shirt and pants.

Wool Shirt

Wool Pants

Web Belt

Garrison Cap

  Put it together and you'll have a uniform that looks a lot like this (with or without cheesy smile).

This is the basic Class B uniform.

Boots

  Boots have come a long way since 1941. The US Soldier of WW2 was initially given two type of boots: The Reverse Upper Service Shoe (commonly kown as Roughouts) 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.

Russet Service Shoe

Roughout Shoes

Leggings

Double-Buckle Boots

  We recommend to those starting out in reenacting that they buy a pair of Roughout or Russet Boots as they are appropriate for just about any period of the war. If you want 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. Here are some items that we consider essential as part of your basic kit.

M1 Helmet

Field Jacket

T-Shirts

Wool "Jeep" Cap

  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 for later war. Soldiers were issued Olive Drab tank tops for summer wear and white or grey (and later OD) long-sleeve undershirts for winter wear. Stay away from brown or tan shirts if possible.

If you're able to get these items, you're pretty set on your basic uniform kit and will be able to reenact just about anything. There is a lot more stuff that was issued to our G.I.s during WWII, especially as the war waged on from Winter of 1941. For a beginner, it's not a priority and we would hope you'd purchase what's on this page before you purchase and acquire any other uniforms. To read about them, click on the "More Uniforms" link read more.

Recruiting Subsections