Military Uniforms

   Much of the male population fought in World War II. Men of all ages fought in what was considered the bloodiest war in the history of the United States. The uniforms supplied for soldiers came in every style and material imaginable. Military uniforms for returning and visiting soldiers were worn on off days to show their support and love for their country. They wanted all to see their dedication and the hard work they had demonstrated for America. There were many designs of clothing that the men wore when going into battle. The Eisenhower jacket named after General Eisenhower became one of the most popular jackets during wartime. This had a bigger, fuller chest and had a waist-length jacket. The soldiers were covered from head to toe in protective gear. Coats were made of many different materials and had many different uses. Wool was for colder occasions, while demin was worn for durability and movement. Pilots and airmen wore aviation coats and working coats were worn on a day-to-day basis as well. All types of coats were necessary for different soldiers who fought, for every sort of weather, and for any job that needed to be done. Jackets were also made from wool, twill, and for arctic, mountain, rain, winter, combat, and tropical service situations. Soldiers specialized in certain terrains and the lack of clothing could mean life or death. Trousers were cotton, wool, elastic, and two-piece. Pants for air corps were necessary and even the bakers and cooks had specific pants to wear. Mountain, field, khaki, and parachute pants were worn by soldiers who specialized in these areas. The pants provided swiftness for fighting, movement, and warmth. Lastly, every soldier had to wear a pair of boots. Boots such as combat, jungle, leather, rubber knee, parachute jumper, and ski-mountain were all worn. Shoes were an important item because they protected soldier’s feet from the cold and wet conditions. Being able to travel on foot was necessary and without appropriate shoes, this was impossible. Every soldier, nurse, cook, and pilot was fully and adequately dressed for battle. There were different uniforms for every occasion. The men never seemed to be lacking with their gear. This proved to be an advantage for the victory of our American troops. No matter the weather or harsh conditions that they faced, they were always ready for battle. That was an advantage to living in a country such as the United States. The coats, jackets, pants, and boots worn then have influenced the way our troops dress now.