June 6th, 1944, known as D-Day, was the largest amphibious assault in United States history. More than 150,000 soldiers and nearly 200,000 sailors from the United States and Great Britain took place in the operation, which ultimately led to the downfall of the Axis Powers in Europe.
But what did American D-Day infantrymen carry, and why? Here’s a quick snapshot of WW2 US uniforms, field gear, weapons and other items.
The Uniform and Other Gear
The WW2 US uniform for the D-Day infantrymen, in most cases, consisted of HBT trousers paired with a corresponding HBT jacket or a flannel shirt, and possibly with an M41 field jacket that would offer a little more utility. A division patch would likely be placed on the left sleeve of the jacket or shirt.
“HBT” in this case stands for herringbone twill, a very tough, thick, durable cotton fabric that was wear and tear resistant, making it generally suitable for use in the field. As for the M41 field jacket, it was designed as a shell to provide a little extra protection over the HBT jacket, and had 4 pockets for the soldier to carry his extra gear.
Many American D-Day soldiers also carried M1928 haversacks, a sort of pack that enabled soldiers to store all the other gear they were issued for survival in the field. Soldiers were also issued JQMD cartridge belts for storing ammunition for their service rifles.
Protection
Starting at the top, American soldiers were issued M1 helmets, steel helmets that afforded protection against shrapnel, flying debris, and small arms fire.
Soldiers might also be carrying a “gas brassard,” a special armband that would change color in the presence of toxic gas like mustard gas. In addition, soldiers would likely be carrying their M7 assault gas masks, in the event of a gas attack from the Germans.
Since this was an amphibious assault, soldiers would also likely be carrying a life belt, a special flotation device that was more compact and portable than a true life vest. The life belt was intended to be worn under the armpits (not around the waist, as some soldiers assumed) so that it would keep a soldier’s head above the water if he fell in or was struck unconscious.
Weapons and Tools
The standard issue battle rifle of the time was the M1 Garand, carried by most soldiers, and protected by a special waterproof covering prior to the landing. The rifle would likely be equipped with a sling and an M1 Garand bayonet and scabbard would also likely have been issued. Soldiers might also be carrying an M1911 in a pistol belt.
In addition to these weapons, D-Day soldiers carried a variety of tools, including but not limited to M-1910 T-handled shovels, used for entrenching and general utility, M-1910 pick mattocks, and a variety of other personal items such as first aid kits, canteens and covers, and a variety of canvas pouches used for storing gear.
For More Information on WW2 US Uniforms
Want to see more of the gear that American D-Day soldiers carried upon landing? To explore a full range of reproduction WW2 US uniforms, tools, field gear, and weapon related items, check out (and bookmark) At The Front.
At The Front manufactures and sells a wide variety of high-quality reproduction WW2 gear, both American and German, some of it made in the United States, but all of it exhibiting uncommonly high quality. Additionally, they carry a few original items in their inventory as well. For more information visit their website or get in touch with them directly.
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