The military uniform has always had and still has some similarities with ordinary civilian clothing worn at a given time. In those states where there was a caste structure, the clothing of the Warrior caste was also the uniform of the army. Generally speaking, initially every man capable of bearing arms was a warrior and went to war in the dress that he always wore; specifically military armor was very primitive and varied. However, the desire to distinguish one's troops from the enemy's from afar, as far as possible, led already in ancient times to the fact that the armed forces tried to have one-color clothes or at least distinctive signs with a variety of clothes. If any branch of the army had permanent and honorable significance, it also received distinctive signs of its dignity (for example, a detachment of “immortals” or the guard of the Persian kings). Proper uniforms, according to military historians, began in Sparta, but this was only a consequence of the peculiar structure of the entire Spartan life: the regulations that prescribed the rules of washing, the schedule of dishes at lunch, etc., could not but affect such an important event as a performance to war, and did not provide the color of clothing most convenient for this purpose - and the Spartans chose red so that the blood flowing from their wounds would be less noticeable and would not confuse the faint-hearted.
The convenience of uniform uniforms could not help but be realized by other Greeks, and after them by the Romans. The Roman legions have something like a uniform in the modern sense: white clothes, uniform weapons and armor, and multi-colored feathers on the helmets, distinguishing the legion from the legion. In the Middle Ages, strictly speaking, there was no army, since it was made up of vassals and their squires and warriors; there could be no question of any uniformity in the form of uniforms, but everyone wore the distinctive insignia of their master; The cut of the clothes was also approximately the same, depending on the rank.
World War 2 military uniform
The clothing of the rich barons and their servants was distinguished by luxury, which was the subject of rivalry between them. At that time, military uniform should actually be understood as the military armor in which they went into battle. Later, when mercenary detachments appear, a desire is noticed on the part of their commanders to dress their squads in the same way; These gangs sometimes received their names based on the color that predominated in their costume. At the beginning of modern times, standing armies were gradually established, the maintenance of which in all respects fell on the government.
The end of the 17th and the entire 18th centuries were marked by long and bloody wars between the main states of Europe; Much attention was paid to the army at this time. This was also reflected in the uniform of the troops, which, especially in the guard, became fabulously beautiful, uncomfortable and expensive. The uniforms in France and the states that were under its influence were distinguished by the greatest luxury. The Prussian and Swedish troops were dressed more modestly than others. The French Revolution and the wars that followed it, and then the constant growth of armies under the influence of the development of militarism, led to the simplification and reduction in cost of uniforms. Currently, everywhere there is a noticeable desire to bring the Uniform to the point that it is comfortable, durable, easy to fit, suits climatic conditions and does not greatly burden the soldier with its care. The most beautiful and varied of the forms in all states belonged to the cavalry, while the local and auxiliary troops had the most modest. The uniform must satisfy the condition of distinguishing one part of the troops from another, so that the serviceman’s belonging to his unit is completely obvious; this is necessary both to maintain discipline and to develop solidarity between the ranks of one unit. More than ever, it is necessary to equip troops since the principle was proclaimed that states fight through their armed forces, and not the entire population. The requirement that the enemy be open obliges the combatants to wear a uniform that distinguishes them from a distance from civilians and at the same time has features that could not be quickly and conveniently hidden. The people's militia may wear a variety of Uniforms, but must have badges that are distinguishable at least at gun range
The SS troops belonged to the SS organization; service in them was not considered state service, even if it was legally equivalent to such. The military uniform of SS soldiers is quite recognizable all over the world; most often this black uniform is associated with the organization itself. It is known that the uniforms for SS employees during the Holocaust were sewn by prisoners of the Buchenwald concentration camp.
History of the SS military uniform
Initially, soldiers of the SS troops (also “Waffen SS”) wore gray uniforms, very similar to the uniform of stormtroopers of the regular German army. In 1930, the same, well-known, black uniform was introduced, which was supposed to emphasize the difference between the troops and the rest and determine the elitism of the unit. By 1939, SS officers received a white dress uniform, and from 1934, a gray one was introduced, intended for field battles. The gray military uniform differed from the black one only in color.
Additionally, SS soldiers were entitled to a black overcoat, which, with the introduction of the gray uniform, was replaced by a double-breasted, respectively, gray overcoat. High-ranking officers were allowed to wear their overcoat unbuttoned by the top three buttons so that the colored distinctive stripes were visible. Subsequently, holders of the Knight's Cross received the same right (in 1941), who were allowed to display the award.
The Waffen SS women's uniform consisted of a gray jacket and skirt, as well as a black cap with the SS eagle.
A black ceremonial club jacket with the symbols of the organization for officers was also developed.
It should be noted that in fact the black uniform was the uniform of the SS organization specifically, and not the troops: only SS members had the right to wear this uniform; transferred Wehrmacht soldiers were not allowed to use it. By 1944, the wearing of this black uniform was officially abolished, although in fact by 1939 it was used only on special occasions.
Distinctive features of the Nazi uniform
The SS uniform had a number of distinctive features that are easily remembered even now, after the disbandment of the organization:
- The SS emblem of two German "Sig" runes was used on uniform insignia. Only ethnic Germans - Aryans - were allowed to wear runes on their uniforms; foreign members of the Waffen SS did not have the right to use this symbolism.
- “Death's Head” - at first, a metal round cockade with the image of a skull was used on the cap of SS soldiers. Later it was used on the buttonholes of soldiers of the 3rd Tank Division.
- The red armband with a black swastika on a white background was worn by members of the SS and stood out significantly against the background of the black dress uniform.
- The image of an eagle with outstretched wings and a swastika (formerly the coat of arms of Nazi Germany) eventually replaced skulls on cap badges and began to be embroidered on the sleeves of uniforms.
The Waffen SS camouflage pattern differed from the Wehrmacht camouflage. Instead of the conventional pattern design with parallel lines applied, creating the so-called “rain effect,” woody and plant patterns were used. Since 1938, the following camouflage elements of the SS uniform have been adopted: camouflage jackets, reversible covers for helmets and face masks. On camouflage clothing it was necessary to wear green stripes indicating rank on both sleeves, however, for the most part this requirement was not observed by officers. During campaigns, a set of stripes was also used, each of which denoted one or another military qualification.
Rank insignia on SS uniform
The ranks of Waffen SS soldiers did not differ from the ranks of Wehrmacht employees: the differences were only in form. The uniform used the same distinctive signs, such as shoulder straps and embroidered buttonholes. SS officers wore insignia with the symbols of the organization both on shoulder straps and in buttonholes.
The shoulder straps of SS officers had a double backing, the upper one differing in color depending on the type of troops. The backing was edged with a silver cord. On the shoulder straps there were signs of belonging to one or another unit, metal or embroidered with silk threads. The shoulder straps themselves were made of gray braid, while their lining was invariably black. The bumps (or “stars”) on the shoulder straps, designed to indicate the officer’s rank, were bronze or gilded.
The buttonholes featured runic “zigs” on one, and rank insignia on the other. The employees of the 3rd Panzer Division, which was nicknamed "Death's Head" instead of "zig", had an image of a skull, which was previously worn as a cockade on the cap of SS men. The edges of the buttonholes were edged with twisted silk cords, and for generals they were covered with black velvet. They also used it to line the general's caps.
Video: SS form
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In addition to the external, visual component of the form, the functional component is also important. A soldier of any country on the battlefield must be comfortably and practically equipped.
According to art critic M.R. Kirsanova, in war they recognize friend and foe by their uniform. S. V. Struchev, costume designer, complements this statement with the following: “So that you can see who to shoot at. Because the contact between the shooter and the enemy is visual.”
USSR
The soldiers of the Red Army were perfectly equipped at any time of the year. In summer, caps and helmets were used. The most common helmet was the SSH-40. Semyon Budyonny participated in its creation, testing the helmet by hitting a saber and firing a revolver. In winter, hats with earflaps were introduced with earflaps that protected the neck and ears from the frost. The lightweight uniform also included cotton tunics with breast welt pockets and trousers. A backpack or duffel bag was used for storage. They drank water from glass caps suspended in a bag from a belt. Grenades were also worn on the belt - in special bags. In addition, the uniform included a bag for a gas mask and cartridges. Ordinary Red Army soldiers wore raincoats that could be used as raincoats. In winter, the uniform was complemented by a short fur coat or a padded jacket with a padded jacket, fur mittens, felt boots and cotton pants.
The Red Army uniform seemed to have been thought out to the smallest detail: the 1942 model duffel bag even had a compartment for an ax. This is how one of the Red Army soldiers described the condition of his clothes in a letter: “My clothes are pretty shabby and are of no value for the house.” And this is how Professor P. M. Shurygin, a participant in the Battle of Rzhev, commented on the army uniform: “Soon we will get quilted trousers, padded jackets, and warm underwear. They will give you felt boots with snow. The material is good quality, so you wonder where so much of this wonderful material comes from.” From the memories it is clear that the Red Army uniform was of high quality and practical. Numerous pockets and bags for ammunition greatly facilitated combat operations.
Germany
The uniforms of German soldiers were sewn at the Hugo Boss factory. It included: a steel helmet with a double-sided cover, an overcoat, a gas mask case, a sword belt, rifle pouches, a raincoat, and a bowler hat. The Wehrmacht uniform was complete for European territory. The frosty Eastern Front required a completely different approach. During the first winter, the soldiers were freezing. By the second, changes had occurred, and insulated jackets, quilted trousers, as well as woolen gloves, sweaters and socks were introduced into the uniform. But this was not enough.
Despite the fact that the Soviet uniform was much heavier and easier to manufacture, it was considered more suitable for military operations in winter. Reenactor of the Eastern Frontier club Yuri Girev comments on the difference in the uniforms of the key powers as follows: “The uniform of a Red Army soldier was much warmer than the uniform of the Germans. Our soldiers wore cowhide boots on their feet. Boots with tapes were used more often.” One of the German representatives of the Wehrmacht wrote in a message to loved ones: “Driving through Gumrak, I saw a crowd of our retreating soldiers, they trudged along in a wide variety of uniforms, wrapping all sorts of items of clothing around themselves, just to keep warm. Suddenly one soldier falls into the snow, others pass by indifferently.”
Britannia
British soldiers wore a field uniform: a collared blouse or wool shirt, a steel helmet, loose trousers, a gas mask bag, a holster on a long belt, black boots and an overcoat. By the beginning of World War II, a new uniform was adopted. The regular units of the British army were the last to receive it, because it was necessary to equip recruits and those whose clothes had already lost their decent appearance. As the war progressed, minor changes occurred, during which the collar and other elements of clothing received a lining to prevent the rough twill from rubbing, and buckles began to be produced with teeth.
It was not uncommon for British soldiers to wear a heavy down-lined tropal raincoat. To keep warm, they wore knitted balaclavas under their helmets. Russian historian Igor Drogovoz appreciated the British uniform: “The uniform of soldiers and officers of the British army became a role model for all armies of Europe. The entire European military class very soon began to dress in khaki jackets, and Soviet soldiers took Berlin in boots with tapes in 1945.”
USA
The uniform of American soldiers is objectively considered the most comfortable and thoughtful in the conditions of the Second World War. They were guided by it when developing uniforms even in the post-war period. The uniform included a woolen shirt, a light field jacket, trousers with linen leggings, low brown boots, a helmet or cap. So many things have replaced the twill jumpsuit. All clothing of US soldiers differed in functionality: the jacket was fastened with a zipper and buttons, and was equipped with cut pockets on the sides. The best equipment for the Americans was the Arctic set, consisting of a warm parka jacket and fur-lined lace-up boots. The command of the US Armed Forces is convinced that the American soldier has the best equipment. One of the Red Army soldiers spoke of their shoes with special respect: “What good laced boots they had!”
Japan
During World War II, the Japanese had three types of uniforms. Each of them included a uniform, trousers, an overcoat and a cape. For warm weather there is a cotton version, for cold weather - wool. The uniform set also included a helmet, boots or boots. For Japanese soldiers, winter operations included clashes in northern China, Manchuria, and Korea. The most insulated uniform was used for combat operations in these places. Naturally, it was not suitable for the harsh climate, because it consisted of overcoats with fur cuffs, quilted woolen trousers, and long johns. In general, it is difficult to call Japanese uniforms functional. It was suitable only for certain latitudes with a tropical climate.
Italy
Italian soldiers during World War II wore a shirt and tie, a single-breasted jacket with a waist belt, tapered trousers with rolls or woolen socks, and ankle boots. Some soldiers found it more convenient to wear breeches. The uniform was not suitable for winter campaigns. The overcoat was made from cheap, coarse cloth, which did not provide any warmth in the cold. The army was not equipped with winter clothing. Only representatives of the mountain troops had insulated options. The Italian newspaper Province of Como noted in 1943 that only a tenth of the soldiers during their stay in Russia were equipped with suitable uniforms. In their memoirs, the soldiers wrote that at times the temperature reached minus 42 degrees, so many died due to frostbite, and not during military operations. Statistics from the Italian command report that in the first winter alone, 3,600 soldiers suffered from hypothermia.
France
French soldiers fought in colored uniforms. They were dressed in single-breasted tunics with buttons, double-breasted overcoats with side pocket flaps. The coat tails could be buttoned back to make walking easier. The clothes had belt loops. Foot troops wore breeches with windings. There were three types of headdresses. The most popular was the cap. Hadrian's helmets were also actively worn. Their distinctive feature is the presence of an emblem on the front. Apart from its appearance, this helmet could hardly boast of anything else. It did not provide protection from bullets. In very cold weather, the French uniform expanded its range to a sheepskin coat. Such clothing can hardly be called optimal for different weather conditions.
The best uniform of American soldiers became the prototype for all modern field clothing. It was distinguished by functionality and thoughtful appearance. They didn’t freeze in it, and this was one of the decisive factors in the war.
In accordance with the Hague Conventions, wearing military uniform during hostilities or armed conflicts is a necessary condition for defining military personnel as legal combatants with all the special rights arising from this status. At the same time, a mandatory element of the military uniform is insignia, which clearly indicates membership in the armed forces of one or another side of the armed conflict. The people's militia participating in such conflicts may wear a variety of uniforms, but must have distinguishable signs (bandages, crosses, etc.) at least at a shooting distance.
Front-line soldier
Corporal (1) in a 1943 model uniform. The insignia from the buttonholes has been transferred to the shoulder straps. The SSh-40 helmet became widespread since 1942. At about the same time, submachine guns began to arrive in large quantities to the troops. This corporal is armed with a 7.62 mm Shpagin submachine gun - PPSh-41 - with a 71-round drum magazine. Spare magazines in pouches on the waist belt next to a pouch for three hand grenades. In 1944, along with the drum magazine for the PPSh-41, a 35-round open-arm magazine began to be produced, also suitable for the PPS-43. Horn magazines were carried in pouches in three compartments. Grenades were usually carried in pouches on the waist belt.
By the beginning of the war, there were pouches for one grenade, in this case the F-1 (Za) grenade is shown. More practical pouches for three grenades appeared later; a pouch with a fragmentation grenade RG-42 (Зb) is shown. The pouches with two compartments were intended for high-explosive RGD-33 grenades; the grenade with a fragmentation ring (Zs) is shown here. The 1942 model duffel bag had a design that was simple to the point of primitiveness.
Each compartment had an ax, which was carried by one of the soldiers on a waist belt in a special case (5). A new type of pot (6), similar to the German model. Enamel mug (7). Due to the shortage of aluminum, glass flasks with a cork stopper were found among the troops (8). The glass of the flask could be green or brown, or transparent. The flasks were hung from the waist belt using a fabric cover. The BN gas mask was equipped with a conversation box and an improved TSh filter (9). Gas mask bag with two side pockets for spare eyepiece glasses and a pencil with anti-fog compound. The pouch for spare ammunition was hung on the back to the waist belt and could hold six standard five-round rounds (10).
Rookie
Private (1 and 2) in a summer field uniform, model 1936. with insignia of the 1941 model. Helmet of the 1936 model and boots with windings. Field equipment of the 1936 model, almost all equipment of this type was lost in the first year of fighting. The equipment includes a duffel bag, a roll with an overcoat and a raincoat, a food bag, cartridge pouches with two compartments, a sapper shovel, a flask and a gas mask bag. The Red Army soldier is armed with a 7.62 mm Mosin rifle, model 1891/30. The bayonet is attached in the opposite direction for ease of carrying. Shown are a bakelite medallion (3), a sapper's shovel with a cover (4), an aluminum flask with a cover (5), a bandoleer for 14 rifle clips (6). Later, instead of leather equipment, canvas equipment was produced. Two five-round clips (7) were placed in each compartment of the cartridge pouch. The idle pot (8) served both as a saucepan and as a bowl. Boots (9) with windings (10). BS gas mask with bag (11). The protrusion between the eye sockets made it possible to wipe the fogged glass from the inside and clear the nose. The gas mask was equipped with a T-5 filter.
German corporal uniform (non-commissioned officer), 1939-1940
01 - M-35 field jacket with non-commissioned officer insignia, 02 - M-35 steel helmet with Heeres markings, 03 - Zeltbahn M-31 camouflage fabric tent "Splittermuster", 04 - gray ("Steingrau") trousers, 05 - leather belt, 06 - filter bags for gas mask, 07 - M-38 gas mask, 08 - M-24 grenade, 09 - black leather pouch, 10 - M-31 aluminum bowler hat, 11 - boots, 12 - 7, 92 mm Mauser 98k, 13 - Seitengewehr 84/98 bayonet, 14 - sapper blade.
Lieutenant's uniform of the 82nd Airborne Sicily, 1943
01 - M2 helmet with camouflage net, 02 - M1942 jacket, 03 - M1942 trousers, 04 - M1934 wool shirt, 05 - boots, 06 - M1936 Loading belt with M1916 holster for Colt M1911 and pistol, 07 - M1936 shoulder straps, 08 - Carbine М1А1, 09 - M2A1 gas mask, 10 - M1910 folding shovel, 11 - M1942 bowler hat, 12 - M1910 bag, 13 - dog tags, 14 - M1918 Mk I knife, 15 - M1936 backpack.
Luftwaffe uniform Hauptmann (captain), FW-190-A8 pilot, Jagdgeschwader 300 "Wild Sau", Germany 1944
01 - LKP N101 headphones, 02 - Nietzsche & Gunter Fl. 30550 points, 03 - Drager model 10-69 oxygen mask, 04 - Hankart, 05 - AK 39Fl. compass, 06 - 25 mm Walter Flarepistol M-43 with ammunition on the belt, 07 - holster, 08 - FW-190 parachute, 09 - aviation boots, 10 - M-37 Luftwaffe breeches, 11 - Luftwaffe leather jacket with Hauptmann and Luftwaffe emblem bandage.
Private ROA (Vlasov's army), 1942-45
01 - Dutch field jacket with ROA on buttonholes and shoulder straps, Heeres eagle on the right chest, 02 - M-40 trousers, 03 - medallion, 04 - M-34 cap with ROA, 05 - boots, 06 - M-42 gaiters, 07 - Grman unloading belt with pouch, 08 - M-24 grenade, 09 - M-31 bowler hat, 10 - Bayonet, 11 - M-39 straps, 12 - M-35 helmet with camouflage net, 13 - “New Life” magazine for "Eastern" volunteers, 14 - 7.62 mm Mosin 1891/30
US Army Infantry Uniform 1942-1945
01 - M1 helmet, 02 - M1934 shirt, 03 - M1934 sweatshirt, 04 - M1941 trousers, 05 - boots, 06 - M1938 leggings, 07 - M1926 lifebuoy, 08 - M1937 ammunition belt, 09 - M1924 personal care products, 10 - M1910 bowler hat, 11 - gas mask, 12 - M1918A2 Browning Automatic Rifle with M1907 belt, 13 - stripes, 14 and 15 - manuals, 16 - sleeve badges: A - 1st Armored, B - 2nd, C - 3- I am Infantry, E is 34th, F is 1st Infantry.
Kriegsmarine (navy) Matrosengefreiter, 1943
01 - naval jacket, Iron Cross 2nd class, veteran crew badge on the left chest, Matrosengefreiter insignia 02 - Kriegsmarine cap, 03 - naval peacoat, 04 - "deck" trousers, 05 - "Signal" magazine, July 1943 , 06 - tobacco, 07 - cigarette paper, 08 - “Hygenischer Gummischutz-Dublosan”, 09 - boots.
Major of the maintenance unit of the 1st Polish Armored Division, Germany, 1945
01 - M 37/40 casual uniform, 02 - black shoulder strap of the 1st Armored Division, 03 - 1st Div badge, 04 - Silver cross from the Virtuti Militari, 05 - M 37 shoulder straps, 06 - 11.43 mm Colt M1911 pistol, 07 - officer's boots, 08 - leather vest, 09 - drivers' gloves, 10 - helmet for driving armored units, 11 - AT Mk II motorcycle helmet, 12 - Mk II helmet, 12 - leggings.
Private, Luftwaffe, France, 1944
01 - M-40 helmet, 02 - Einheitsfeldmütze M-43 cap, 03 - M-43 camouflage T-shirt “Sumpftarnmuster”, 04 - trousers, 05 - shoulder straps, 06 - 7.92 mm Mauser 98k rifle, 07 - M-31 breadbag , 08 - M-31 bowler hat, 09 - M-39 boots, 10 - medallion, 11 - “Esbit” pocket heater.
Lieutenant's uniform, RSI "Decima MAS", Italy, 1943-44
01 - "Basco" beret, 02 - model, 1933 helmet, 03 - model, 1941 flight jacket, leutenant badges on cuffs, lapel badges, 04 - German belt, 05 - Beretta 1933 pistol and holster, 06 - German M-24 grenade, 07 - 9 mm TZ-45 SMG, 08 - pouches, 09 - trousers, 10 - German mountain boots, 11 - badge of participation in the Folgore company.
8 SS-Kavallerie division "Florian Geyer", summer 1944
01 - M-40 Feldmutze cap, 02 - M-40 helmet with SS badges, 03 - field jacket 44 - new cut, cavalry badges on shoulder straps, 04 - trousers, 05 - M-35 belt, 06 - wool shirt, 07 - M-39 shoulder straps, 08 - “Florian Geyer” bandage, 09 - woolen gloves, 10 - Panzerfaust 60, 11 - 7.92 mm Sturmgewehr 44, 12 - M-84/98 bayonet, 13 - canvas pouches, 14 - M- 24 grenades, 15 - Waffen SS salary card, 16 - M-31 bowler hat, 17 - M-43 leather boots, 18 - Leggings.
Captain (Kapitanleutnant) - submarine commander, 1941
01 - officer's jacket, Kapitanleutnant insignia, 02 - Kninght Cross of the Iron Cross, 03 - submarine insignia, 04 - Unofficial insignia of the 1st and 9th U-boat flotillas, 05 - cigarette cap of Kriegsmarine officers -, 06, 07 - leather gloves, 08 - leather coat "U-Boot-Päckchen", 09 - boots, 10 - "Junghans", 11 - naval binoculars.
Partisan of the Peasant Battalion (Bataliony Chlopskie), Poland, 1942
01 - wz.1937 “rogatywka” cap, 02 - jacket, 03 - trousers, 04 - boots, 05 - improvised bandage, 06 - 9 mm MP-40 SMG.
01 - canvas hat with headphones, 02 - model 1935 cap with a red star, 03 - linen overalls, 04 - canvas bag for a gas mask, 05 - officer boots, 06 - holster for 7.62 mm Nagant, 07 - leather tablet. , 08 - officer's belt.
Polish infantry uniform, 1939
01 - wz.1939 "rogatywka" cap, 02 - wz.1937 "rogatywka" cap, 03 - wz.1937 steel helmet, 04 - wz.1936 jacket, 05 - badge, 06 - WSR wz.1932 gas mask in a canvas bag, 07 - hygiene products, 08 - leather pouches, 09 - wz.1933 breadbag, 10 - leather unloading belt, 11 - wz.1938 bowler hat, 12 - wz.1928 bayonet, 13 - folding shovel in a leather case, 14 - wz.1933 backpack with blanket, 15 - biscuits, 16 - wz.1931 combination bowler, 17 - spoon + fork set, 18 - owijacze fabric belts used instead of socks, 19 - boots, 20 - GR-31 fragmentation grenade, 21 - GR -31 offensive grenades, 22 - 7.92 mm Mauser 1898a rifle, 23 - 7.92 mm cartridge clips, 24 - WZ. 1924 bayonet.
Private, Red Army, 1939-41
01 — Ushanka hat, 02 — coat, 03 — felt boots, 04 — belt, 05 — 7.62 mm Tokarev SVT-40 rifle, 06 — bayonet, 07 — ammunition, 08 — gas mask bag, 09 — folding shovel.
NKVD lieutenant, 1940-41
01 - model 1935 NKVD cap, 02 - model 1925 NKVD tunic, 03 - dark blue cloth trousers with crimson piping, 04 - boots, 05 - waist belt, 06 - holster for Nagan 1895 revolver, 07 - model 1932 officer's tablet, 08 — NKVD Badge installed in 1940, 09 — Red Star badge, 10 — military ID, 11 — cartridges for a revolver.
01 - model 1940 steel helmet, 02 - padded jacket, 03 - field trousers, 04 - boots, 05 - 7.62 mm Mosin 91/30 rifle, 06 - rifle oiler, 07 - model 1930 bandolier, 09 - military ID, 10 - tablet.
01 - model 1943 "tunic" sweatshirt, officer version, 02 - model, 1935 breeches, 03 - model, 1935 Cap, 04 - model, 1940 helmet, 05 - model, 1935 officer's belt and shoulder straps, 06 - holster for Nagant, 1895 , 07 - tablet, 08 - officer's boots.
Red Intelligence Officer, 1943
01 - model 1935 cap, 02 - camouflage clothing, autumn, 03 - 7.62 mm PPS-43, 04 - canvas bag for ammunition, 05 - officer's belt 1935, 06 - leather case with 7.62mm TT Pistol, 07 - model , 1940 knife, 08 — Adrianov’s compass, 10 — officer’s boots.
If you do not take into account the dress uniform, the most important component of military uniform is its functionality. During combat operations, the soldier must be supplied uniforms and equipment with convenience and practicality in mind. Since ancient times, they have recognized their own and others by their uniform. There is only one goal - so that you can see where to shoot and recognize your comrades and the enemy.
In ancient times, when a warrior’s uniform was elaborate and replete with decorations and decoration elements, there were funny cases. A historical fact is the case of the partisan of the Patriotic War of 1812 Denis Davydov. The peasants, who had little understanding of uniforms, mistook his detachment for French marauders or provisions masters and fought back, which almost cost the lives of the brave partisan and his subordinates. It was all about the hussar uniform, which was similar to the French hussar uniform. After this, Denis Davydov was forced to change into a Cossack, which was the uniform of the Russian Cossacks.
During Second World War the army personnel of the warring parties were equipped in accordance with the traditions and economic capabilities of a particular state. It should be noted that uniforms and equipment changed depending on the time of year and theaters of combat.
Workers' and Peasants' Red Army
On equipment and uniforms Red Army soldiers were affected by the Winter (Soviet-Finnish) War of 1939-1940. It was during the fighting on the Karelian Isthmus and north of Lake Ladoga that it turned out that the Red Army soldiers were not equipped for winter conditions. “The equipment of the troops, primarily the rifle troops, did not correspond to the conditions of a winter, and even one as severe as the last one. There were few felt boots, short fur coats and mittens; the old helmet turned out to be unsuitable for wearing in extreme cold and needed to be replaced with a hat with earflaps.”
The soldiers of the Red Army were equipped taking into account the time of year. In summer, caps and helmets were used. The most common was the steel helmet. In the initial period of the war, the old SSh-40 helmet was still used, which had an overlay on its top. It was designed to protect the head from a saber strike. According to legend, Marshal of the Soviet Union Semyon Mikhailovich Budyonny took part in its development. However, it was replaced by a lighter and more comfortable steel helmet. The war showed. As for saber attacks, the enemy will not be able to do so.
The personnel of the rifle units wore cowhide boots or boots with canvas windings. During mass mobilization, cowhide boots were replaced with tarpaulin ones.
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0 - Red Army soldiers during the fighting in Stalingrad
2 - Red Army soldiers at the end of the war
In winter, hats with earflaps were introduced with earflaps that protected the neck and ears from the frost. The lightweight uniform also included cotton tunics with breast welt pockets, trousers, and a cloth overcoat with hooks. The overcoat was adjusted taking into account its wear on a quilted padded jacket.
For storage property a backpack or duffel bag was used. However, even during the Finnish campaign, it was noted that there were not enough backpacks for supplies, which were more convenient as an element of equipment. But its production (leather or tarpaulin was used) was expensive. Therefore, the soldiers of the rifle units were equipped with duffel bags.
Water was carried in an aluminum flask. To save aluminum, flasks of the same shape began to be made from bottle glass with a plugged (rather than screwed) cap. These flasks are also suspended in a bag from a belt. But they had neither convenience nor practicality. At the end of the Great Patriotic War, their production was almost curtailed.
Grenades and cartridges were worn on the belt - in special pouches. In addition, the uniform included a bag for a gas mask. The Red Army soldiers wore raincoats, which could be used to construct individual and group tents. The tent included an aluminum stake and a roll of hemp rope. In winter, the uniform was supplemented with a short fur coat, a padded jacket or padded jacket, fur mittens, felt boots and cotton pants.
Thus, the Red Army uniform seemed to have been thought out to the smallest detail: the 1942 model duffel bag even had a compartment for an ax. From the documents it follows that the uniform of the Red Army soldier was of high quality and practical. Numerous pockets and bags for ammunition greatly facilitated combat operations.
Army of Nazi Germany (Wehrmacht)
Field uniform The Wehrmacht soldier included: a steel helmet with a double-sided cover, an overcoat, a gas mask case, a sword belt, rifle or machine gun pouches, a raincoat, and a bowler hat. A leather satchel was used to store property. German soldiers wore leather boots. Moreover, by the beginning of Germany’s attack on the Soviet Union, the leather and shoe industries of all Europe worked for the needs of the Third Reich. The Wehrmacht uniforms were produced at the Hugo Boss factory and were complete for European territories. The plan for a lightning war did not include the provision of warm clothes (fur coats, fur products, felted boots and hats). The Eastern Front with its frosts required a completely different approach. During the first winter, the soldiers were freezing.
The first thing that saves you from frost is warm clothing. Troops, provided with seasonal uniforms, are able to withstand any frost. Analyzing the memories of German military personnel dating back to this period, you understand how unsatisfactorily the Wehrmacht army was provided for, facing the winter of 1941. “The lack of warm clothing became our main problem in the next few months and caused our soldiers a lot of suffering...” recalls the commander of the 2nd Tank Army (group), Colonel General G. Guderian.
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1 - Wehrmacht soldiers in summer uniform 1941
2 - Wehrmacht soldiers in winter uniforms after 1943.
By the second winter, changes had occurred. IN uniform Insulated jackets, quilted trousers, as well as wool gloves, sweaters and socks were introduced. But this was not enough. To solve the problem of supplying troops with warm uniforms and shoes and to save their soldiers from the cold, the troops began to make straw boots that were worn over regular boots. However, in the memoirs of German soldiers, which have now appeared on bookshelves, one can find a comparative assessment of the uniforms of Soviet and German soldiers. This assessment was not in favor of the latter's uniform. The most common complaints are about German soldiers' overcoats, which are made from fabric that is not suitable for any frost due to its low wool content.
Royal British Forces
British soldiers did not have a single field uniform. It was different depending on the parts of the country that were part of the Commonwealth countries. The personnel of the dominion units had elements and distinctive features in their uniforms, including field uniforms. Field uniform included: a collared blouse or wool shirt, a steel helmet, loose trousers, a gas mask bag, a holster on a long belt, black boots and an overcoat (jacket). By the beginning of hostilities in Europe, a uniform was adopted that differed from the previous one in certain elements. In connection with the massive conscription of recruits, the uniform was simplified and became more universal.
During the war, minor changes occurred, in particular, the collar and other elements of clothing received a lining that prevented the rough twill from rubbing against exposed skin. Buckles began to be produced with teeth. Instead of boots, British soldiers were provided with boots with short windings. British soldiers had to wear a heavy down-lined "tropal" cloak. Knitted balaclavas were worn under helmets in cold weather. In the African desert, uniforms were lightweight and often consisted of shorts and short-sleeved shirts.
It should be noted that the British Army's uniforms were intended for the European Theater of Operations. When landing in Norway, soldiers of special units were provided with Arctic uniforms, but this was not widespread.
1 - Sergeant. Welsh Territorial Guard. England, 1940
2 - Sergeant. 1st Command, 1942
US Armed Forces
Field uniform American soldiers for many years was considered the most convenient and thoughtful in the conditions of the Second World War. The uniform included a woolen shirt, a light field jacket, trousers with linen gaiters, low brown boots, a helmet or cap. All clothing worn by US soldiers differed in functionality. The jacket was fastened with a zipper and buttons and was equipped with cut-out pockets on the sides. Allowed Americans to become the best equipment arctic kit, consisting of a warm parka jacket and lace-up boots with fur. The command of the US Armed Forces was convinced that the American soldier had the best equipment. This statement is controversial, however, it has its reason.
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3 - Officer of the 10th Mountain Division
Imperial Japanese Army
During the Second World War, the Japanese had three types of uniforms. Each of them included a uniform, trousers, an overcoat and a cape. For warm weather there is a cotton version, for cold weather - wool. The uniform set also included a helmet, boots or boots. Warm uniforms were provided to military personnel operating in northern China, Manchuria and Korea.
For a more severe climate, such uniforms were not suitable, because the uniform included overcoats with fur cuffs, quilted woolen trousers, and long johns. It was suitable only for certain latitudes with a tropical climate.
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2 - Japanese Army infantryman in tropical uniform.
Italian army
Outfit Italian soldiers were more suited to the southern European climate. For operations in the harsh weather conditions of 1941-943, the uniform of Italian military personnel was completely unsuitable. During World War II, soldiers of the Italian Armed Forces wore a shirt and tie, a single-breasted jacket with a waist belt, tapered trousers with tapered or woolen socks, and ankle boots. Some soldiers found it more convenient to wear breeches.
A uniform not suitable for winter campaigns. The overcoat was made of cheap, coarse cloth, which did not provide any warmth in the cold. The army was not equipped with winter clothing. Only representatives of the mountain troops had insulated options. The Italian newspaper Province of Como noted in 1943 that only a tenth of the soldiers during their stay in Russia were equipped with a suitable uniform.
Statistics from the Italian command report that in the first winter alone, 3,600 soldiers suffered from hypothermia.
1 - Private Army Group Albania
French Army
French soldiers fought in colored uniform. They were dressed in single-breasted tunics with buttons, double-breasted overcoats with side pocket flaps. The coat tails could be buttoned back to make walking easier. The clothes had belt loops. Foot troops wore breeches with windings. There were three types of headdresses. The most popular was the cap. Hadrian's helmets were also actively worn. Their distinctive feature is the presence of an emblem on the front.
In very cold weather, the French uniform expanded its range to a sheepskin coat. Such clothing can hardly be called optimal for different weather conditions.
1 - Private of the Free French Army
2 - Private of the Moroccan Free French troops
Determine which dress was exemplary difficult. Each army was provided depending on economic opportunities and planned regions of military operations. However, there were often miscalculations when the calculation was based on a lightning war, and the troops had to operate in severe cold conditions.