Description
Book SynopsisIn World War II, the U.S. Army not only supplied its soldiers with the most modern equipment and uniforms, suitable for any combat situation, but went as far as providing them with their favourite drinks or candy bars.
A comprehensive reference book bringing together all the equipment issued to American soldiers in the European Theater of Operations, 1943–45. Each item is presented with its catalog numbers, described in detail and fully depicted in photographs. Graphics and diagrams offer additional information and context. There are chapters on everything from uniform, insignia, and small arms issued to the individual, through crew-served weapons, rations, tents, to sports and recreation equipment. There is full coverage of the specialist items issued to Airborne, Armored, and Mountain troops, engineers, signallers, Military Police, medics, chaplains and female personnel. From the chewing gum included in K rations through to artillery-laying equipment, mess trays to portable altars and field harmoniums, this photographic reference gives a unique insight into the world of the U.S. Army in World War II.
As a complete catalogue with high-quality photographs, this book is invaluable to both family historians researching grandpa's kit found in the attic and to assist collectors in their quest to find authentic items among the reproductions that flood the modern market.
Trade ReviewHenri’s incredibly exhaustive research has resulted in definitive illustrated guides to GI gear ‘so that the sacrifice of those who fought for the liberation of Europe is not forgotten.’ Readers will be rewarded with a mother lode of photos and data vital for historians, militaria collectors, model makers, and toy soldier and model figure enthusiasts. * Toy Soldier Collector *
These books will appeal to a range of interests in the World War 2 US Army. This spectrum will include museum curators, reenactors, and collectors of various themes such as insignia, uniforms etc. The author has done a great service and he should be highly commended for his efforts. Just saying “well done you have produced two brilliant books” is a massive understatement. * Military Archive Research *
An incredible collection of photos… The amount of time it must have taken to assemble and photograph everything is likewise incalculable. * The Historical Miniatures Gaming Society 26/10/2022 *
First class reference ...packed with fantastic detail. * Military Model Scene *
Table of ContentsPreface Introduction: The United States Army 1. Insignia and Decorations 2. Uniforms 3. Individual Equipment 4. Small Arms and Crew-Served Light Weapons 5. Tentage, Sleeping and Bivouac Equipment 6. Armored Troops 7. Airborne Troops 8. Mountain Troops 9. Female Personnel 10. Military Police 11. Army Rations 12. The Corps of Engineers 13. The Signal Corps 14. Chemical Warfare 15. The Medical Department 16. Army Chaplains 17. Army Publications and Other Printed Material 18. Sports and Recreation 19. Personal Items 20. Trophies and Souvenirs Abbreviations Index Bibliography Acknowledgements