German Wehrmacht uniform. Military archeology

All camouflage of the Third Reich could be divided into two groups: camouflage used in the Wehrmacht and in the SS troops. At the same time, it was very easy to distinguish it; the Wehrmacht camouflage pattern included parallel lines - the so-called rain effect, and on the camouflage of the SS troops the “rain effect” was simply absent. Moreover, all camouflage patterns had “plant-woody” names based on the type of pattern: Eichenlaub (oak leaves), Platanen (sycamore leaves) and the like.

Currently, there is a fairly widespread misconception that the primacy in the use of camouflage uniforms belongs to the SS troops. Perhaps, with regard to specialized uniforms, the priority of these troops of Nazi Germany really exists, but the first camouflage capes appeared in the Italian army in 1929, and the famous camouflage cape “Zeltbahn” became generally accepted in the German army since 1931, that is, even before the creation of the Waffen-SS troops.

The earliest type of camouflage that the Germans used during World War II was Heerres-Splittermuster-31. Its appearance dates back to June 1930, when the triangular Dreieckszeltbahn cape appeared, which was replaced in the army in 1931 by the gray Viereckige Zeltbahn cape, which had a rectangular shape. Then the now famous “Zeltbahn-31” cape was born, which probably became the most popular camouflage uniform in the world. Almost all soldiers of the Wehrmacht, Luftwaffe, SS troops, Kriegsmarine coastal artillery and even police had these capes. These capes were distinguished by the presence of camouflage called “Heerres-Splittermuster”. The main characteristic of this camouflage was the small vertical strokes - “Strich”, which were applied over traditional camouflage spots. Moreover, the spots of different geometric shapes used on this camouflage belonged to various types of destructive camouflage, which was used during the First World War. As experts note, in practice this scheme was not particularly effective - at a distance, multi-colored spots simply merged into one color.

Raincoat-tent, cape “Zeltbahn-31”

Many researchers are not inclined to classify the Zeltbahn-31 cape as camouflage clothing, emphasizing that awnings and tents were very often built from them; at worst, they could be worn for protection from bad weather, but not for camouflage on the ground. At the same time, the opposite point of view, according to which capes were still used as camouflage clothing, is confirmed by numerous photographs, as well as the memories of the war veterans themselves.

It is worth noting that for a long time in Germany they simply did not think about producing a special camouflage uniform. In those years, khaki and its German counterpart, the field gray equivalent of feldgrau, were considered very practical throughout the world. However, the SS leadership considered that this camouflage was not enough. They needed a type of camouflage that would allow fighters not only to disappear into the background of various landscapes, but also would not lose its properties depending on different weather conditions and seasonal changes, for example, such as fallen yellowed leaves. As a result, the first versions of the new camouflage were tested by the Germania regiment in 1937, and in June 1938 they were personally approved by Himler.

Surprisingly, Zeltbahn-31 capes remained the only option for Wehrmacht (non-Waffen SS) camouflage clothing for almost a decade, until Tarnhemd jackets and Tarnhelmuberzug helmet covers began to appear in the troops in 1942. On one side, the jackets and covers had a camouflage pattern that was similar to that on the Zeltbahn-31 capes, and the other side was white, matching the color of the snow. Moreover, the appearance of camouflage in Wehrmacht units and formations was initiated precisely by the spread of camouflage in the SS troops.

Grenadiers of the SS Panzer Division "Totenkopf"

The camouflage jackets of the Wehrmacht and SS troops had a very loose cut, which made it possible to wear them over standard uniforms. Large vertical slits were made on the sides of the jackets, which provided access to equipment secured over the field uniform, and also provided access to the pockets of uniforms. At the lower part of the sleeves of this anorak blouse there were cuffs with elastic bands or laces, tabs, and drawstrings with a cord along the waist. The front slit could be laced from the middle of the chest to the throat; the collar on this blouse replaced the hood with a cord drawstring. The hem often turned up. Over time, spacious pockets with flaps with buttons were added to the anorak blouse, and they also decided to cover the chest slits with flaps. On the latest models - on the front and back shoulders, as well as on the sleeves - loops sewn with a ladder appeared, which were intended for attaching branches or tufts of grass to them for even greater camouflage on the ground.

Spotted blouses began to appear in the SS troops back in 1938, and gradually similar clothing, as well as camouflage jackets and shirts, were provided to units of all branches of the military in Germany. Anorak blouses, which were worn over the head over a jacket, were originally made from cotton fabric with a small addition of viscose. Since the neckline, cuffs and belt were tightened with laces, this gave the blouse a characteristic baggy appearance, this only enhanced the camouflage properties and protected the uniform, over which it was worn, from dirt and mechanical damage. Until 1940, the camouflage pattern was applied to the fabric manually using a stencil; this method significantly slowed down production, but when it was possible to transfer production to machine printing, production increased significantly. By June 1940, SS units received 32 thousand camouflage blouses, and another 30 thousand were issued by September of the same year.

Army camouflage blouses were made from tent fabric with a “blurry” or “splintered” pattern, with a white or beige reverse. In total, the SS troops had about 7 different types of camouflage patterns. Moreover, each was made in dark and light colors on both sides of the canvas. Most often, the pattern was a scattering of small spots with a round or irregular shape, with a blurred or clear outline. In general, the pattern looked like a carpet of fallen leaves against a background of grass or earth. Exactly the same finely spotted fabric was used for SS raincoats. After the German occupation of Italy in the second half of 1943, the Wehrmacht and SS units used Italian camouflage fabric, which was distinguished by a three-color large-spotted pattern. This camouflage could later be found on the Eastern Front, mainly in divisions that arrived from the West.

In addition, the SS troops often combined with a gray-green field jacket also camouflage cotton trousers, which were worn over cloth trousers or simply instead of them - they were part of a full camouflage suit along with a swing jacket. The pants had a counter flap with three buttons located on the codpiece, beveled pocket flaps, slightly shifted forward, which were fastened with a button, and there were drawstrings along the waist and the bottoms of the legs. The jacket that was included in this kit looked more like a field jacket, but with an open collar (there were other options), and the insignia of the SS units was not sewn onto it. However, a sleeve eagle and removable shoulder straps were allowed; in hot weather, a camouflage suit could be worn directly over underwear.

In addition, a special warm long jacket with a fur lining was created for the SS troops. The top of this jacket was covered with fabric with spots of green-brown tones, it had four warm outer pockets and a hood lined with fur. This jacket was supposed to be used in the cold season, but we were talking about the snowless period. Especially for winter, the camouflage consisted of gray, white and gray-blue tones, which were formed in the form of a splintered pattern.

Based on color, the camouflage used in SS units was divided into three main types: shades of green and crimson-brown for summer, dark gray and light gray for spring, brown and yellow for autumn. If we talk about the coloring itself, it was usually divided into 5 main types, which, one way or another, were associated with the plant world: “broad-leaved tree”, “palm tree”, “pea”, “splintered” and “oak leaves”. At the same time, as noted above, having approached the creation of a camouflage uniform with all German pedantry, the developers provided an option with turning the clothes outward, while the camouflage pattern on both sides was always different.

Caps and caps were also made from camouflage fabric in Germany, and warm hats were covered with special material, which was also used to sew spotted jackets. At the same time, the Waffen SS soldiers had their own covers for steel helmets, which were more expensive and of better quality than the covers of the Wehrmacht soldiers. Such covers consisted of 14 main parts-flaps, while ordinary army ones had only 5 parts. They were attached to the helmet using a special pocket that fit directly onto the visor and three spring hooks on both sides, as well as on the back. The fabric was also double-sided and had special belt loops (loops) designed to secure grass or branches. At the same time, some cases were additionally equipped with a fastening mask, which could hide the face of a sniper or observer. Winter versions of these masks were made of wool and cotton, which protected German soldiers from frostbite.

It is worth noting that almost all the uniforms of the SS military units completely or partially copied army samples and models, and were often simply taken or purchased from Wehrmacht warehouses. However, this did not apply to camouflage, in the field of which Himmler’s soldiers were considered real trendsetters.

Information sources:
http://warspot.ru/2820-drevesnye-lyagushki-gimmlera
http://panzerkrieg.narod.ru/uniform.htm
http://ciwar.ru/germaniya-xx-vek/soldaty-waffen-ss/uniforma-vojsk-ss
http://kopanina.rf/publ/16-1-0-167
http://kopanina.rf/publ/16-1-0-168

The Second World War, characterized by posterity as the war of engines. Despite the large number of mechanized units, cavalry units were also widely used in the German army. A huge share of supplies for the needs of the army was transported by horse units. Horse units were used in almost all units. During the war, the importance of cavalry increased greatly. Cavalry was widely used in courier service, reconnaissance, artillery, catering service and even in infantry units. On the Eastern Front, “no one can conquer our vast expanses and almost complete impassability,” there’s no place without a horse, and then there are the partisans, and horse units were also often used to fight them. The uniform for the mounted troops was the same as for the rest of the army with the addition of a few elements of clothing: the mounted troops received riding breeches and riding boots, rather than M 40 boots. and a jacket. On the chest there is a white eagle, later gray cotton was used, field gray shoulder straps with dark green piping were used until the end of the war.

The breeches remained unchanged throughout the war; the leather inserts in the seat area were painted dark gray or the original natural brown. Breeches were the same regardless of rank. Sometimes, instead of a leather insert in the seat area, double material was used. In riding boots, a longer shaft was used, and such a necessary attribute as spurs M31 spurs (Anschnallsporen).

The standard saddle during the war was the M25 (Armcesattel 25), a wooden frame covered in leather. Various harnesses were used on the saddle to transport anything; bags were attached to the front part, the left one for the horse (food, maintenance), the right one for personal kit.

Wehrmacht cavalry officer, uniform, Russia 1941-44

After the war with Russia unfolded, it became clear that the wear and tear of military uniforms would be higher than in other companies. An order from October 1939 states that clothing should be standard in a combat zone. Officers ordering uniforms individually modified the uniform only by adding the officer's insignia. The officer's uniform had a difference on the jacket sleeve cuffs, and the dark green color of the collar was the same as on pre-war examples. Silver trim on shoulder straps and collar tabs. has a more muted color.

The photo shows that the jacket has been converted from a soldier's jacket, and there are holes on the belt for the hooks of the ammunition kit.

German uniform, jacket converted from a soldier's

There were two types of standard signal pistol, the army model (Leuchtpistole - Heeres Modell - also known as Signalpistole) adopted in 1928, was one of two types used throughout the war: the long-barreled one was adopted from 1935. Cartridge, 2.7cm serrated for identification in the dark.

Germany invaded Russia on June 22, 1941, and the campaign plan called for the Red Army to be destroyed before winter set in. Despite the achievements and victories, by the beginning of winter, German troops were stuck near Moscow. At the end of November, the Red Army launched a counteroffensive, smashing and driving back the Germans. Slowly the counter-offensive weakens and the armies switch to positional battles. The winter of 1941 turned out to be very harsh and frosty. The German troops were completely unprepared for such a winter.

During peacetime, the supply of winter kits was limited. And even those were adequate only for winter in temperate climates, and not the icy horror of the winter of 1941 in Russia. Losses from frostbite very soon exceeded losses from combat wounds. And some tasks for the army are very specific, for example, a sentry or a reconnaissance outpost - they were especially dangerous, soldiers were exposed to frost for a long time, their limbs especially suffered. The troops improvised to survive, using captured Russian uniforms. They put paper and straw in their shoes and boots, and tried to wear as many layers of clothing as they could find.

to save from the frost they did this

In Germany, events were organized to collect warm and fur winter clothes to be sent to the front to freezing soldiers.

Watchcoat (Ubermantel) - an overcoat-woolen coat was introduced in November 1934 for vehicle drivers and sentries. It was available as one of the few frost control agents available, and was widely used during the first winter in Russia. The overcoat had increased dimensions and increased length. The collar of the pre-war model was dark green, which was later changed to gray to match the color of the overcoat.

Fur jackets were worn under the overcoat, either locally made, taken from the population, or donated by civilians from Germany. rabbit fur jacket with wooden buttons.

Winter boots for soldiers performing static duties such as sentries. They were made of felt and reinforced with leather strips, for insulation on a wooden sole up to 5 cm.

Knitted gloves had a standard pattern and were made of gray wool. The gloves were made in four sizes, small, medium, large and extra large. The size is indicated by white rings around the wrists, from one (small) to four (very large). The hood scarf was universal, tucked into the collar, served to protect the neck and ears, was adjustable at will, and was worn as a balaclava.

Field uniform of a Wehrmacht army police private, motorcyclist, in southern Russia 1942-44

The Army Field Police (Feldgendarmerie des Heeres) were formed during the German mobilization in 1939. Experienced officers from the civil gendarmerie police were recruited to work, and this formed the personnel backbone, along with non-commissioned officers from the army. The Feldgendarmerie battalion was subordinate to the army, consisting of three officers, 41 non-commissioned officers and 20 soldiers. The unit was motorized and equipped with motorcycles, light and heavy vehicles, they carried small arms and machine guns. Their responsibilities were as wide as their powers. They controlled all movements, checked the documents of troops en route, collected documents and information about prisoners, carried out anti-partisan operations, detained deserters, and generally maintained order and discipline. The Feldgendarmerie had complete power to march unchallenged through guard posts and safe zones, and to demand the documents of any military personnel, regardless of rank.
They wore the same uniform as the rest of the army, differing only in the orange piping and a special sign on the left sleeve. Their decoration Field gendarmerie gorget "Feldgendarmerie", this shows that the owner is on duty and has the authority to conduct an investigation. Because of this chain they were given the nickname “Ketienhund” or “chained dog”.

The motorcyclist's raincoat (Kradmantel) was more often produced in a waterproof design, made of rubberized fabric, gray or field-green fabric. Shown in olive color, used in Africa, Southern Europe and southern Russia. There were two loops at the top that made it possible to fasten the collar and cover the neck like an overcoat.

Using buttons at the bottom of the coat, the flaps could be folded up and fastened to a belt, convenient when riding a motorcycle. Feldgendarmerie field gendarmerie gorget The sign was designed to be clearly visible even at night under car headlights. The crescent plate was made from stamped steel.

The pendant chain was about 24 cm long and made of light metal. On a standard army belt, soldiers carried two triples of 32-round magazines for a 9mm MP40 submachine gun, sometimes unknowingly called a Schmeiser.

The first months of 1943 marked a turning point for the German Wehrmacht. The disaster at Stalingrad cost Germany about 200,000 killed and captured; for reference, about 90% of the prisoners died within a few weeks of capture. And four months later, some 240,000 soldiers surrendered in Tunisia. German troops fought in cold and heat, winter and summer, units were increasingly transferred between distant fronts to solve emergencies. Various items of military uniform have been simplified and made cheaper, and quality has suffered as a result, but the constant pursuit of research and development of new items reflects the concern that troops should have the best uniforms and equipment possible.

The use of reeds led to the introduction of a special green form. This lightweight and durable equipment was especially popular as a replacement for field gray, woolen uniforms on the hot southern fronts in Russia and the Mediterranean countries. The form was introduced at the beginning of 1943. The uniform will come in a variety of shades from sea green to light gray.

The M42 Steel Helmet (Steel Helmet-Modell 1942) was introduced in April 1942 as a necessary cost-saving measure; the dimensions and shape of the M35 were retained. The helmet is made by stamping, the edge is not folded and rolled, but simply bent outward and trimmed. The quality of steel is also not up to par, some alloying additives have been removed, and the economy is beginning to feel a shortage of some elements. To protect the gun, artillerymen are issued a personal P08 pistol.

The gunner's badge is on the left forearm, in the photo of the jacket.

Although ankle boots (Schnurschuhe) began to be introduced in August 1940 to preserve leather supplies, troops were zealous about preserving boots, trying to avoid the use of ankle boots and gaiters for as long as possible. In not a single film about the war will you see a German soldier wearing boots and spats, which is not true.

Wehrmacht uniform, boots and gaiters

So the German troops in the second half of the war had a very motley appearance,

not much different from our encirclement in the first half of the war.

The spats resembled English "bracelets" and were almost certainly a direct copy; they were extremely unpopular.

At the beginning of the war, Germany was able to field three full divisions of mountain riflemen (Gebirgstruppen). The troops are trained and equipped to carry out operations in mountainous areas. To carry out combat missions you need to be in good shape, well trained and self-sufficient. Therefore, most of the conscripts were taken from the mountainous regions of southern Germany and Austria. Mountain riflemen fought in Poland and Norway, made airborne landings on Crete, fought in Lapland, the Arctic Circle, the Balkans, the Caucasus, and Italy. An integral part of the mountain riflemen are units of artillery, reconnaissance, engineering, anti-tank and other auxiliary units that nominally have mountain qualifications. The Model 1943 (Dienstanzug Modell 1943) was introduced for all branches of the Army this year to replace all previous models. The new form brings a number of economic measures. Patch pockets have no pleats, whereas early models had a placket on the pocket.

The 1943 trousers have a more practical design. But due to the difficult economic situation in the country, materials of increasingly lower quality are used for military clothing. Although many soldiers retained the M34 boat cap for various periods, the single cap model 1943 (Einheitsfeldmiitze M43), which was introduced in 1943, proved very popular and was used until the end of the war. Cotton lining will soon be replaced by faux satin. The flaps of the cap can be folded back and fastened under the chin in bad weather. Something like our Budennovka.

Due to the poor quality of the material, six buttons are used instead of the previous five. The jacket could be worn with an open or closed collar. The edelweiss on the right sleeve, the distinctive badge of mountain riflemen of all ranks and categories, was introduced in May 1939.

Wehrmacht uniform, jacket, Russia 1943-44 complete degradation of materials

Standard mountain boots are worn with short wraps to provide ankle support and protection from snow and mud.

Wehrmacht infantry soldier, double-sided combat uniform for winter, Russia 1942-44.

After the catastrophic first winter in Russia. It was ordered to develop uniform combat clothing for the next season of the winter campaign. The uniform combat uniform was tested in Finland. In April 1942 it was submitted to Hitler for his approval, which was immediately granted. The textile industry has received an order to produce one million sets in time for next winter.

In the winter of 1942, some elements were added to the winter combat uniform. To the new flannel-lined jacket and trousers they added mittens, a woolen scarf, gloves (woolen and fur-lined), additional socks, a pullover, a hood, etc. While the majority of the troops received their basic uniforms on time. There was a catastrophic shortage of double-sided winter uniforms; infantry had priority for obtaining double-sided uniforms. So the new double-sided lined uniform was in short supply for everyone. This is clear from photographs of the 6th Army, which was defeated at Stalingradom in the winter of 1942-43.

captured Wehrmacht soldiers 1942 Bode

The new padded, reversible winter pattern was originally produced in mouse grey, but was white when turned inside out.

This was soon replaced (during the end of 1942, and of course by the beginning of 1943) the gray color was replaced by camouflage. During 1943, winter camouflage uniforms (Wintertarnanzug) began to appear in the military. The camouflage changed from swamp color to green beige. The angular pattern of spots became more blurred. The gauntlets and hood were painted in the same way as the uniform. This uniform was very popular with the troops and continued to be used until the end of the war.

Wehrmacht winter camouflage uniform jacket (Wintertarnanzug) Russia 1942-44.

Wintertarnanzug was first made of cotton with rayon. The inside is lined with layers of wool and cellulose for insulation. All elements and buttons are made on both sides. The hood was also double-breasted and secured with six buttons on the jacket. The trousers were made from the same material as the jacket and had drawstrings for adjustment.

All buttons on the trousers were made of resin or plastic, although metal buttons were also found.

The military uniform of Wehrmacht soldiers changed rapidly during the war, new solutions were found, but from the photographs it is clear that every year the quality of the materials used becomes lower and lower, reflecting the economic situation in the Third Reich.

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 sheepskin 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.

Often British soldiers had 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.

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 have time 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.

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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