This Marine is newly arrived having just disembarked at the docks of St. Nazaire. His Marine P1917 uniform is easily distinguished from the Army uniform by its forest green color and breast pocket pleats. Although, similar in color to the German "fieldgray" uniform and the AEF not wanting to have two separate uniforms, Marines preferred wearing the P1917, because they highly disliked wearing the uncomfortable Army M1912/AEF uniform and most importantly it allowed them to keep their USMC identity. On the way to the front he will be issued a helmet and gasmask. He will also exchange his canvas leggings for the British puttees.
On his cartridge belt hangs the M1910 first aid pouch containing a first aid dressing. Later versions contained dressings packaged in gas proof tins.
On his back is the M1910 infantry haversack made of wraps, straps, and snaps. One other piece made up the complete rig, that being the "pack carrier" sometimes called a "diaper" which attached to the bottom of the haversack but was often thrown away. This was used to attach the tent to the bottom of the haversack. Also attached is the M1910 entrenching tool and the M1905 bayonet. Overall the M1910 haversack was overly complex and awkward to carry. It could only be worn with its straps connected to the cartridge belt or pistol belt, since it lacked a separate set of shoulder straps. The soldier also had to completely unwrap the pack to get something out. |
