Cap:

While this soft cloth cap was similar in appearance to the WWI overseas cap, it was now known as the garrison cap and worn at camp but not on the front lines. It was olive drab wool serge or khaki cotton. There was piping on the edge of the side flaps and the color was branch-dependent. (Not pictured)

M1 helmet:

This manganese steel upgrade from the WWI helmet provided greater ballistic protection, was stable to wear and didn’t interfere with the soldier’s vision or ability to fire weapons. Olive drab in color, it was also finished with sand or cork for a less reflective texture. The helmet featured a two-piece webbed chinstrap and had a separate liner made of plastic impregnated cotton that molded to shape. A canvas webbing suspension system allowed for a custom fit. The M1941 wool knit cap was sometimes worn underneath the helmet.

European Theater of Operations

Field jackets:

There were two versions of field jackets: the 1941 and 1943. (Pictured) 1943:This darker-colored olive drab cotton-poplin jacket phased out the 1941 version. It was single-breasted with hidden buttons and added two interior pockets, a detachable hood, a cotton-poplin liner and an internal synching tie to draw it in for a better fit. It was also more wind- and water-resistant. The 1941 olive drab cotton-poplin windbreaker-style jacket was lined with wool flannel. It had a zipper, a roll collar, buttons and slanted front pockets. It was loose and economical, so it replaced the service coat in the field

Overcoats:

Made of wool melton, the overcoat was of thick, dense fabric with a soft surface. (Not pictured)

Service shirts:

Button-up style in olive drab wool flannel, the shirts had two breast pockets and securable cuffs. The collar was designed to be worn with a necktie. (Not pictured)

P1937 Trousers:

Made of olive drab wool serge, these were worn for service and in the field. The button fly, unlined trousers had diagonal side pockets, one pocket in the rear, belt loops and suspender buttons on the inside. At that time, breeches were only used by mounted cavalry soldiers.

M1943 Trousers:

Issued during the middle of the war, the M1943 trousers were an unlined darker shade of olive drab made of cotton poplin. Adjustment tabs were added to the ankles and waist and they could be worn over wool trousers in cold weather. (Not pictured)

M1938 Leggings:

The khaki or olive drab cotton canvas leggings were worn with the field service shoe.They were laced up the side with a cord and secured with hooks and eyelets. An adjustable strap went under the soldier’s instep. Troops who received combat boots that were issued starting in 1943, no longer needed the leggings. Puttees had also been phased out because there was no more trench warfare. (Not pictured)

Pacific Theater of Operations

Jackets:

Herringbone twill cotton was used for these unlined olive drab jackets because it was more airy than wool and dried quicker. This single-breasted jacket had five buttons, two flap-secured breast pockets and a roll collar that was designed to be worn open at the neck. While herringbone twill was designated a jungle-desert combat outfit, some were issued to troops participating in the Normandy Invasion that had added protection from chemical agents.

Trousers:

Herringbone twill cotton was used for these olive drab trousers because it was more airy than wool and dried quicker. They were unlined and had a button fly, belt loops and suspender buttons on the inside. Each side had a large flap-secured cargo pocket.

Field service shoes were initially ankle-high and made of roughout leather (softer than in WWI) or smooth russet. Soles and heels were now made of durable synthetic rubber. By midwar, the M1943 combat service boot was introduced with these same features, but also included a two-buckle leather cuff at the top. Pacific soldiers were also often issued olive drab cotton canvas jungle boots with black rubber soles. They were tall and laced in the front using hooks and eyelets.

Shoe Pacs was a rubber boots were issued for winter climates and were to be worn with a felt liner insert to wick out water. These were to be used in place of the regular boot. (Not pictured)

Trigger-finger mittens were introduced and there were few changes made to the style of equipment since large quantities of what had been manufactured during WWI were still on hand. This soldier wears a bedroll. The M1943 entrenching shovel had a triangular front edge and folding steelhead that could lock at various degrees.

The new M1945 combat and cargo pack (Not pictured) that was in two parts that could be worn separately was also released, but it was issued in limited numbers by war’s end.

Since chemical warfare was expected after WWI, many variations were fielded during WWII. The M2A1 and M2A2 series gas masks (not pictured) and the M3 lightweight gas mask were used during the early part of the war. Each connected to a filter canister by a hose. In 1944, D-Day troops were among those issued the M5 assault gas mask in a waterproof carrier. This mask’s filter canister screwed directly into the cheek of the facepiece and became the pattern for the development of postwar gas masks.

Soldiers used variations of the M1903 Springfield rifle from WWI, but newer firepower was also introduced:

M1 Garand .30-caliber rifle:

Introduced in 1936, this was the first gas-operated, clip-loaded semiautomatic rifle in the world, giving the U.S. significant firepower advantage. It used an expendable “en bloc” steel clip, each holding eight rounds of ammo.

M1 .30-cal carbine:

This lightweight carbine was used by rear-echelon troops, noncommissioned officers and specialist troops. The carbine used a shorter, less powerful .30-caliber cartridge with a 15-round magazine.

Bayonets:

The M1 and M1903 rifles could both be fitted with the M1905 bayonet used in WWI. Then came a new version, the M1942, which was also 16 inches but had plastic grips instead of wood, an anticorrosion coating on the metal and a cotton scabbard. In 1943, a shorter 10-inch version of the M1942 bayonet was created. Remaining M1905 and M1942 versions were cut down to match and issued.

Additional weapons:

Machete-like bolo knives, Colt. 45 pistols, Thompson submachine guns, Browning Automatic Rifles and the M3A1 submachine gun.

The M1923 dismounted cartridge belt provided 10 canvas pockets for 10 additional clips for the M1 Garand rifle. Metal grommets attached to the straps of the haversack and could attach to more equipment if needed, such as the stainless steel canteen, its cup, their cotton canvas cover and a first aid pouch.

The M6 gas mask carrier and a six-pocket cloth bandoleer were carried over the shoulder for the M1 Garand and M1903 rifle .30-caliber ammunition clips. A dinner k-ration was also carried in the left breast pocket.

Cap:

Similar in appearance to the WWI overseas cap, this soft cloth covering was now known as the garrison cap. Made of olive drab wool serge or khaki cotton, the cap was used in camp, not on the front lines. There was piping on the edge of the side flaps; its color was branch-dependent. (Not pictured)

M1 helmet:

This manganese steel upgrade from the WWI helmet provided greater ballistic protection, was stable to wear and didn’t interfere with the soldier’s vision or weapon-firing capabilities. Painted olive drab, the helmet was finished with sand/cork to give it a less reflective texture. It had a canvas webbing suspension system to custom-fit the head, a separate liner made of plastic impregnated cotton that molded to shape and a two-piece webbed chinstrap.

Herringbone twill:

material was prevalent in both the European and Pacific theaters in Olive Drab No. 7 shade. It was used for jackets and trousers because it was more airy than wool and dried quicker. A one-piece coverall was an option for fatigue and field use, but it wasn’t very useful in the field. Troops preferred the two-piece.

Jackets:

Herringbone twill cotton was used for these unlined olive drab-colored jackets because it was more airy than wool and dried quicker. These single-breasted jackets had five buttons, two flap-secured breast pockets and roll collars that were designed to be worn open at the neck. Herringbone twill was designated a jungle-desert combat outfit, though some with added protection from chemical agents were issued to troops participating in the Normandy invasion.

Trousers:

Herringbone twill cotton was used for these olive drab-colored trousers because it was more airy than wool and dried quicker. The trousers were unlined and had a button fly, belt loops and suspender buttons on the inside. Each side had a large flap-secured cargo pocket.

M1938 Leggings:

Puttees, which wrapped around the lower leg, had been phased out with the end of trench warfare. M1938 leggings, made of khaki or olive drab cotton canvas, laced up the side with a cord and were secured with hooks and eyelets. They were worn with the field service shoe and had an adjustable strap that went under a soldier’s instep. Troops that received combat boots, which were issued beginning in 1943, no longer needed these leggings.

Field service shoes initially were ankle-high and made of roughout leather (softer than in WWI) or smooth russet. Soles and heels were now made of durable synthetic rubber. By 1943, the combat service boot was introduced with these same features, and also included a two-buckle leather cuff at the top. Pacific soldiers often also received tall olive drab cotton canvas jungle boots that laced in the front using hooks and eyelets and had black rubber soles (not pictured).

Shoe Pacs were rubber boots issued for winter climates and worn with a felt liner insert to wick out water. These were worn in place of the regular boot. (Not pictured)

Other than the introduction of trigger-finger mittens, few changes were made to the style of field equipment issued, since large quantities of equipment manufactured during WWI were still on hand. This soldier wears the M1928 haversack, which was nearly identical to the M1910 version, with the addition of a few quick-release buckles. He has the M1910 entrenching tool and the late-issue M5 assault gas mask in a waterproof carrier. This mask’s filter canister screwed directly into the cheek of the facepiece and became the pattern for the development of postwar gas masks.

Metal grommets attached to the straps of the haversack and could attach to more equipment if needed, such as the M1910 aluminum canteen and cup, their cotton canvas cover and the M1924 first aid packet and pouch.

The new M1945 Combat & Cargo Pack also came out, but it was issued in limited numbers by war’s end. It was two pieces that could be worn together or separately. (Not pictured)

Soldiers still used variations of the M1903 Springfield rifle from WWI, but newer firepower was also introduced:

M1 Garand .30-caliber rifle:

Introduced in 1936, this was the first gas-operated, clip-loaded semi-automatic rifle in the world, giving the U.S. significant firepower advantage. It used an expendable “en bloc” steel clip that held eight rounds of ammunition.

M1 .30-cal carbine:

Rear-echelon troops, noncommissioned officers and specialist troops used this lightweight carbine, which took a 15-round magazine.

Bayonets:

The M1 and M1903 rifles could both be fitted with the M1905 bayonet used in WWI. Then came a new version, the M1942, which was still 16 inches but had plastic grips instead of wood, an anti-corrosion coating on the metal and a cotton scabbard. In 1943, a shorter 10-inch version of the M1942 bayonet was created. Remaining M1905 and M1942 versions were cut down to match and issued.

Additional weapons:

Machete-like bolo knives, Colt .45 pistols, Thompson submachine guns, Browning automatics and M3A1 submachine guns.

The M1923 Dismounted Cartridge Belt provided 10 canvas pockets for 10 clips of .30-caliber ammunition for the M1 Garand Rifle.

M1 Helmet:

This was the same helmet used in WWII. However, many of the helmets in storage had been sold at a surplus, creating a shortage for Korea. Manufacturing of new helmets began in 1951.

Caps:

Soldiers wore the M1943 & M1951 Pile Field Caps among other caps in Korea. Designed for wet, cold winter conditions, the pile caps were soft, olive drab cotton poplin with wool lining, and had turn-up visors and ear flaps of synthetic fur-like material that could be worn up or down. They were meant to be worn under the M1 combat helmet.

Other caps included the herringbone twill fatigue cap for work duty in temperate weather, the M1943 cotton field cap worn during dry, cold winters and the M1951 lightweight windproof cotton field cap with rounded visor and retractable earflaps for all environments.

The M1943 field jacket, herringbone twill jacket, M1943 trousers and herringbone twill trousers were the same as in World War II, in the darker olive drab shade. Most soldiers wore the M1943 field jacket until the introduction of the M1951 version during the war. Made of cotton poplin, the M1951 jacket was mostly the same as its predecessor, but with a zippered front instead of buttons and a detachable mohair frieze liner for extra warmth.

The M1943 combat boots and shoe pacs from WWII were issued until those stocks were exhausted, at which point soldiers received the M1949 version – a high lace-up russet leather boot with rubber heels and soles. In 1951, the insulated rubber combat boot, known as the “Mickey Mouse,” was issued to replace the combat boots and shoepacs.

Much of the gear remained the same as in WWII. The M1945 Combat and Cargo Pack also was used in Korea, but was a darker olive drab. The pack consisted of three components:

The OD canvas combat pack carried essential items like food, tools, clothing and other personal items (pictured here). It also had attachments to carry an entrenching shovel and M1 bayonet. Web straps held a sleeping bag, parka or overcoat.

The OD canvas field cargo pack (not pictured) attached to the bottom of the combat pack using three web straps and held the shelter half, poles and pegs, spare clothing and personal items. It also had a suitcase-like handle, allowing it to be both carried separately and quickly dropped when going into action. Cotton web pack suspenders could hold the combat pack or, using metal spring clips, support the weight of the WWII-era cartridge belt.

The M9A1 Field Protective Mask (not pictured) issued after 1951 was a light gas mask with a rubber-molded facepiece, laminated glass, aluminum eyepieces and a filter canister that screwed onto the mask’s left cheek. It came with an olive drab cotton canvas carrier bag.

As in WWII, troops in Korea used the M1943 entrenching shovels, which had a triangular front edge and folding steel head that could lock at various degrees. Also issued was the M1951, which was identical to the M1943 except for the addition of a short folding pick blade.

Soldiers received the same canteens, covers and cups as in WWII. The first aid pouch was mostly the same, as was the bandoleer, which now held clips for the M1.

M1 Garand .30-caliber rifle:

This rifle was still widely issued, as were most other WWII weapons. The Thompson submachine gun, however, was replaced by the M2 Carbine.

M1 Knife Bayonet:

This 10-inch knife blade bayonet replaced the prior 16-inch versions at the end of WWII.

Overcoats:

Overcoats were a dark olive drab cotton poplin with a snow-colored reversible side for camouflage. It closed with a zipper and buttons, had four front pockets and a fixed hood with a removable liner.

M1951 Parka:

Parkas had an olive green cotton canvas outer shell with a fur-lined hood and detachable mohair frieze liner for extra insulation. They could be worn over the field jacket in very cold conditions and were supposed to be issued instead of overcoats, but front line troops often complained they weren’t getting them.

Ponchos:

Olive drab ponchos were made of nylon twill coated in vinyl resin for waterproofing. The lightweight poncho was more practical than a raincoat in the field because it could be used as a groundsheet or to cover gear. A hooded version was authorized by September 1951.

Handwear:

Black, water-resistant leather gloves had wool-nylon blend inserts that could be worn on either hand. Trigger-finger mittens with inserts were also issued. The mittens had a strap and loop to stow the trigger finger if needed, and the back of the glove was lined with insulation. (Not pictured)

Undergarments:

To combat the frigid temperatures in Korea, soldiers by 1951 were issued cotton-wool blend undershirts, shrink-resistant wool-nylon blend field shirts, wool boot socks to go over regular socks, crisscrossed suspenders and cotton-wool long underwear. (Not pictured)

M1951 Wool and Field Trousers:

Olive green wool serge trousers had a waistband with belt loops, suspender straps, waist adjustment straps and four pockets. The field trousers were an olive green cotton poplin shell worn over the wool trousers in wet, frigid conditions. A detachable mohair frieze liner could be attached inside the shell for added warmth. (Not pictured)

Mufflers made of wool were sometimes issued. (Not pictured)

M1952A Armor Body Fragmentation Protective Vest:

The Army and Marines began testing combat body armor in Korea in 1951. While Marines standardized one vest, the Army developed a superior one. This model, the M1952A, was 8½ pounds, with 12 layers of ballistic nylon in an olive green cover. It was adjustable and had two chest pockets and a thin strip of webbing to carry grenades. The M1952A was issued to troops through the end of the war, except for a few months when production problems resulted in the Marine Corps vest being provided instead. (Not pictured)

M1 Helmet:

The M1 steel helmet and liner were virtually the same as those used in World War II, and many of those helmets were still in use. In 1969, new liners made of ballistic nylon with removable suspension began replacing the older pattern liners.

Cotton camouflage covers were prevalent in a design known as the "Mitchell" pattern. They were reversible, with leaf camouflage in green colors on one side and brown colors on the other. The covers had buttonholes for inserting natural foliage for additional camouflage, and an olive green elastic camouflage helmet band that could hold items such as insect repellent bottles.

The Tropical Hat, also known as the Boonie Hat, was made of olive green shade 107 cotton cloth and had a 2½-inch wide brim with a flat-top crown. It featured an adjustable nylon lace chinstrap, two half-inch screened ventilation eyelets on each side and a ¾-inch nylon-webbing headband for inserting natural camouflage.

Commonly known as jungle fatigues, the tropical combat uniform evolved over time but the basic features remained the same.

Tropical Combat Jacket:

The jacket was made of a tightly woven, lightweight, cotton twill material and later cotton ripstop, in olive green shade 107. It was a bush-style design with two slanted bellows-type chest pockets with button flaps and two lower bellows pockets with button flaps below the waist. Olive green shade 107 cotton T-shirts were also commonly worn in the hot weather, replacing white T-shirts worn early in the war.

Utility Shirt:

Between 1965 and 1967, the utility uniform was the primary combat clothing worn in Vietnam. The shirt, originally called a jacket, was made of olive green shade 107 cotton sateen. Initially, it was single-breasted with a fall collar, two patch chest pockets with button flaps, a straight bottom and plain sleeves. (Not pictured)

Tropical Combat Trousers:

The trousers were also made of a tightly woven, lightweight, cotton twill material and later cotton ripstop, in olive green shade 107. They had two front pockets, two rear pockets and two bellows-type cargo pockets on the legs. The trousers had a button fly and a drawcord at the bottom of each leg for protection from insects.

Utility Shirt and Trousers:

Between 1965 and 1967, the utility uniform was the primary combat clothing worn in Vietnam. The shirt, originally called a jacket, was made of olive green shade 107 cotton sateen. Initially, it was single-breasted with a fall collar, two patch chest pockets with button flaps, a straight bottom and plain sleeves. The matching utility trousers had two front patch pockets, two rear pockets with buttoned flaps, hemmed bottoms and a button fly. (Not pictured)

ERDL Camouflage Pattern, also known as the “Leaf” pattern, was a combination of dark green, light green, brown and black shades. Only Special Forces and special operations troops wore this pattern, which was developed in 1948 by the Engineer Research and Development Lab and first used in 1967 in Vietnam. It was issued in both cotton poplin and ripstop fabric for the Tropical Combat Uniform.

The Army started with Pattern 1956 Combat Boots, which were a high, lace-up boot with rubber heels and rubber soles. Because they didn’t work well in the humid jungle environment, the Tropical Combat Boot (jungle boots) quickly replaced them. These boots had canvas tongues and upper parts, which was more breathable and dried faster than leather. They had a vibram-type rubber tread and later, a Panama-style sole with fatter tread and nylon to support the ankles. Steel plates were added to soles to mitigate wounds caused by punji sticks - simple spikes, made out of wood or bamboo

The M1956 Load-Carrying Equipment was made of olive drab shade 7 cotton web canvas. The set was a complete replacement for the personal field equipment used during World War II and the Korean War. Each of the add-on components has a unique metal slide keeper for attaching to the belt or to other equipment: The set included:

M1956 Individual Equipment Belt:

This was a web belt with three rows of eyelets. It could be adjusted in length from both ends and had a ball-type buckle.

M1956 Combat Suspenders:

The suspenders were an “H” design and both the front and rear straps had hooks at the end. A metal loop connected to the support strap of an ammunition case. A first-aid pouch or flashlight could also be attached.

M1961 Combat Field Pack:

Known as the “Butt Pack,” this pack featured a large storage compartment with a rubberized waterproof lining. Troops typically wore the pack attached to the pistol belt at the center of the back with the suspenders' rear straps clipped to eyelets at the corners of the bag.

M1956 First Aid/Compass Case:

As the name implies, this small case was one of two used to hold either a field compass or the field dressing packet. It had a single slide keeper on the back that attached it to either the belt or the web keeper on the suspenders.

Canteen:

The olive drab plastic polyethylene 1-quart canteen was first produced in 1962 and replaced the M1910 aluminum model. It featured a plastic screw cap with a plastic attaching strap. The M1956 Canteen Cover had felt lining and was designed to carry the 1-quart plastic canteen and stainless steel cup. It was attached to the belt with a pair of slide keepers.

The M1951 Combination Entrenching Tool had a straight wooden handle, folding shovel head and short folding pick blade. The cotton canvas M1956 Entrenching Tool Cover could accommodate either the M1943 shovel or the M1951 combination entrenching tool. A bayonet hanger on the front and slide keepers on the back attached to the belt or rucksack.

The M1956 Sleeping Bag Carrier allowed a sleeping bag to be carried on the M1956 Suspenders. The carrier was intended for use with the M-1949 Mountain Sleeping Bag. (Not pictured)

In 1967, the nylon/plastic M1967 Modernized Load-Carrying Equipment replaced the previous canvas iteration. The new equipment was lighter, more breathable and dried faster. It was mostly issued as components to go with the M1956 and not often given out as a whole set. (Not pictured)

The M16 rifle was the most-issued weapon. It has been in Army service since 1965. The gas-operated, semi-automatic rifle in 5.56 mm used a 20-round external box magazine. By the end of the war, the 30-round external box magazine was introduced. It was capable of semi-automatic and full-automatic fire.

The M14 rifle also was issued early in the Vietnam War. Like the M16, it was also a gas-operated, semi-automatic rifle using 20-round external box magazines, but fired a more powerful 7.62mm/.308 caliber round. It was much heavier than the M16 to reduce the recoil of the heavier bullet. It was capable of semi-automatic and full-automatic fire. (Not pictured)

M1956 Universal Ammo Case:

The universal ammunition case was originally designed to hold magazines for the Browning automatic rifle and bandoleers containing six 8-round clips of M1 ammunition. In Vietnam, the 20-round M16 magazines proved too short for the universal pouch and as a result, a sock was often put in the bottom to raise the magazines up for faster retrieval. A shorter M1956 M16A1 ammo case was introduced to solve the problem. Both cases attached to the pistol belt via two slide keepers. They both had a supporting strap that clipped to the metal loop on the suspenders and straps on both sides for attaching hand grenades.

M3 Bandoleer:

The olive green cotton M3 bandoleer had seven pockets, each designed to have a cardboard sleeve that held a 10-round clip of 5.56 mm ammunition for the M16 rifle. In Vietnam, troops would often carry a 20-round M16 magazine in each of the bandoleer's seven pockets and would frequently carry two or three on field operations.

Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops (PASGT) Helmet

The helmet was ballistic fiberglass, trademarked as Kevlar, to protect from bullets and fragmenting munitions. The helmet's profile was smaller to fit the head better, with ear protection and better visibility. Inside was an integrated strap suspension system. Soldiers wore either the “Chocolate Chip” or Woodland pattern helmet covers.

The Desert Battle Dress Uniform was a six-color, unified set that included a coat, trousers, field cap and helmet. The DBDUs were made of 50/50 cotton-nylon blend fabric. The cut was an upgrade from the uniform worn in Vietnam. The coat pockets were horizontal rather than slanted. As during the Vietnam War, the cargo-style trousers had large pockets on the left and right sides and drawstring pant legs.

Troops wore a combination of Woodland and desert-style BDUs. Woodland camouflage was developed in the 1970s and used in jungle and European operations, replacing ERDL camo. It had a large-leaf four-color pattern with four pockets that had concealed buttons. They were either 100% cotton or 50/50 nylon-cotton.

Soldiers commonly wore either the all-black leather boots, olive drab nylon-canvas and leather jungle boots or the tan, nylon-canvas and leather desert boots.

The basic concept of the equipment had not changed since the M1967 gear used in Vietnam.

The All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment, or ALICE, was introduced in 1972. It included nylon Y-shaped suspenders and a nylon equipment belt and was designed for use in all environments. ALICE could still be intermixed with the M1956/1967 gear.

Some elements of ALICE lasted into the early part of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The M17A2 Gas Mask was very similar to the M17 issued in Vietnam.

The M16A2 was the primary weapon used by front-line soldiers. It had a heavier barrel to accommodate a heavier 5.56 mm bullet and used 30-round magazines. The M16A2 had a semi-automatic and three-round burst.

Fragmentation Protective Vest, Ground Troops (not pictured) is part of the PASGT system. It is made of spun Kevlar. The vest shell was either a Woodland or six-color desert scheme pattern. It was designed to stop low-velocity shrapnel and fragments but lacked the ballistic capability to stop high-velocity bullets.

Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops (PASGT) Helmet

The helmet was ballistic fiberglass, trademarked as Kevlar, to protect from bullets and fragmenting munitions. The helmet's profile was smaller to fit the head better, with ear protection and better visibility. Inside was an integrated strap suspension system. Soldiers wore either the “Chocolate Chip” or Woodland pattern helmet covers.

Kevlar paved the way for radical changes in protective helmets and body armor. It is much stronger than steel, lightweight and ultra protective. Earlier Kevlar designs provided low-velocity protection.

From 2001 to 2005, soldiers wore a mixture of Woodland BDU pattern gear and the new Desert Camouflage Uniform pattern gear. The DCU had only three colors instead of the DBDU’s six. The DCUs were made of ripstop fabric in a 50/50 cotton-nylon blend. The trousers were cargo-style.

Gloves:

Combat Vehicle Crewman, or CVC, gloves provided flame-retardant hand protection.

The Army changed over to a new nylon and leather, desert-colored jungle boot.

The Enhanced Tactical Load Bearing Vest was issued beginning in 1995. The ETLBV was one-size-fits-all, had four inward slanting Magazine Pouches that could carry a total of six 30-round magazines, two grenade pouches, mesh panels for more breathability, and two quick-release buckles in the front. Lower straps from the ETLBV secured the Equipment Belt (not pictured). Canteens and other equipment could be attached to the belt.

Gas Mask: (Not pictured)

The M40 and M50 Joint Service General Protective Masks (as part of the Joint Service Lightweight Integrated Suit Technology)

M4 and M4A1 Carbine:

The M4 was a lighter, shortened version of the M16 rifle. First issued in the mid-1990s, the M4 was more prevalent during the initial years of OEF/OIF than the M16A2. It has a semi-automatic and three-round burst.

Outer Tactical Vest (OTV):

In 1999, the military introduced the Interceptor Body Armor, or IBA, also known as the Outer Tactical Vest.

Previous vests featured layers of nylon material designed to stop low-velocity shrapnel and fragments.

The IBA had bullet-stopping capabilities superior to PASGT. The outer shell protected against fragments and low-velocity rounds and could be integrated with the ETLBV system. Small Arms Protective Inserts are rigid ceramic composite plates with an outer layer of Kevlar or similar material that are inserted into the front and back pockets of the vest, giving the vest greater capacity to stop rifle rounds.

IBA also could be fitted with additional parts to extend protection: a groin protector, the Deltoid Axillary Protection System (made of four components for the shoulder areas), a throat protector, and a yoke and collar. The pieces could be mixed and matched as needed for the mission or by soldier preference. However, these components were not bulletproof.

The vest was issued in various camo patterns. It included the Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system. The MOLLE pocket attachment system is a webbing grid on the front and back that could accommodate holsters, pouches and other gear. Equipment could now be attached in whatever configuration the soldier needed.

Advanced Combat Helmet, or ACH, was based on the PASGT helmet and went through a few changes. The helmet reduced the area covering the ears and eyes, significantly decreasing its weight. It had increased bullet protection and more head mobility, and included a pad suspension system and four-point chinstrap. It could interface with tactical headsets and microphones and included a mounting bracket for night vision goggles.

Military Combat Eye Protection, or MCEP, included a number of ballistic masks and goggles designed to protect the eyes of soldiers against shrapnel, UV rays, lasers, dust and wind.

The Army Combat Uniform, or ACU, replaced the Battle Dress and Desert Camouflage uniforms and became standard issue in 2005. It was issued in two different camouflage patterns based on the area of deployment: the Universal Camouflage Pattern and later the Operation Enduring Freedom Camouflage Pattern. The set includes ripstop trousers, a coat, a patrol cap and moisture-wicking T-shirt and socks. The Universal Camouflage Pattern was the Army's digitally-based camouflage, a gray, tan and foliage-green pixelated blend. Most ACUs had hook-and-loop fasteners except the coat, which had a zipper. The Army eventually replaced most of the hook-and-loop closures with buttons for current-day uniforms.

The coat initially had a Mandarin collar and a zipper covered with hook-and-loop fasteners. There were several pockets with hook-and-loop closures. The name and Army tape attached above the front pockets were removable.

2015 brought several changes based on soldiers' feedback: The Mandarin collar was removed; buttons replaced Velcro except on unit shoulder sleeve insignia; name and Army tapes and rank insignia could now be sewn on; in lieu of Velcro, cord and barrel locks on pockets were removed; and the pen pocket on the sleeve went from three to two slots.

The trousers had four cargo pockets: one on each ankle and one on each thigh. The trousers had reinforced knees and the shirts had reinforced elbows; these reinforced areas could be fitted with foam protection pads. Trousers also included a drawstring leg cuff.

Separate knee and elbow pads became standard issue. Elbow and knee pad pouches were later added to the coat and trousers.

The Flight Glove is a short aramid and leather glove that allowed maximum dexterity and protected hands from fire, cuts and other injuries.

The Army Combat Boot (ACB) is a lightweight, waterproof, fireproof and breathable combat boot made of high-grade nylon and used in temperate weather. The soles provide grip in mountainous terrain.

The Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment, or MOLLE, system was introduced in 1997 but wasn’t issued widely until 2003. Issued first in Woodland and then Desert camo, the MOLLE was switched to the Universal Camouflage Pattern in 2006. In 2009, the MOLLE OCP/Multicam was issued to soldiers deployed to Afghanistan. Beginning in 2015, it was issued to all soldiers after UCP was discontinued for combat zones.

MOLLE is a fully integrated, modular load-bearing system consisting of a load-bearing vest with butt pack, main ruck with sustainment pouches and sleeping bag compartment attached to an external frame. The MOLLE system allows for versatility and greater load distribution. All the equipment that would normally be carried on suspenders or pistol belts can be attached in whatever configuration the individual soldier wants. Attached gear includes a canteen, first aid pouch and ammo pouches.

The CamelBak Hydration Bladder system supplemented the one-quart and two-quart canteens to provide an alternative hydration method. It is a plastic water bladder connected to a length of hose that fits into an insulated bag that can be strapped on the carrier's back or attached to a rucksack. Soldiers can easily drink from the bite valve while on the move.

M40 and M50 Gas Mask:

The new gas mask had the same basic design, with improved field of vision glasses and ballistic capability.

M4 and M4A1 Carbines:

The M4 was a lighter, shortened version of the M16 rifle. First issued in the mid-1990s, it was more prevalent than the M16A2 during the initial years of OEF/OIF. The M4 has a four position adjustable stock and is capable of semiautomatic fire and three-round burst. The improved M4 Carbine incorporated a new rail system to allow attachments of various types such as a laser pointer, flashlight, shotgun and grenade launcher.

In 2010 the Army decided to only issue the M4A1, which has semiautomatic and fully automatic firing modes. Existing M4s were upgraded to M4A1.

In 2007, the Army introduced the Improved Outer Tactical Vest, or IOTV, which provided increased protection over the OTV. Improvements included a side-opening, built-in quick-release system. Other new features included a ballistic collar, quick release assembly cord, front plate carrier, rear plate carrier, groin protector, lower back protector and elastic cummerbund assembly. Enhanced Small Arms Protective Inserts, or ESAPI, plates replaced SAPI beginning in 2005. The rigid ceramic composite plates have an outer layer of Kevlar or similar material that are inserted into the front, back and side pockets of the vest, giving it greater ballistic protection capabilities against high-velocity rifle rounds.

The Soldier Plate Carrier System, or SPCS, debuted in 2009. Its level of protection against high-velocity threats was on par with the IOTV but it allowed for a wider range of motion. The SPCS was lighter but had fewer flexible panels and less protection against low-velocity fragments. (Not pictured)

IOTV also could be fitted with additional parts such as a groin protector to extend protection. The vest was issued in various camo patterns. It included the Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system. The MOLLE pocket attachment system, consisting of a webbing grid on the front and back, could accommodate holsters, pouches and other gear. Equipment could now be attached in whatever configuration the individual soldier needed.

The Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment, or MOLLE, system was introduced in 1997, but wasn’t issued widely until 2003. Issued in Woodland camo, then the Desert camo, the MOLLE was switched to gray-tone universal digital color in 2006. In 2009, the MOLLE OCP/Multicam was issued to soldiers deployed to Afghanistan, and to all soldiers beginning in 2015 after UCP was discontinued for combat zones.

MOLLE is a fully integrated, modular load bearing system consisting of a load-bearing vest with butt pack, main ruck with sustainment pouches and sleeping bag compartment attached to an external frame. The MOLLE system allows for versatility and greater load distribution. So all the equipment that would normally be carried on suspenders can be attached in whatever configuration the individual soldier wants. Attached gear included canteen, ammo pouches, etc.

Camelbak/hydration bladder: The CamelBak hydration system is the new canteen. It is a plastic water bladder connected to a length of hose that fits into an insulated bag that can be strapped on the carrier's back or attached to a rucksack.

CamelBak was developed by bike racers who needed hydration on the move but could not slow down to use a bottle or other water source.

M40 and M50 Gas Mask: The new gas mask had the same basic design, with improved field of vision glasses and ballistic capability.

M4 and M4 A-1 Carbines

M4 was lighter and a shortened version of the M16 rifle. It was first issued in the mid-1990s and was more prevalent during the initial years of OEF/OIF than the M16A2. The M4 has semi-automatic and three-round burst. The improved M4 Carbine incorporated a new rail system to allow attachments of various types of electronics and weapons like a laser pointer, flashlight, shotgun, grenade launcher, etc.

In 2010 the Army decided to only issue the M4A1, which has semi-automatic and fully automatic firing modes. Existing M4s were upgraded to M4A1.

Advanced Combat Helmet, or ACH, is based on the PASGT helmet with a few changes. The helmet reduced the area covering the ears and eyes, significantly reducing its weight. It has increased bullet protection, provides more head mobility and includes a pad suspension system and a four-point chinstrap. It also is able to interface with tactical headsets and microphones, and includes a mounting bracket for night vision goggles.

The Army switched to the Operational Camouflage Pattern uniform based on soldiers’ feedback about the digital camouflage. Special Forces were already using the OCP design in 2006 in Afghanistan. Iraq-deployed soldiers had to still wear UCP uniforms. The now-standard issued OCP uniform is still made of 50/50 cotton-nylon blend and ripstop fabric.

The upgraded OCP Army Combat Uniform Coat has buttons and a zipper with two slanted breast pockets. The camouflage sleeves are fitted with cargo pockets with Velcro panels, enabling the soldier to wear identification and infrared identification tags.

The upgraded OCP Army Combat Uniform Shirt incorporates a full torso made of coyote-tan, elastic-nylon material for better cooling when wearing body armor. It also has pockets on the sleeves. (Not pictured)

The upgraded OCP Army Combat Uniform Trousers have reinforced areas including the seat and joint areas. Trouser knees can be fitted with rigid pads to protect soldiers against hard surfaces.

The Army Combat Boot is a lightweight combat boot used in temperate weather, issued in tan or coyote leather. These are made of high-grade nylon and leather and are waterproof, fireproof and breathable. Soles provide grip in mountainous terrain. Mountain Combat and Hot Weather boots also are issued for variable climates.

MOLLE II Medium Rucksack:

The MOLLE II further improves the original MOLLE system which provides soldiers with added benefits including versatility, greater load distribution and customized attachments.

M4A1 Carbine:

Since the mid-2010s, all carbines issued have been in the M4A1 configuration. Similar to the M4, the M4A1 continues to allow attachments of various types of electronics and weapons, including a laser pointer, flashlight, shotgun and grenade launcher.

The Modular Scalable Vest is a bullet-resistant vest that was introduced in 2018. It weighs about 5 pounds less than the Improved Outer Tactical Vest. It also is scalable, allowing the wearer to tailor the vest to better fit mission requirements.