UNIFORM & KIT ISSUED TO THE AIF DURING WW2
This pictorial library is devoted to the recording of "Uniform and Kit" issued to an Australian Soldier of any corps, during the Second World War. Consider it a virtual "Q" Store in Australian militaria. It is not exhaustive and will be added to over time. Any reader who wishes to contribute photographs and text will be recognised and credited with such information. I also invite collectors of other nation's militaria to forward content (please see our other countries listed on the drop down menu) - so that a comprehensive list of "Axis" and "Allies" uniform/kit is detailed.
Puttees (Khaki Wool)
Two different sets of khaki woollen Puttees, the type issued to Australian soldiers during the Second World War. Commonly referred to as 'leg wraps', the British Army had been wearing puttees since before the 1899 Anglo Boer War in South Africa. These Puttees are simply a strip of woven wool 4 and 3/8" wide (four and three eights inches) by 41" inches long. (Metric approx 11cm wide x 105 cm long) This is in contrast to their First World War predecessor which were much longer in comparison. They have a long cotton tape sewn to one end, for the purpose of securing the end of the puttee around the leg.
Woollen Puttees (Manufacturer N 179)
Close-up of the manufacture details concerning the Woollen Puttess. The letter 'N' before the 179 numeral indicates that this item was made in New South Wales. The date '1942' of course, denotes the year of manufacture and the dark ink stamp which is evident on the name tag, is a part of the Government 'Broad Arrow' acceptance mark.
Woollen Puttees (Alternate Manufacturer - N 96)
A similar set of puttees, but from a different manufacturer in New South Wales. The fact that these two sets of puttees are almost identical; and yet from different manufacturers - shows a consistency in the standard as set down by the Department of Defence. From the perspective of the modern collector, even this item (which was once found in plentiful surplus supply) are becoming harder to source. A surge in Military re-enacting during modern times, has seen many of these surplus puttees actually cut up, to make reproduction pugerees for slouch hats.
Woollen Puttees (Ink Stamping N 309)
A pair of Khaki Woollen Puttees, made by yet another manufacturer within New South Wales. Essentially, they are identical to the other two examples - however these ones were manufactured by the company with the code N309 during 1944. The variation in the colour (although a slightly lighter shade) when compared to the other examples is mainly due to the camera. (Image courtesy of the Kokoda Historical Collection). Do you have a pair of puttees in your collection from a different manufacturer of those displayed here? If so, please send us an electronic image and so that we can collate the many different textile manufactures during the War Years.
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