UNIFORM & KIT ISSUED TO THE BRITISH ARMY DURING WW2
This pictorial library is devoted to the recording of "Uniform and Kit" issued to a British Soldier of any corps, during the Second World War. Consider it a virtual "Q" Store in British 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.
THIS WEBPAGE IS CONSTANTLY BEING ADDED TO - SO PLEASE VISIT AGAIN
The Union Jack - Flag of the British Empire
Like the U.S. Flag, the Union Jack is one of the most easily recognized flags on the planet. Particularly in 1940, when most of Europe was under Nazi rule and German expansionism threatened the free world; this flag became a symbol of 'defiance' and 'resistance'. As reflected by comments made by Prime Minister Winston Churchill, the spirit and will of the British people during the war years - spelled their finest hour in the timeline of history.
WW2 Brodie Pattern Helmet
The British Brodie Pattern Mark II Steel Helmet without a camoflage net attached. This style of British helmet saw service in every theatre of war; of which Commonwealth Troops took part during the Second World War. It was also worn by all three services (Army, Navy and Air Force) although colour schemes did vary. This particular Brodie Pattern Helmet has a metal rim around it's outer edge. There are also many examples which are devoid of this 'rim'.
WW2 Brodie Pattern Helmet with Camoflage Net
A Second World War Brodie Pattern Helmet with cotton camoflage netting attached. As this type of helmet and netting was also in use by Australian, Canadian, New Zealand and South AfricanTroops, it has been included in the lists of equipment issued to these nations. The addition of this type of camoflage netting was more the exception, than the rule - the majority of helmets in service use being devoid of this accessory. (Photo courtesy of the Kokoda Historical Collection)
Brodie Pattern Helmet - inside view
Inner view of the British Brodie Pattern Mk II steel helmet. In contrast to the original Brodie style helmet from the First World War, the inner liner now consists of a black canvas type oilcloth with a rubber pad to cushion the crown of the helmet shell. The chin strap has changed from a half inch leather strap, to an elasticized khaki cotton webbing strap with two metal squares to attach to the helmet bails. This helmet served the British Army until the commission of the Mark 111 (Turtle or Tortoise Shell) helmet which afforded more protection to the side of the head.
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