Your First Impression

You have taken your first steps into World War II Reenacting and are now wondering…What’s next? This page is designed to guide you through the task of putting together your new kit. Your first decision needs to be whether you want to portray the 504th PIR or 325th GIR. Once you decide this, follow the guides below to start putting together your impression. Remember, reach out to your mentor if you have any questions.

504th PIR Rifleman

This is the basic kit you will need to portray a rifleman in H Co. 504th PIR. This specific uniform and equipment were worn in Sicily and Italy but were also seen on paratroopers in Normandy and through the end of the war. Items required:

Uniform:

  • M1942 Jumpsuit (unreinforced): The main uniform of the paratrooper from stateside training through the Normandy campaign, with examples seen through the Battle of the Bulge.
  • M2 Helmet (“D-Bale”)
  • Jumpboots (Corcorans): In russet brown.

Field gear:

  • M1936 Pistol belt
  • M1936 Combat suspenders
  • M1936 Musette bag
  • M1910 Entrenching tool (“T-handle shovel”) & carrier
  • M1910 Canteen, canteen cup, & carrier
  • Rigger-made ammunition pouches (“Rigger pouches”):
  • Parachutist first aid pouch: This was worn in a variety of places, but mainly seen on the ankle or combat suspenders.
  • M1A1 Training gas mask & bag

Weapons:

  • M1 Rifle (“Garand”)
  • M1905 Bayonet:
  • M1918 Trench knife (“Knuckle knife”) in M6 scabbard:
  • MKII Fragmentation grenades

325th GIR Rifleman

This is the basic kit for a member of F Co. 325th GIR. This specific loadout was used by the 325th prior to Operation Overloard, however it can be used for most other impressions throughout the war. Items required:

Uniform:

  • M1941 Wool shirt & trousers
  • M1941 Field jacket
  • M1938 Leggings:
  • Service shoes
  • M1 Helmet

Field gear:

  • M1923 Cartridge belt
  • M1936 Combat suspenders
  • M1936 Musette bag
  • M1910 Canteen, canteen cup, & carrier: Metal and black plastic caps are both seen.
  • M1910 Pick mattock/M1943
  • M1942 Carlisle bandage pouch

Weapons:

  • M1 Rifle
  • M1 Bayonet
  • Fragmentation grenades
  • Right View
  • Rear View
  • Left View