US WWII Soldiers LOVED These Pieces of Gear

When you think of what American soldiers carried into battle during World War II, it’s easy to focus on rifles, helmets, and ammunition. But beyond the standard-issue gear were the lesser-known essentials—items that didn’t just make survival possible, but made the harsh realities of war a little more bearable. From warmth to comfort to practicality, these are the top five personal favorites among WWII GIs:

5. Suspenders – The Unsung Hero of Load-Bearing

Combat belts were the core of every soldier’s gear-carrying system—but they had their downsides. Once loaded with canteens, ammo pouches, and other necessities, belts would sag, twist, or become downright uncomfortable.

Enter the suspenders—a simple solution that made a world of difference. By redistributing the weight to the shoulders, suspenders made it easier to move, fight, and endure long patrols. Soldiers quickly learned that with suspenders, they could carry more and suffer less.

4. Wool Sweaters – The Layer That Saved Lives

In the freezing mud of Europe or the biting chill of early morning patrols, wool sweaters were a soldier’s best friend. Often worn under the newer M43 field jacket, these sweaters offered crucial insulation and were far more effective than the older M41 setup.

Though not flashy, sweaters were a quiet essential—soft, warm, and easy to pack. For many soldiers, they were the first line of defense against frostbite and trench foot.

3. Entrenching Tool (Shovel) – The Lifesaver in the Dirt

In WWII, the ability to dig fast could mean the difference between life and death. Whether building foxholes, trenches, or quick cover under fire, soldiers relied heavily on their entrenching tools.

One GI from the 84th Infantry Division summed it up best:

“This item is very important and is giving excellent performance. The story is told of several men who pass through a battalion aid station holding their shovels in their hands and not allowing even the medics to take them away from them.”

The shovel wasn’t just a tool. It was a shield, a seat, a weapon, and above all, a symbol of survival.

2. Hoods – Improvised Warmth for Cold Fronts

Warmth was always in short supply, and hoods—especially the gas hood—quickly became a battlefield hack. Originally intended for chemical protection, the thick material and snug fit made it a surprisingly effective cold-weather garment.

When paired with a field jacket, the gas hood sealed tightly and shielded the face and neck from harsh winds. It wasn’t regulation winter gear—but it worked, and that’s all that mattered to freezing men in foxholes.

1. Shelter Half – The Swiss Army Canvas

At first glance, the shelter half was just that—half of a two-man tent. But to resourceful soldiers, it was so much more. Issued with poles and pegs, the canvas sheet became a jack-of-all-trades.

From makeshift rain gear and sleeping covers to foxhole linings and camouflage screens, the shelter half proved endlessly useful. Soldiers wrapped themselves in it, covered their gear, and built quick shelter under fire. It wasn’t fancy, but its versatility made it the most beloved piece of fabric in the Army.