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.

WW2 Socks (Long) Manufacturer details

Second World War Australian socks (long) with manufacturer details and dated 1944. The letter 'V' indicates that the socks were made in a factory located in the state of Victoria. The "A - broad arrow - F" notation, which can be found on other items - such as under garments; indicate that this item was actually made for the Air Force. Being such a large size (size 11 and a half) may be an indicator - as to why they have survived in this 'unissued' condition. Naturally, when the Second World War concluded - surplus military items were abundant. Virtually all garments which could be used in civillian life, were utilised by the population as they were generally sold cheaply to clear the Military stores. So all clothing, ranging from socks and underwear - through to tunics, trousers and hats were all worn out. This explains the scarcity of such items to this day. The socks in this image are light weight in construction and would generally have been worn with shorts by rear echelon personnel and officers. This photo courtesy of the Kokoda Historical Collection.

Woollen Sock Tops

Sock Tops, made from khaki coloured wool were issued to the troops as a cost cutting measure. Generally, long 'knee length' socks were worn with shorts. This could be in conjunction with the woollen puttees (leg wraps) or Pattern 37 Gaiters, to prevent sand and/or vegetation from working it's way down - inside the boot. However, long socks would eventually become useless when the foot portion became inundated with holes. To combat this, short socks could be substituted (as they were hidden away inside the boot) and the 'sock top' used as the "visible" part of the sock. This photo courtesy of the Kokoda Historical Collection.

Woollen Sock Tops (Manufacture details)

Manufacturer stamping, showing the maker and production date; which is this case is 1944. As with the Slouch Hat, the letter 'N' indicates that the item produced in a factory from New South Wales. The 'D - broad arrow - D' which is found on virtually all Australian Military items, indicates that they are Defence Department issue. This photo courtesy of the Kokoda Historical Collection.

Red Cross Talcum Powder

Talcum powder manufactured by "Simpsons" and issued by the Australian Red Cross Society during the Second World War. The photograph depicts the front and the reverse sides of the can. The instructions on the reverse side state:- Talcum Powder should be used freely and always after bathing. Rub well in between the toes and wherever there may be chafing. Sprinkling in the shoes and sox will assist in keeping the feet fresh and bright. This photo courtesy of the Kokoda Historical Collection.

Wish to learn more about ailments which affected the feet of the troops - for which this Foot Powder relates? Please see my "Boot Story" on the Kokoda Historical Website. See what Lieutenant Hugh DALBY M.C. (39th Battalion) had to say about this feet whilst fighting on the Kokoda Trail. PLEASE CLICK HERE

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