The soldier and airman fighting in the North West Europe campaign of 1944-45 was an experienced and well-trained combatant. Many were veterans of the Desert war, and new recruits received the benefits of experience gained from the first four years of the War.
Uniforms differed slightly as economy measures were introduced and equipment was upgraded from the patterns abandoned during the withdrawal to Dunkirk. Spirit of Britain’s impressions include infantry, signallers, tank crews and drivers. As the ‘Tommy’ got accustomed to his new environment, some items of issued kit were discarded and other pieces took their place. For example, gas masks were ‘lost’ and pieces of civilian clothing were found to make life more comfortable and useful. Some items were sent from home, and yet further items of German origin were employed, such as boots, belts and side arms. Equipment was also swapped between the Allies and British soldiers can often be seen in photos sporting American and Canadian kit.
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