Late-War

What we generally call the “Late-War” period for the 2nd Armored Division is the point between Late-February of 1945 to the end of the war in May 1945. Having been pulled off the line after stunting and exploiting the failed German offensive in Belgium, the 2nd Armored were in a period of rest and refit for the remainder of January into February of 1945. At this point troops of the 41st Infantry were finally in an area with consistent supply lines in the rear, and were outfitted and resupplied with the newer uniforms, replacements, field gear, and proper winter equipment. In this refit period the division was also preparing for the last big push across the Rhine and into the heart of Germany. “Operation Grenade” was to be the initial step-off operation that effectively began the beginning of the end. For most troops who experienced this part of the war, the feeling was effectively “push into Germany, keep pushing, and don’t stop until it’s done.” SSgt. Paul Andert of 1/41st Infantry wrote “The war was now taking on a new phase for us. We were to push on all day and night until we ran out of supplies and hold up until re-supplied. During this time we lost all feelings as to date and time. It became a case of move on until you draw fire and then engage and wipe out the resistance.”.

Most troops began this campaign with new field uniforms (M43’s), combat boots, winter gear, gas mask bags, new OD7 web gear, among some of their older veteran equipment. As the push dragged on, troops of the 2nd Armored became more of a ragged motley crew. Despite pushing clean through Germany with a clear supply line trailing behind them, the only things that mattered for resupply were fuel and ammunition. Stopping for anything more was out of the question. As SSgt. Paul Andert stated by March “Our mission would be defined as “Move out until you meet resistance.” Then, either eliminate it, or if it was too strong, find a way around it and continue east until you ran out of fuel or ammunition or both. We were moving day and night. We had very little to eat and almost no sleep. Exhaustion was a word not even considered. Things were moving so fast that it was not possible to remember the exact sequence of operations those last months of the war.“

• White A or T-Shirt, OD A-shirt

• OD Wool Shirt and Trousers

• OD Field Jacket (M1941)

• Winter Combat Jacket (Tanker Jacket)

• Field Jacket, M1943

• Field Trousers, M1943

• Field Jacket Hood, M1943

• Type II or III Service Shoes with Leggings

• Combat Boots (M43 “Double Buckles”)

• M1 Helmet with Liner

• OD Helmet Net, 1/2”

• Helmet Net, OD, 1/4” (Shrimp Net)

• M1928 Cartridge Belt

• M1924 or M1942 First Aid Pouch

• M1910 Canteen Cover

• Canteen and Cup

• M1943 Entrenching Tool and Cover

• M1 Bayonet and Scabbard

• M1928 Haversack

• M3 Lightweight Gasmask Bag

• Garrison Cap, Infantry w/ 41st DUI

OD7 Field Gear is often seen during this time period and is encouraged