“Operation Husky”

The Sicilian Campaign

The Invasion of Sicily kicked off the Allies advance in the Mediterranean and eventual drive through Italy. The Sicilian Campaign only lasted from July 9th to August 17th 1943, resulting in the collapse of Mussolini’s government and allowed preparations for the invasion of mainland Italy in September.

Due to the relatively short period of the campaign and combat seen, troops in Sicily generally kept fairly uniform in appearance with what they were initially issued at the start of the invasion. This is in opposition to the ETO where longer exposure to combat, weather conditions, limited supply, and constant advances later in the war saw a varied and mixed appearance in troops across the front. The largest contributing factor to how troops in Sicily wore their uniform was the heat. Occurring at the height of the Sicilian Summer and in dry, rocky and dusty terrain, temperatures averaged around 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit throughout Operation Husky. The common uniform of the U.S. Infantryman during this time was the standard OD Wool Uniform, often with rolled sleeves, and rarely any field jackets in sight.

• White A or T-Shirt, OD A-shirt

• OD Wool Shirt and Trousers

• Type II or III Service Shoes with Leggings

• M1 Helmet with Liner

• OD Helmet Net, 1/2” (Standard Size)

• M1928 Cartridge Belt

• M1924 or M1942 First Aid Pouch

• M1910 Canteen Cover

• Canteen and Cup

• M1910 Entrenching Tool and Cover

• M1905 or M1 Bayonet and Scabbard

• M1928 Haversack

• M1A1 Training Gasmask Bag

• 2nd Armored SSI

• Garrison Cap, Infantry w/ 41st DUI