In June 1950, US soldiers and Marines deployed in the Korean War were dressed and equipped largely as they had been in the closing stages of World War II, but by 1953 major innovations had transformed their appearance. Improvisation and supply difficulties compounded by severe weather in the opening mobile battles gave way to positional warfare in 1951, providing the opportunity for US troops to customize their uniforms and gear. Flak jackets were introduced and the infantryman's basic load lightened substantially. These developments are explained and depicted in this fully illustrated study from an authority on the uniforms and personal gear of the Korean War period.

OSPREY PUBLISHING

Robert C. Mackowiak

Illustrated by Johnny Shumate

Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

First published in Great Britain in 2025

ISBN: 9781472862648

Index by Rob Munro

Typeset by PDQ Digital Media Solutions, Bungay, UK

Printed by Repro India Ltd.

48 pages