The US 1912 Cotton Uniform

[oskar2ndchev]

Every so often someone asks me if the cotton 1912 uniform is OK for use as part of a US Army impression (primarily because it's cheaper).

The answer, in a word, is NO.

In a nutshell, the 1912 cotton uniform was intended for use by troops during the warm months of the year by direction of the local commanding officer or places overseas like Hawaii, the Philippines and Panama.

The climate in Northern France tends to run cold and by express order, priority was given to supplying the troops with the 1912 wool uniform. Because of shipping restrictions and other logistical constraints, the cotton uniform was not issued to troops in Europe (and a lot of troops Stateside).

It was not until mid-1919, after the Armistrace that the cotton uniform was issued to troops returning home from occupation duty in Germany.

Botton line- the 1912 cotton uniform is not appropriate and will not be worn. Also, as a practical matter, it gets very cold out at Ozena and it will not provide any protection against the elements. So save your money and buy the proper uniform.

P.S. At this time, the only authorized vendors are Great War Militaria and Schipperfabrik.

[sapper44]

Thought I would share a photo I found of the unifrom at a flee market last weekend:

[oskar2ndchev]

Probably his "going home" uniform. :-) Troops going home in mid-1919 were issued the cotton uniform.

[joseph12]

FYI.

My Grandfather was stationed along the Rio Grande from 1917-1919 with a unit which ultimately became the 82nd Field Artillery and he is wearing his Cotton Uniform which I have. I noticed that this man has artillery collar tabs, so possibly never left the states.

[oskar2ndchev]

That's always possible. :-)

Don't forget to take a moment and introduce yourself in the introductions section. :-)