Trench Coat

By Crusader1307

Next to the iconic “Brodie” Helmet – perhaps no other piece of World War I Military Uniform is as well known as the steadfast Trench Coat. Variations of early garments very similar to The Coat are seen as far back as the 1850s during The Crimean War. The traditional Trench Coat of The “War To End All Wars” was made an official part of The British Army in 1901. Envisioned (and accepted) as a multi-purpose Garment, The Coat was ideal in Rain, being made out of “treated” and stretched rubber over Linen. In some cases, a reinforced woolen panel was sewn into the interior of the Coat to help retain warmth during The Winter. Although originally reserved for The Officer-Class, by the start of World War I in Europe, all Soldiers were issued one. Outer components included various sewn straps and metal looping hooks, from which equipment could be attached. This was seen ideal in Trench Warfare. Often The Trench Coat (so named for it’s constant usage and sight in The Trenches of The War), had as many as 8 pockets. They were made in Black, Tan (Khaki) and of course Olive Drab Green. By the time of America’s involvement in The War, as many as 1 Million such Trench Coats were manufactured for Allied use. The Trench Coat would continue well into World War II and beyond (although many of these Models were made of chemically treated wool). Variations can still be seen (in form) – with many World Armies even today.