US Marine Infantry Combat Uniforms and Equipment 2000–12

Kenneth Ewald is a published scientist and illustrator who currently teaches at the American Military University. He has worked as an editor for two New York publishers, and has himself had military history articles published in Time and National Geographic magazines. This is his first book for Osprey.

• IntroductionOrganization of USMC infantry unitsIntroduction to uniforms and equipment: recent background – influences of other armed services US and foreign – the USMC quest for distinctive “branding” – the “private-purchase” phenomenonPrinted camouflage patterns – Woodland, Desert, MARPAT (temperate, desert, and snow variations)Field uniforms: BDU and DCU – combat utilities – flame-resistant gear – cold/wet weather clothing – boots and glovesLoad-carrying equipment: APILCE – IIFS – MOLLE – ILBE – FSBE – approved private-purchase commercial gearProtective garments and equipment: NBC – body armor – helmets – eye-protectionPersonal electronics: communications – night vision and sights – miscellaneousWeaponsBibliography