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British soldier in uniform, 1915, WW1
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British soldier in uniform, 1915, WW1
A British private soldier, commonly known as a Tommy with annotations showing the tools and equipment that made up his kit when marching to the trenches during the First World War. Among the various items pointed out are his rifle, water bottle, entrenching tools and ammunition pouches. Date: 1915
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Media ID 14308928
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Ammunition Bottle Burden Knapsack Ordinary Pouches Private Rank Ranks Rifle Tommies Tommy Tools Entrenching
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This evocative photograph captures the image of a British private soldier, commonly referred to as a 'Tommy,' preparing to march towards the trenches during the First World War in 1915. The soldier is dressed in the standard-issue uniform of the time, complete with a peaked cap, puttees, and a heavy woolen greatcoat. Annotations on the photograph provide insight into the various tools and equipment that made up the Tommy's kit. The rifle slung over his shoulder is a Lee-Enfield No. 1 Mark III, a reliable and effective weapon that was widely used by British soldiers during the war. The water bottle suspended from his belt was a vital piece of equipment, allowing the soldier to stay hydrated during long marches and prolonged periods in the trenches. The soldier's entrenching tools, consisting of a shovel and a pick, are also visible. These tools were essential for digging trenches, fortifying positions, and creating defensive structures. The ammunition pouches on his belt held cartridges for his rifle, ensuring that he was well-equipped for combat. The Tommy's knapsack, which rested on his back, was a heavy burden to carry. It contained personal items, such as clothing, blankets, and mess equipment, as well as additional ammunition. The weight of this pack, combined with the weight of his rifle and other equipment, made for a formidable load that weighed down the soldier and made his movements slower and more laborious. This photograph provides a glimpse into the daily life of an ordinary British soldier during the First World War. Despite the hardships and challenges they faced, these men played a crucial role in the history of the Western Front and the eventual Allied victory in 1918.
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