7 replies to this topic

[Gmanx]

An unusual request, this, but I need to find out what kit the WYorks regt (Leeds Rifles) would be issued with for the battle of Cambrai on Nov20, 1917.

I'm making an animated film of my grandad's experiences, and want to depict him as accurately as possible.

Being November, he may have a leather/sheepskin jerkin on top of his regular uniform, and be carrying quite a bit of kit. This is as far as I've got with how he looks:



I appreciate that there's quite a bit to add - and would be very greatful for any help, especially if anyone has pictures of the kit and how it was worn - particularly in the heat of battle.

I'll continue my research - including of course, scouring these very boards, but any help will speed up the process no-end.

Cheers,

Gary.

[ScottM]

cruise through here it will help you out, the helve and bayonet would more off the hip and around back, your placement would just hinder movement, decent job so far!

http://www.karkeeweb...index.html#home

[Gmanx]

Wow - thanks ScottM - for both the link and the good advice. That's exactly what I need, and exactly why these boards are such a great resource.

[paul owen]

I'm looking forward to seeing the film and I can tell from the first pic that you've got the talent.

I've nothing to add  about Cambrai in particular but a couple of constructive comments on what you've done so far;-

- The gasmask case- looks a bit too 'full' and smooth considering what was in there , and the press-studs are too big and should be nearer the corners.
- The shoulder straps would have metal regimental badges.

- The wirecutters - don't think I've ever seen these actually worn in photos. (maybe just for raiding parties?)
- The helmet and boots too shiny. The helmet may have been a rough sandy texture (possibly apple green) with either a hessian cover or a divisional emblem painted on.
- The divisional symbol would also be shown as cloth badge on the upper arms. There's a book by MIke Chappel which I've got and which is good on this. If no-one posts on this then ask me to look it up.
- The left hand ammo pouches would have a slightly different construction.

There' s also the possibility that this regiment used the very different 1914 pattern leather equipment, which is another kettle of fish!



Good luck on what you're doing. I've put your website into my favourites!

Paul

[Wardog]

Might be worth looking at pictures on living history sites such as The Rifles http://t8hants.tripod.com/index.html   The Great War Society, http://www.thegreatwarsociety.com/ 10th Essex etc.
My partner's Great Grandfather died in that battle while with the 4th Bn. Worcestershire Regiment. Good luck with your project. Best wishes, Paul.

[4thGordons]

One thing - and I am not entirely sure of this - so I am prepared to be corrected.
I think perhaps the SBR bag would have been worn the other way around so the flap dropped away from the body and could be tucked away and not interfere with the hose.
Most pictures of US soldiers show them wearing it that way (same pattern as British)
and THIS PHOTOGRAPHof Australians also shows the bag worn the other way around. (so the poppers which are quite prominent on you rendering, would not be visible) -- as I said there are people on here better qualified than I to confirm this.
Chris

[Gmanx]

Thank you all for your great advice. Back to gathering research for now, then I'll post an amended illustration in here as soon as I have something to show. I'm learning at quite a pace, and there's so much to take in.

[squirrel]

4thGordons, on 22 July 2012 - 12:05 AM, said:

One thing - and I am not entirely sure of this - so I am prepared to be corrected.
I think perhaps the SBR bag would have been worn the other way around so the flap dropped away from the body and could be tucked away and not interfere with the hose.
Most pictures of US soldiers show them wearing it that way (same pattern as British)
and THIS PHOTOGRAPHof Australians also shows the bag worn the other way around. (so the poppers which are quite prominent on you rendering, would not be visible) -- as I said there are people on here better qualified than I to confirm this.
Chris

Respirator case should be worn with the flap inwards as you say - easier to get the mask out in a hurry.

Helmet chinstrap more likely to be worn behind the back of the head.