A Really Scarce WWI US Army 'Doughboy' Canvas Webbing Grenade Vest Pack Dated 1918. In Superb Condition.

Made by the Troy Carriage Sunshade Co. May 1918. 11 flap pockets in excellent condition. US inspector stamped.
Original American Army service kit of WW1 is really rare in the UK, and this is a superb example.

"Doughboy" was a popular nickname for US infantry soldiers, particularly during World War I. The origin of the term is debated, but it's widely believed to stem from the Civil War, possibly referencing the large brass buttons on uniforms or a practice of using clay to whiten uniform piping. Regardless of the exact origin, "Doughboy" became the common nickname for American soldiers in WWI, especially those serving in the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF).

According to the "Manual for Hand Bombers and Rifle Grenadiers", published in July 1918,

The number of grenades which can be carried by each man will be determined by the distance he has to travel, the condition of the ground and the general physique of the man. These points demand the most careful consideration, as the overloading of the men has frequently had disastrous results.

The following approximate numbers are given as a guide:

Hand Bomber Section

(a) Scouts, throwers and N.C.O.'s, each man 7 grenades

(B) carriers, each man 14 grenades



Rifle Grenadier Section

(a) Rifle grenadier, each 7 grenades

(B) Rifle grenadier carrier, each 14 grenades

All other infantrymen taking part in the

attack, each man 2 Rifle or hand grenades

Carrying parties, each man 14 grenades

Code: 17220