Concealing shoulder straps

In 1916 a small strap was added to the shoulder so the shoulder strap could be unbuttoned and folded back in order to hide the cipher or unit number. The soldier in the middle has cloth covers over his. Later in the war the straps were removed while on maneuvers.

Eight different uniforms

An undated card with eight different uniforms including a musician with his swallowtails.

Fred

This is Fred. That is the only identification on these cards. He has the collar insignia of the Quartermaster Corps. He and his buddy are wearing their wool overcoats, gloves and winter hats.

"Le pantalon rouge c'est la France!"

Before the war there was talk about changing the French uniform. Other countries were adopting less colorful uniforms. The famous cry from Minister of War Eugene Etienne to parliament was "Eliminate the red trousers ? Never! The red pants are France!" So the French soldier marched off to battle wearing bright red pants. The British in khaki and the Germans in field grey.

Three members of the 170th regiment wearing their double breasted overcoats.


This photo was taken in Rochefort. It is dated October 4th, 1914.