Pack System and Web Gear. The standard issue web gear for the Marines in WWII after mid-1942 consisted of the M1928 cartridge belt, model 1941 Marine Corps belt suspenders (designed to support the weig ht of the cartridge belt and the pack), canteen and cup with cover (often worn in pairs, one on each hip), first aid packet and pouch, mess gear (consisting of a meat can with cover and knife, fork and spoon), a pack (model 1941) consisting of a haversack and knapsack, a blanket, an entr enching tool - shovel (M1912 T-handle or M1943 folding shovel - issued after late 1943) or pick mattock. Although issued, the service gasmask was rarely carried.

Poncho, Camouflage. The camouflage poncho was first issued in 1943. It was made of doub le weight material with a green camouflage on one side, and brown on the other. The poncho coul d also be used as a makeshift shelter.

Tent, Shelter Half. Each Marine was issued one shelter half, one pole, five pegs and one guy line. Up until late 1943, only khaki shelter halfs were issued. After late 1943, camoufla ge shelter halfs began being issued, but only to new troops or as replacements to damaged halfs.