BACKGROUND: When the U.S. Army decided to create a standardized combat uniform that could be used in place of all the specialized combat clothing being worn by the different branches of service. The M43 field uniform was the result. The M43 field jacket was designed as a replacement for the OD field jacket which was found to be less than satisfactory. It used a layered design so that it could be used in cold and temperate conditions depending on what was worn beneath it.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: An olive drab, lightly padded, 3/4 length, canvas jacket. It has a six button French fly front closure, two patch saddlebag breast pockets and two horizontal slash, internal hip pockets, all four with scalloped button down flaps, which hide the buttons. The button cuffs have outside sleeve slashes with internal wind flaps. The fold back lapels have a, dual button holed, turn up flap under left lapel with a securing button. The lay down collar has a button under each forward edge, for the fold up flap and/or hood attachment while to each shoulder are button down shoulder straps. The fully lined interior comes with a tunnel looped drawstring at waist line. The jacket has a chest measuring approximately 36". White label is to the interior of the left facing hip pocket that shows the size as "34R", as well as the manufacture name, designation and manufacture date (November 13, 1943). Attached is the M43 field jacket hood.