Swedish Soldier
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During WW2 Sweden remained neutral, and managed to prevent itself from becoming involved with the larger conflicts at the time. Sweden maintained a modern and effective armed force to protect it's independence. The Swedish soldiers were generally well equipped and well provided for. Clothing and other supplies sometimes had to be imported from other countries, and there were difficulties in maintaining a well resourced Military Force. This figure is dressed in a basic uniform of the Swedish Army.
The cap is a ski cap. It is woollen, with a cloth peak, and sides that fold down and button up around the mouth and neck for added protection against the cold. The cap is a close copy of the WW1 German Ski Troops cap, in fact some examples seen may be surplus WW1 German stock, displaying both German WW1 dates and regimental marks, as well as Swedish issue stamps during WW2.
The coat is a waterproofed cotton 'duck' material. The grey cotton is heavy and made of a strong fabric. The buttons and button holes are oversized to allow them to be used in extreme cold weather whilst still keeping a gloved hand. The collar is lined with a course fur, while the coat itself is lined with a white wool. There are two large waist pockets.
The undershirt is made of an open weave material and is collarless with three buttons in the front. The buttons are made of a metal that appears to be lead, this shirt is dated 1944.
Heavy woollen trousers are worn. The green-grey wool is strong and the
waist band and pockets are made of a grey herringbone material. The trousers
have the 'three crowns' acceptance mark of Sweden as well as a date stamp
of 1943. Other marks have been deleted, which still show a single crown
and a date that resembles 1.16. This stamp also is very similar to early
German acceptance marks. The cuffs of the trousers are tapered and have
cloth ties to bring the cuff in close to the ankle. These trousers show
striking similarities to the trousers of the WW1 German Army.
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