4th Regiment USMC in Shanghai, 1930s

[Dan Morton]

I'm attaching a photo of two Marines on guard duty in Shanghai, sometime in the 30s. The Sgt on the left is armed with a Thompson, of course, and I'm pretty sure the Cpl is armed with a rifle in some kind of cover. Here's my question. Both Marines have a bag under their arm. It appears to be a gas mask bag and the way in which it is worn also fits with it being that. When I was in USAF, the first issue gas mask we were given had a bag like that and it was worn just about the same way. If it is a gas mask bag, then I know what those look like and can sculpt one complete with D rings and clips and belt buckles and the odd overall D shape. What say you gents?

All the best,
Dan

 

[KeithP]

Dan-

I am almost 100% sure that you are right. That looks to be a gas mask bag.
When I get home tonight, I'll take alook thru my Tulkoff's Grunt Gear Guide.
This is hand's down the best WW2 USMC gear guide I have seen. If you need specific pics on USMC gear pre and WW2, let me know and I'll scan them and email them to you.

Keith

 

[Dan Morton]

Keith - If they are gas mask bags, I know the general shape and stuff, but sure - I'll take any help I can get. I'll PM you my e-mail address.

All the best,
Dan

 

[captnenglish]

I concur (always wanted to say that)

 

[tonydawe]

Hi Dan,

Its definitely a US gas mask/ respirator.

Cheers