World War II Painting Guide: U.S. Airborne

I USE A COMBINATION OF VALLEJO, GW & LIQUITEX PAINT

The U.S. Airborne in World War II wore two different color variants. For North Africa, Sicily, Italy and Normandy, the M1942 desert colored jump uniform was standard issue. The darker and greener variant to the left as featured in the films Saving Private Ryan and Band of Brothers can also be achieved (see notes below).  

After September 1944, olive green uniforms were standard issue. Clothing issued for winter in 1944-1945 was the same as the U.S. infantry. Special touches: NCO’s had a horizontal white stripe on the back of the helmet, while officers sported a vertical stripe. I’ve taken the awesome Artizan Design color guide and modified it for my taste and, of course, using my washing technique provides for a more unique “battle-tested” look.

Helmet - Vallejo Russian Green

Helmet Straps - Liquitex Raw Sienna 330*

First Aid pouch on helmet - Vallejo US Field Drab held in place with 2 dark green pieces of tape

Early Uniform - Vallejo German Camo Beige

         Darker, Greener Variant - 25% U.S. Dark Green with 75% Middlestone

-   or Vallejo Green Grey with GW Camo wash

Late Uniform - Vallejo Brown Violet

Webbing - Vallejo Iraqi Sand or Dark Sand

Pistol Holster - Liquitex Raw Sienna 330*

Boots - Liquitex Raw Sienna 330*

Rifle - Gun stock Liquitex Raw Sienna 330; GW Boltgun Metal 

Thompson MG - GW Boltgun Metal, gun stock Liquitex Raw Sienna 330*

Bazooka - Vallejo Dark Green

BAR - GW Boltgun Metal; gun stock Liquitex Raw Sienna 330