Weapon identification please

[David Lehmann]

Hello this photo is from a package about French troops in Italy. I would like to identify the weapon of this soldier please.

Regards,

David

[Jack Nisley]

Possibly Johnson .30 Model 1941 Light Machine Gun? Long unsupported barrel, side mounted magazine, ventilated handguard. I think I can see its distinctive front sight at the end of the barrel. Used by First Special Service Force (Devil's Brigade) in Italy.

Jack Nisley

[David Lehmann]

Many thanks Jack Yes I think it is this weapon :



David

[Jack Nisley]

David, I wonder if the soldier in the picture is correctly identified? It's a US helmet which I believe was also common to the CEF, but look at the combat boots and the way he has bagged his pantslegs above the boots. Wasn't the German nickname for the First Special Service Force "Devils in Baggy Pants"? Could be a US or Canadian member of 1 SSF.

Jack Nisley

[David Lehmann]

Yes it's a 1st US SF soldier, in fact in this reportage pack there were 4-5 photos including French from the CEFI and US soldiers present on the same photos, this one was included too but I definitively think it's a US soldier yes. Checked the original caption and it says it is a US SF soldier.

David

[Patrice]

Hello.
The boots are the new model received in Italy by the FSSF(First Special Service Force) and called Buckle Boots or Boots,Service,Combat .
Patrice

[gewehrdork]

The "light Johnson was also issued to the USMC. I new a veteran ( George Decher RIP ) whom acquired one in the time old fashion ( from an eternally sleeping comrade ) and used it too good effect on japanese snipers , cave/bunker busting , and to participate in the knockdown of an already smoking Betty as it flew treetop level over him and his buddies sitting in the back of a duece and a half while driving through an okinawan jungle "road" potting snipers. He really did like the firepower - but only had the one magazine.