Powder, Foot – First World War to the Present

The gangrenous condition known as “trench foot” plagued many 1WW soldiers on both sides of the fight. Keeping one’s feet dry became a top priority for every front-line soldier. Foot powder assisted with this task by absorbing moisture away from the skin and helping to clean away debris and reinvigorate the skin. Foot powder was typically applied prior to and after time in the field as regular foot inspections became mandatory. This foot powder belonged to a former unit Commanding Officer. It was issued in 1945.

Powder, Foot – First World War to the Present - image1Foot powder is a medicated powder designed explicitly for smelly, itchy feet created by sweat build-up in a soldier’s shoes and boots

Soldiers are kept on their feet often, whether it is for practice marches, parades, or in battles taking objectives. Along with changing socks, soldiers are also “strongly encouraged” (forced) to apply foot powder to their feet frequently to prevent infections such as ringworm or athlete’s foot. The powder helps to control moisture and the odour caused by bacteria. 

Description: Every British soldier carried one of these 1 3/4-oz khaki-colored tins of foot powder in his pack. It’s said “A soldier flights on his stomach.” but the foot soldier walks on his feet. In some militaries, it is considered a chargeable offence if a soldier’s feet are damaged enough from neglect s/he cannot perform their duties.

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