Original German WWII Pioneer Combat Engineer Assault Side Pouch (Pioniersturmgepäck) with Italian Ammunition Carton (Empty) *U.S. Veteran Bringback*The purpose of the Pioniersturmgepäck was to allow Pioneer troops to carry additional equipment they may need in combat. A complete Pioniersturmgepäck set would include two side pouches and a central pack. This left side pouch was intended for additional explosives and grenades in two compartments. There are a series of four vertical rifle ammunition pockets on the side intended to carry ammunition in stripper clips.
This is a U.S. Veteran Bringback - The veteran's name "Lt. R.J. Murtha" and serial number "O-739109" remain clearly legible on the reverse. The "O-" signifies that Lt. R.J. Murtha was a commissioned officer.
Also included (it was found inside the pouch) is an empty Italian ammunition carton. It has been well preserved inside the pouch. The Italian ammunition carton marked:
"N. 5 Caricatori di Cartucce a Pallottola Cal. 7.35 per Fucile Mitragliatore – Polvere alla Nitrocellulosa Pura"
The box is inspection dated 31 MAG. 1939 (31 May 1939) at Capua and originally contained five chargers of 7.35mm Carcano ammunition. The carton remains in very good condition and still retains its internal cardboard dividers.
Condition:
The pouch shows honest field use with scattered staining, age discoloration, and light wear throughout. The waterproof interior lining exhibits cracking and flaking from age, as commonly encountered. The canvas remains strong, with all straps (except the strap that would link the pouches/pack together is missing, see photo 6), drawstring, buckles, and stitching intact.
The Italian ammunition box displays only light handling wear and remains complete with its internal dividers.
Overall, this is a nice WWII bringback grouping consisting of a named canvas utility pouch and an original pre-war dated Italian 7.35mm ammunition box.
