For the Poilu, 1916 was the year of the start of the massive series of battles that are lumped under the heading of Verdun. Practically every French regiment participated in these battles. All of them sacrificed, but some much more than others; a few were all but wiped out.

No one knew it was the middle year of the war. All the average infantryman could look forward to was more butchery.

1916 was also the year of the introduction of the Adrian helmet and the increased use of light machine guns such as the Chauchat.

The text and images in the .pdf file attached come from the web site http://www.lesfrancaisaverdun-1916.fr/uniforme1024.htm. This is an invaluable practical reference for French uniforms and equipment. The unidentified author has done a fine job and we appreciate the result!

More photos...
Additional photos some of which are from Armes Militaria and Gazette des Uniformes magazine back issues are attached from other sources.