South Finland, January 1940.

Twenty days since the mercury last climbed above zero. 

Two months of traction-less fighting forced the Red Army to hold positions and regroup, about a kilometer south of our emplacements.

The Soviets are suffering greatly from exposure.

On our end, the Swedish volunteers arrived yesterday with a generous quartermaster in tow. Overnight, our whole standard of outfitting has elevated.

Soft wool socks, goose-down blankets, fur-lined leather gloves. Chief among the inventory, however, are these undershirts.

They layer like a second skin beneath our combat dress.

At night, we open the buttons at the neck and don them as pajama tops.

When Torbjörn and Nils talk before bed, it’s often about spending next summer at their uncle’s marina in Goteborg. I imagine them crewing the family schooner with that same waffled cotton snapping at the waist.

Wearing one of these, it’s easy to picture myself alongside them.

Swedish Military Shirt (No. 6055). Breathable honeycomb-patterned cotton that stacks perfectly as a thermal layer or stands alone in mild weather. Three fabric covered buttons at placket. Tonal twill at collar, placket, and cuffs. Issuing stamp at the base of the placket. Imported.