WWII US Marine Raider - Bougainville 1943

Marine Raider Battalions are some of the most well known and storied units of WWII. Eventually I'd like to cover a variety of Raiders and their huge differences in uniforms and equipment between different campaigns. For this one, I opted for what most people would picture a Raider to look like; in Frogskin camo and standard web gear, which left Bougainville as the best candidate.

This figure is largely based off the popular image of Marine Corporal William Coffron, providing cover fire behind a palm tree. As in the photo, the figure is wearing the P1942 frogskin camouflage uniform with matching helmet cover. Contrary to popular conception, the P1942 uniforms saw more limited use in WWII than one might expect, largely just by the 2nd and 3rd Marine Divisions on Bougainville and Tarawa. I found it was an interesting historical note that marines would often ditch these in the field due to the less breathable printed fabric that was quick to sun fade (ironically leading to less concealment compared to the regular HBT uniform). In any case, the P1942 frogskin uniform is still one of my favorites and is essential for recreating some of the more iconic imagery from the Pacific.

I've developed entirely new art for this uniform, using the original Frogskin pattern and colors to create the most accurate rendition on the market. It's not quite as simply as slapping camo over the P1941 uniform, as the jacket and trousers themselves are completely different construction allowing for reversibility. His loadout is pretty light, only shown in the source photo to be carrying his rifle cartridge belt with an army canteen cover, and Raider Bowie knife. These V44 knives specially purchased by the Raider Battalions were much larger than the standard Ka-Bars, and often personalized by the Marines as a coveted item. My art includes the EGA attached to the sheath, as well as some western engraving, both commonly seen done on real examples. 

I based this figure off the most typical, camouflaged Raider I could find, making it a great figure to include in any of your jungle patrol MOCs. I'm looking forward to exploring some more variations of the unique gear and uniforms the Raider Battalions used as well, so keep an eye out in the future!

Original Proof Copy - 1 of 1, first complete minifigure out of the printer. Signature by Landon Reimer, sealed plastic collectors slab with Brick Warp artwork, original Marine frogskin camouflage material sample. 

Collectors Edition - Signature by Landon Reimer, sealed plastic collectors slab with Brick Warp artwork, original Marine frogskin camouflage material sample. 

Base Model - Complete figure in hand-stamped numbered case inspired by WWII era packaging. Not sealed. This packaging again, is hand-stamped and is not intended to look perfect. 

• Custom printed BrickArms M1 Steel Pot helmet with jungle/green frogskin artwork 
• Custom printed minifigure head 
• P1942 camouflage utility uniform
• Marine contract M1923 cartridge belt 
• Army M1910 canteen cover
• P1912 Marine first aid pouch
• V44 Raider Bowie Knife (theater modified)
• Navy N1 (Boondocker) Boots
• Inside leg printing 
• Holographically sealed packaging (original and collectors edition) 
• Original frogskin camouflage poncho sample (original and collectors edition)
• Hand stamped WWII inspired packaging (base model)

Information Info: Art and printing by Lando (that’s me!) on genuine factory direct Lego minifigure elements & BrickArms headgear.

Legal Disclaimer: This is not a LEGO® Product. LEGO and the LEGO minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group, which does not sponsor, authorize, or endorse this product. The LEGO Group is not liable for any loss, injury or damage arising from the use or misuse of this product.