I’m not sure about most of the details of this particular pic, but shock troops in WW1 would coordinate their attacks very tightly, down to the minute, making watches a necessity.
The square device is likely a flashlight for night attacks, similar to this one:
LOVE to read about his gear, particularly the pistol and watch (?). And what is the rectangular object clipped to his chest?
I’m not sure about most of the details of this particular pic, but shock troops in WW1 would coordinate their attacks very tightly, down to the minute, making watches a necessity.
The square device is likely a flashlight for night attacks, similar to this one: