Rare and Wonderful Color Photos of Canadian Soldiers in World War II

These wonderful color photos made during World War II by Canadian Army photographers. The majority were taken on Kodachrome film--significant, as Kodachrome is by far the most stable color film, resulting in colors that are just as vibrant today as in 1943.

The photographs range from staged to very staged, but the view they offer of the kinds of pictures the Canadian government wanted is fascinating in itself. Color film was still quite rare, as well, and it is clear that most of the shots were chosen to maximize its impact.

Canadian and Dutch soldiers in field of 'wild cabbage'.

Canadian soldiers making selection of apples under Italian sun.

Canadian tankmen on manoeuvres cook outdoors, beside their ram tanks.

Canadians view church ruined by Allied bombs in France.

Cpl. Bill Kay strolls with nursing sister Dorothy Rapsey.

Flying operation in Italy.

Machine gun captured by Canadian soldiers.

Mortar fire in France.

Photograph titled "Gossip from Home," taken in Italy.

Russian officer inspecting Canadians.

Alberta tankmen relax with card game near Vaucelles, France.

Basic training in Lansdowne Park, Ottawa.

Three Canadian nursing sisters in North Africa .

Trooper Frank Grummett with girls from Armentières, France.

(Photos via Library and Archives Canada)