Men of the Algonquin Regiment, 10CIB, 4CAD moving up to the Hochwald Forest outside Udem, Germany. Two soldiers have their Shovels carried through the front of their webbing.  Some soldiers carried their shovels this way in the hope that it would deflect shrapnel or a snipers bullet.  The shovel was curved so the possibility that it might save your life was a definite maybe.  Photo taken March 1, 1945.

Canada's Algonquin Regiment

Infantry of the Cape Breton Highlanders, 11CIB, 5CAD move into their first action heavily laden with E-Tools on their left side and Shovels and Picks thrust through their Small Packs, Arielli, Italy, 17 Jan44.

Canada's Cape Breton Highlanders

Private J.A. Robb of The Loyal Edmonton Regiment looking through a shell hole in the foundation of a building, Colle d’Anchise, Italy, 27 October 1943.