The Army believed in the principle of layering to keep its soldiers warm. When the US entered the war, the issued items weren't adequate to both keep warm and be comfortable in combat. Items like the wool overcoat proved to be too cumbersome and even heavier when wet with melted snow or rain. Thus, the Army quickly began issuing sweaters to be worn as an additional layer.
The design of the high-neck, five button wool sweaters of WW2 have endured over the years and in to today. You can find a modern version of this 1940s design in surplus stores. Though very similar, the modern adaptation has adopted many changes. Typically, it is the color. It's hard to duplicate that Olive Drab/Brown color used in the WW2 pattern. Most modern versions are true brown, olive green (not to be confused with olive drab), and black. The brown would be your closest fit. Also, ensure that there are five buttons. Some modern variations have more. Another chief difference is along the collar and button down area. The pattern of material for the button flaps is alot more narrow compared to the 1940s version. And, on a more minor note, the ribbing on the elastic waist and cuffs are more fine in the modern version than that of the WW2 sweater.
Finding originals that fit or are in a condition to be worn can be difficult. With persistence (and some luck), you might be able to land one. However, if you get cold easy, a suitable replacement is a brown colored modern 5-button sweater.
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