Final answer:
The statement about soldiers buying their own gear is not directly addressed in the reference, but historical contexts suggest military supply systems have varied, and economic hardships during wars imply some form of logistical support.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that soldiers had to buy their own uniforms, weapons, and other equipment at the commissary is not directly confirmed or refuted by the provided reference material. However, it is known from historical context that military supply systems have varied greatly throughout history. If we consider the Revolutionary War, based on the reference that Revolutionary war soldiers were not well rewarded for their service, it could be inferred that these soldiers might have had difficulties in affording their own gear, but this does not directly confirm that they had to purchase it themselves.
Moreover, the information given does hint at economic hardships during different periods, such as wartime rationing during World War II, which suggests that logistical support mechanisms were in place in some form, though not necessarily indicating that soldiers personally purchased their gear from the commissary.