Historical information

In December 1941, 20th Light Horse (Victorian Mounted Rifles) converted from horse to mechanised initially as 20th Motor Regiment. In 1943 redesignated 20th Pioneer Battalion and deployed to Merauke, Dutch New Guinea. The regiment was disbanded at the end of the war, 1945. 20th Light Horse was the only one of the pre-war light horse regiments to serve overseas in WWII.

Significance

This object is well provenance and, in its condition and completeness, is a fine example of unusual headgear worn by Australian armoured corps soldiers in World War 2 (39-45).

Physical description

Khaki heavy cloth beret with 'Rising Sun' badge and 20th Motor Regiment colour patch.