Historical information

In 1951 - in the context of the Cold War - the Menzies government established the 'National Service Act 1951', which called-up men for compulsory military training for a period of 176 days. The 14th Battallion was located in Victoria.

Significance

The coat has historic significance in the wider context of Australia’s involvement in the Cold War (particularly in Vietnam) and in the establishment of a National Service Scheme.

Physical description

Olive green army man coat with four outside pockets - two on the chest, two at the bottom; each pocket has one metallic button attached. Coat has a metallic zip as well as metallic buttons; two velcro scratches at the wrist level. Extra removable padding inside, which is attached with plastic buttons. Two identical inscriptions on right and left shoulder reading '14 National Service Battalion'.

Inscriptions & markings

Two identical inscriptions on right and left shoulder - reading '14 National Service Battalion'
Manufacturing details on the inside reading: Coat, Cold weather, Man's, Field M-65. Olive green colour. Style 8120/8542 DSA 102-81-C1204. 1. Wear as outer garment or as under-layer in cold-dry climate. 2. Wear button-in liner for added insulation. 3. Adjust closures and drawcords to ventilate; avoid over-heating of body. 4. When hood is used, lower extension shall be worn over neck opening, preventing water. 5. Brush snow or frost from garments before entering opening. 6. For fast drying, remove liner from coat. 7. Do not expose to high temperature of a stove. 8. Lubricate slide fasteners with wax. 9. For cleaning and restoring of water repellency return to laundry for machine washing in accordance with established procedures for quarpel garments. 10. Do not starch. Do not remove this label.
Black ink pen inscription on manufacturing label reading '3/715875' and 'N.Wain'