Historical information

The Samuel Browne belt is named after Sir Samuel James Browne VC. In 1858, Browne lost his left arm in battle (as a result of a sword cut) and as the dress regulations of his regiment required officers to wear their waist belts under their tunics, Browne found this ungainly and devised an external belt supported on the left-hand (sword) side by a shoulder strap. The belt had two shoulder straps when a holster was worn. In the Australian Army, a brown leather version is worn on ceremonial occasions by officers and Warrant Officers Class One of all corps, except those who wear silver dress embellishments (Armoured, Aviation and Nursing Corps). These members wear a black Sam Browne belt.

Physical description

Wide brown pattern stitched brown leather belt with adustable shoulder strap, brass buckle and brass loop fittings (4 at the top and 2 at the bottom) attached to the belt by stitched leather straps.

Inscriptions & markings

None

Subjects