Historical information

Possibly Vietnam era hat, based on date of manufacture.

Significance

This hat is an example of Vietnam era military headwear.

Physical description

Hat, or military peak cap of olive drab fabric. Base of cap has four metal rimmed air holes at rear above band. Cap has brown leather chin strap with double band of leather across the front of visor secured by a single leather loop on each side. The chinstrap is attached to the cap at both ends, with gold buttons featuring Australian army insignia. Inside of cap has a brown leather band, attached with brown thread in a zig zag stitch; the other end of brown headband is unstitched. The cap is lined with olive green fabric which is synthetic in appearance, and covered with a clear sweat shield. A manufacturer’s label in white fabric is sewn to the centre of the inner liner. A white, rectanguar identification label is attached to the inner band.

Inscriptions & markings

‘MADE EXPRESSLY FOR DEPARTMENT OF SUPPLY 1968-69 “EMERCO” MELBOURNE’ on inner leather band in gold.
‘M. REINER &CO.PTY LTD SIZE (BLUE ARROW LOGO DENOTING DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE) 6 5/8 VICTORIA AUSTRALIA’ on label in blue print at centre of inner cap.
‘REGIMENTAL NO.______________ NAME____________’ in black print, side of cap.