Historical information

The blue forage cap (frequently referred to as a side cap, wedge cap, or garrison cap) during World War II was a practical, foldable soft cap widely adopted by air forces and naval units, most notably by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and Commonwealth aircrews. In bomber and fighter squadrons, a well-worn, battered forage cap became an informal badge of honor, distinguishing seasoned veterans from new arrivals ("sprogs").

Physical description

A navy blue woolen WW11 Officer's Forage Cap with shaped folded sides. It has a fastening at the front with two small brass buttons with wings and a crown insignia attached. Inside is a brown lining with a brown velvet band at the top. A large safety pin on the lining holds the crown closed from the outside. The clips to hold the badges on the outside can be seen inside on the lining. It was issued in 1943.

Inscriptions & markings

Inside the cap is stamped: 'MV(faded unknown letter)D 58'