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 cotton 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. There is a brass badge with an albatross/eagle and a king's crown above. Inside is a black cotton lining with a blue velvet band at the top. There is a white cotton piece of cloth with the cap details stitched inside. The clips to hold the badge on the outside can be seen inside on the lining.

Inscriptions & markings

Sewn inside the cap on a white piece of cotton is stamped: 'V330 1944 Made in Australia Size 71/8 A-(arrow)F' A sewn name tag 'Sumner' is stitched too.