Original* Australian Army Slouch Hat Decorated with a 3rd Field Squadron; 9th Combat Engineer Unit Colour Patch and the Australian Army Rising Sun Badge. 22441:9. Original* Australian Army Slouch Hat Decorated with a 3rd Field Squadron; 9th Combat Engineer Unit Colour Patch and the Australian Army Rising Sun Badge. 22441:9. Clothing

The slouch hat is an object strongly associated with Australian identity. The word ‘slouch’ refers to the sloping brim. The brim is made from rabbit-fur felt or wool felt and is always worn with a puggaree. The Army refers to the slouch hat by its official designation - hat khaki fur felt (KFF). The slouch hat became a famous symbol of the Australian fighting man during World War One and continued to be worn throughout World War Two. Its use since that time has made it a national symbol. The origins of the slouch hat began with the Victorian Mounted Rifles in 1885. The Victorian hat was an ordinary bush felt hat turned up on the right side to ensure it would not be caught during the drill movement of 'shoulder arms' from 'order arms'. The 3rd Field Squadron, 9th Combat Engineer Squadron is unit of 9th Brigade, 2nd Division, and provides combat engineer support to the brigade. The role of the Combat Engineer Regiment is to carry out battlefield-oriented engineering tasks, generally in support of the Brigade’s Infantry battalions. In many cases, the Combat Engineer Squadron will require Plant support from the Plant Troop. This example is in superb condition. The puggaree, felt, stitching and faux leather liner and strap are all in very good order. The maker and size is printed on the inner liner. The price includes UK delivery. 22441:9.