US Pattern 1941 combat utility cap

[Anderson]

The US Marines early in the Pacific war were issued the P1941 combat utility cap in HBT. The 1941 model was softer and crushable unlike the P1944. Early ones also in the Sage green colour.

In August 1943 the New Zealand 3rd Division arriving at Guadalcanal found their "khaki drill other ranks" uniforms too heavy weight and changed to using the US HBT uniforms, including the CU cap. A softer more comfortable fabric for the tropics. Photos exist from Vella Lavella island in the Solomon Island group of the HBT uniform and combat utility cap being worn by New Zealanders. The cap often personalized by the NZ troops with addition of the "Onward" badge from their lemon squeezer hats. This is an example of one in my Pacific collection.

[reneblacky]

Very Nice Anderson.

[AZPhil]

That is very nice and a unique item to see being worn by the NZ troops. I didn't know about that.The photo's add to the item and the story.
Excellent piece and Very Cool.
Semper Fi
Phil

[Rescue190]

Very nice uncommon item. Thank you for posting.
John

[gel65]

Very cool, first I've seen. Thanks for sharing