RAF Beret

[Adrian Stevenson]

Hi Guys, this item of uniform was first introduced in 1943 for wear by the RAF Regiment. This was a new departure for the RAF. As the war progressed the beret was worn by more and more trades, mostly ground crew and the like. But it never replaced the "Field Service cap" until after the War. This beret, like the Army's "GS Cap" of 1943, was not really a true beret, being a multi peice construction item made from several peices of cloth.

As can be seen, the beret was cut large. The one illustrated here, from my collection, is a early post war issue and is dated 1948. It has never been issued.

Cheers, Ade.

[Adrian Stevenson]

A view from the back. As can be seen, this beret does not have adjustment tapes in the leather sweatband like the Army's berets. Two air vents can also be seen.

[Adrian Stevenson]

Here is a complete departure from other British berets of the period. A piece of red fibreboard backing which provides a stiffening to the cap badge and will make the beret sit correctly. This material is the same as used for British identity disks of the era. The cap badge worn on this beret was either the conventional RAF brass other ranks badge or the austerity issue in black plastic. As can be seen the badge was mounted through the two eyelets.

[Adrian Stevenson]

Makers stamp and date of 1948. Note the official name of the cap "Berets, cloth blue grey". The "22 F/.." is the RAF stock control number.