| British enlisted man’s trench cap (WWI) Since the stiff service caps were impractical in the trenches, in 1917, the British Army issued the first of these “soft” trench caps, which feature the characteristic stitching along the visor. Although most caps of this design were made of wool and waterproofed with an interior lining of tarred cotton, the cap shown here is of cotton twill, which was better suited for wear during the summer and in warm climates. The original owner cut out most of the lining, presumably to make it even lighter. The badge is for the King’s Royal Rifle Corps featuring the red felt backing that is peculiar to this regiment. The black chinstrap is also a special feature of rifle units. |
|
   Detail of the characteristic stitched visor. |