3RAR 1951

In April the Chinese launched what was known as the 5th offensive, culminating in the Battle of Kapyong where the 27th Commonwealth Brigade held their ground against a division of Chinese troops. During this battle the men largely wore the same uniforms they had for the past months, that being the P43 service dress, P37 webbing and a mixture of US army winter gear. Following the battle and a reorganizational period, the brigade began its summer operations. This left many soldiers wearing their summer uniforms they had used in Japan. This consisted mostly of Second World War khaki drill uniforms and the occasional jungle greens. The uniforms were thrown together with what was available, and it was not uncommon to see a mix mash of gear.

June and July were the turning points in regard to equipment. From early July, the British began supplying all commonwealth troops in the field with the more modern Pattern 1944 webbing system. Un like the previous khaki P37, this new equipment was a deep green and supposedly rot resistant. During the months of Autumn, the men were also issued the new Pattern 48/49 battle dress uniform, modelled of the British dress from the last war. The men of 3RAR began to wear this from early October and are known to have switched from summer Khaki drill to the winter P49 battle dress mid-way through the battle of Maryang San.

Finally, as winter set in yet again, the men were issued with new British Pattern 1950 field ware, consisting of wind proof smock, over trousers and a field cap. On top of this thick winter parka’s were also issues.