~ 1949 Pattern Battledress Uniform Set (Buffs) Royal East Kent Regiment ~
~ 1949 Pattern Battledress History ~
The 1949 pattern battledress was the last in a series of uniforms adopted by the British Army that had replaced the former Service Dress since 1940. Consisting of a short blouse and long trousers, both of khaki serge, it had been been modified with a variety of refinements continually, and this is an example of the last in that line, before being finally replaced by a two piece combat suit for field service and working dress, and the No.2 Dress for ceremonial duties. Each soldier was issued with two suits of Battledress (known as "BD"), with one set for working dress, the other as a parade uniform, or "Best BD". Finally, the BD passed into history when conscription ended and No.2 Dress began to be issued to the new all-volunteer army in 1961, however, Territorials were still to wear it until 1967 and cadets of both the Army Cadet Force and schools' Combined Cadet Force phased it out in 1975.
~ Royal East Kent Regiment (The Buffs) History ~
The Buffs, officially known as The Queen's Own Buffs, originated in 1572 with Sir Thomas Belasyse's formation. It evolved through various names and affiliations, including Prince George of Denmark's Regiment. In World War I, the regiment fought in major battles, including the Somme and Ypres, showcasing courage and resilience. During World War II, The Buffs saw action in key campaigns such as the North African Campaign and the Italian Campaign. Post-WWII, the regiment merged into The Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment, later becoming part of The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment, reflecting its long and storied military heritage.
~ General Service Medal 1918-62 Issue with Oman or Aden Clasp ~
This medal is issued to 23253943 PTE. M.J. Button. Buffs. He would have been awarded this G.S.M (General Service Medal) clasp after 30 days of service between 1 January 1957 and 30 June 1960, in the Aden Colony or protectorate and the Sultanates of Muscat and Oman, or any of the adjacent Gulf states.
~ Condition ~
The Battledress (BD) is in good condition with minor moth damage, as shown on the inside leg of the trousers. The blouse is in impeccable condition with the shoulder patches in good condition and stitching remains intact throughout the entire blouse. The inside of the BD Trousers shows some deterioration and this is limited to the stamps and size. The BD Blouse is dated 1952.
