*US, WWII, U.S. Marine Corps Khaki Cotton Summer Service Garrison Cap (“Pisscutter”), Size 6⅞*
A genuine United States Marine Corps khaki cotton summer service garrison cap, often referred to by Marines as a “pisscutter.” The cap is constructed in khaki cotton twill and follows the distinctive Marine Corps pattern with rounded crown corners and the characteristic narrow expansion panel running the full length of the crown, a feature that distinguishes the USMC design from the simpler U.S. Army garrison cap.
The interior retains the original cloth issue label, now faint with age but still partially legible, showing the pattern designation “Cap, Garrison – Khaki” together with the size marking 6⅞. Beneath this are additional specification and contract lines typical of wartime military clothing labels, although the manufacturer’s name is now largely indistinct due to fading. The cap is of enlisted pattern and retains the plain exterior without fitted insignia. During service Marines typically wore the small black enamel Eagle, Globe and Anchor cap badge on the left side of the cap, while officers additionally wore rank insignia on the opposite side.
Khaki cotton garrison caps such as this were worn by U.S. Marine Corps personnel with the summer service uniform and tropical clothing during the Second World War, particularly in warm climates and operational theatres such as the Pacific. Their soft foldable design allowed them to be easily carried when not worn and they became a familiar item of Marine Corps field dress throughout the war.
History Note:
The Marine Corps adopted the garrison cap as practical soft headwear during the interwar period, and by the Second World War it had become standard summer service dress for enlisted Marines. Known colloquially as the “pisscutter,” the cap was worn widely during the Pacific campaigns and in training bases across the United States. The Marine Corps pattern differs subtly from the Army version, incorporating a narrow expansion strip along the crown to allow a closer and more comfortable fit.
*Condition*
Good original condition overall. The khaki cotton fabric remains structurally sound with light wear and minor creasing consistent with age and storage. The interior label is present though faded. No insignia fitted. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#2947A0_1115234394
