*Belgian, Cold War, Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers Khaki Beret, with White Metal NCO Badge*
A good original Belgian Army khaki wool beret fitted with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers pattern badge, featuring crossed lightning bolts over a cogwheel beneath the Belgian royal crown. The badge is of silvered “white metal” construction, typically associated with senior NCO ranks (Sergeant / Warrant Officer level), rather than the more common brass examples worn by other ranks.
The beret itself is of classic Belgian military form in olive/khaki wool, with a black leather sweatband and dark lining. The overall appearance suggests a period service item rather than a later reproduction, with honest wear consistent with use.
Approx. Measurements – Likely a small size (no label present; estimated c. 54–56cm head size).
History Note:
The badge represents the Belgian Army’s technical and engineering branch, broadly equivalent in role to the British REME. The cogwheel symbolises mechanical engineering, while the crossed lightning bolts denote electrical specialisation—together reflecting the combined maintenance and repair responsibilities of the corps.
Although the standard beret colour for Belgian technical and logistics units became blue in later service, khaki berets such as this are known for general service, training, or transitional use—particularly in the Cold War period. It is not uncommon to encounter correct badges mounted on these earlier or non-corps-specific berets.
The crowned badge form indicates post-war service, most commonly seen from the 1950s through to the late 20th century.
*Condition*
Overall good, used condition. The wool body shows light wear, minor surface lint and a few small loose fibres. The leather sweatband is intact but shows age-related wear and slight stiffness. Interior lining present but worn, with labels removed or missing. Badge remains well-fixed with original style prongs. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ
