Uniform and Kit

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The original bullet proof vest?

During the First World War (1914-18) Private Stephen Palmer was sent an Oxo tin that ended up saving his life.

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Luck and superstition

Chance plays a significant part in deciding a soldier’s fate on the battlefield. Here we look at examples of close shaves and extraordinary escapes, and examine some of the superstitions soldiers draw on for comfort and protection.

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Pelisse, Zieten Hussars, worn by The Duke of Connaught, 1900s

A uniform fit for a prince

Flamboyant hussar uniforms belonging to Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, demonstrate the close dynastic links between European monarchies and the tradition of foreign royals serving as honorary heads of military units.

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Queen Elizabeth II views her old uniform at NAM, 2017

Inspired by a princess's uniform

British heritage brand Hawes & Curtis has partnered with the National Army Museum to create a limited edition collection that is fit for royalty. The collection is inspired by the uniform Queen Elizabeth II wore as a young princess.

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Coatee worn at Waterloo by Brigade-Major Thomas Noel Harris, 1815

Waterloo coatee's provenance confirmed

In 2015, the National Army Museum was presented with a rare coatee worn by Major Thomas Harris at the Battle of Waterloo. A combination of historical evidence and modern forensic analysis was used to confirm its authenticity.

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The art of staying alive: McNab's survival kit

An SAS soldier's personal survival kit contains many everyday objects. These can be used in ingenious ways, demonstrating both the adaptability and the resourcefulness of the Special Forces.

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Lieutenant Colonel Campbell Clark, 104th Regiment of Foot (Bengal Fusiliers), c1877

A lucky escape

A rare tunic from the Indian Mutiny holds a death-defying tale of gruesome gunshots, troublesome timepieces and a remarkable recovery.

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The original bulletproof vest?

During the First World War Private Stephen Palmer was sent an Oxo tin that ended up saving his life.

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Army fashion statements

The Army's influence on fashion is not new. Military dress has made its way from conflict to catwalk over and over again.

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Explore Uniform and Kit events

A parade of soldiers in helmets, gas mask cases on their chests and holstered revolvers at their sides

Primary (virtual)

7 September - 1 December 2020

FREE

Head On (virtual)

Discover helmets from across the history of the Army, and explore the materials and properties that make a great helmet.

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Soldier with her military working dog in Jordan

Primary (virtual)

7 September - 1 December 2020

FREE

Whatever the weather (virtual)

Soldiers have to be ready for anything! Explore how they have managed in different weather conditions and terrain around the world and then design and build a shelter that will keep a soldier dry.

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