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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Jacket worn by Captain John Malcolmson VC, c1860

Wool, wax and whalebone: Preparing a uniform for display

Our conservation team describes some of the essential work required to get one of the highlights of the Global Role gallery ready for display.

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Bearskin badge, 2nd Dragoons (Royal Scots Greys), c1900s

Regimental badges

Soldiers’ headwear has always featured some form of insignia demonstrating regimental identity. Here we take a look at some common features of these badge designs, investigating the origins and meaning behind their words and symbols.

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Soldiers of The 3rd (East Kent) Regiment of Foot (The Buffs) defending the Colours at Albuera, 1811

Save the Colours!

Colours have been the focus of some of the most bitter fighting and magnificent acts of heroism in British Army history. Soldiers often fought to the last to preserve them in battle, and they continue to hold totemic significance for regiments today.

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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

These splendid items of uniform belonging to Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, showcase the flamboyant fashion adopted by hussar units across Europe.

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Queen Elizabeth II views her old uniform at NAM, 2017

Inspired by a princess’s uniform

In 2018, British heritage brand Hawes & Curtis partnered with the National Army Museum to create a limited edition collection. It was inspired by a military 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. Here, we take a closer look at his story, along with some other unconventional life-saving possessions.

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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

Children taking part in a Play Base workshop at the National Army Museum

Nursery workshop

5 September - 19 December 2023

£140.00

Heads up

Join us in Play Base as we discover the amazing world of Army headwear.

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

Primary (virtual)

12 September 2023 - 19 July 2024

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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School children trying on different Army helmets

Primary workshop

12 September 2023 - 19 July 2024

FREE

Head on

Get hands-on with real helmets from our handling collection, then use different materials to make and test your own.

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School children taking part in a weather workshop

Primary workshop

12 September 2023 - 19 July 2024

FREE

Whatever the weather

Soldiers have to be ready for anything! Explore and test materials by designing and building a shelter that will keep a soldier dry.

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Full dress jacket and vest worn at Waterloo, 1815

Tour At Museum

8 December 2023, 2.00pm

£5.00

Curator Tour: Uniform of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars

Join curator Mel Price as she highlights a selection of uniforms spanning the wars against Revolutionary and Napoleonic France.

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Toddler playing at a Tiny Troopers session

Workshop At Museum

28 February 2024

£5.00

Tiny Troopers: Unique Uniform

Sing, play and create with your little ones at these fun, sensory sessions, perfect for ages 2 to 5.

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Goldwork embroidered on a military uniform

Course At Museum

2 - 3 March 2024

£100.00

Embroidery Course: Goldwork

Elevate your embroidery skills on this two-day course led by experts from Hand & Lock, London’s premier embroidery house.

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Tour At Museum

22 March 2024, 2.00pm

£5.00

Curator Tour: Uniform of the Crimean War

Join curator Mel Price as she highlights a range of uniforms worn by British soldiers during the Crimean War.

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Course At Museum

11 - 12 May 2024

£100.00

Embroidery Course: Goldwork and Silk Shading

Elevate your embroidery skills on this two-day course, inspired by the Museum’s collection and led by experts from Hand & Lock, London’s premier embroidery house.

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