Original 1970s Royal Marine Commando Warrant Officer Tour Smock

An original British Army Windproof Cadet Smock in a larger size 4 which belonged to a Royal Marine Commando warrant officer and appears to have been used around 1974 as part of a European tour of various places. Whether the original owner was still serving and got the smock to wear and add badges to, or was an ex RM Commando now working with cadets, is unclear. Nonetheless, he was clearly a parachute trained RM Commando who took part in a European trip in the mid 1970s. 

Officially designated 'Smock Windproof Green Cadet Forces (AD), these smocks were based on the Blacks standard anorak and saw extensive use throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Made from a green coloured, tight weave cotton; this smock features a large pocket to the centre of the chest which seals with velcro and two lower patch pockets which fasten with buttons. The waist drawstring and hood drawstring are both the original white coloured factory fitted examples which retain their plastic stoppers. The hood features a short zip with a chrome plated puller which is marked 'Lightning'. 

The front of the smock is fitted with a number period badges, many of which relate to places visited by the original owner. There is a Royal Marine Commando shoulder title fitted to the chest which was clearly fitted to the left sleeve previously. A Civil Defence 'Somerset' shoulder title has also been added which would suggest that is where he hailed from. He may have found this from a relative's Civil Defence uniform. There is also evidence of where a parachute qualification badge was fitted to the right sleeve. This was fitted with red thread and would suggest that it was the Royal Marine pattern in black on a red field. A warrant officer rank badge is fitted to the lower portion of the right sleeve. 

Inside the smock the original label is still present and is bright and legible. It bears the title of ' Smock, Windproof, Green, Cadet Forces (AD)' below which is the size of 4. The maker's name of 'J. Compton Son & Webb Ltd is also present, as is the A/78 contract number which dates the smock to the early 1970s. 

The anorak will fit a 38" - 40"  chest depending on desired fit. When laid flat it measures -

Chest - 25 1/2"
Inside arm - 22"
Outside arm - 26 1/2"
Length - 33 1/2"
Shoulders - 23 1/2"

The overall condition of the smock is good with some limited signs of wear and use. It is still very wearable with no major flaws or issues. Please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-worn item which may have small flaws commensurate with age. 

A nice smock unlike any other you will find!   

This is a vintage item which is 'sold as seen'