Original 1944 Dated Royal Army Service Corps Majors Battledress Blouse

An original 1944 Dated Canadian made battledress blouse in a larger size. This jacket belonged to Major B D Ashton who was a member of the Royal Army Service Corps in the inter-war period and served throughout the Second World War. He was awarded the North Africa Star, Italy Star and France and Germany Star so he certainly saw some action.

This pattern of jacket was introduced at the beginning of the Second World War and saw widespread issue with Canadian troops throughout the conflict. Many British soldiers, particularly officers, also wore Canadian made battledress if they could get their hands on it as it was perceived to be of a higher quality to British made examples. In cut it closely follows the British 'Battledress, Serge' issued at the beginning of the war. It is however made from a darker, greener shade of serge wool and features Canadian pattern buttons.

This jacket is typical of those worn by officers in 1944 and 1945 in that it has had the collar retailored to an 'open face' style which was very popular during this period. The right sleeve features original Royal Army Service Corps shoulder title and a 21st Army Group formation badge. A yellow back majors crown is fitted to the epaulette. There is evidence of where the same badges were fitted to the left sleeve and medal ribbons to the chest. These were most likely removed to create a badge display. 

Inside the jacket the original manufacturer's stamp is still present although some sections are less legible than others. The 1944 date is present as is the Canadian War Department stamp which features a 'crows foot' surrounded by a 'C'. 

When laid flat the jacket measures - 

Chest - 23 1/2"
Waist - 18 1/2"
Inside arm - 18"
Outside arm - 24 1/2"
Shoulders - 19"
Length at rear - 20 1/2"

The jacket is in reasonable condition for its age with some signs of wear and use. Overall it displays well with no serious flaws or damage but please study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that this is a vintage, pre-worn item which has flaws commensurate with age. 

A nice original attributed battledress blouse. The matching trousers have been listed separately.