Navy cap/barette blue

This T61-5 body armor, officially designated MIL-A-43197, represents a fascinating chapter in military equipment history. Developed in the mid-1960s, the T61-5 was designed to be a more ergonomic and flexible successor to the older M1952A model. Its innovative construction featured over 100 individual titanium plates, intended to provide superior protection and comfort.

Although it officially became the U.S. Army's standard-issue vest "on paper" in 1965, it never saw widespread adoption in reality. With the escalation of the Vietnam War, the T61-5 proved too expensive and complex to manufacture for mass deployment. The Army instead opted for a simpler, cheaper, updated version of the M1952A (the "3/4 collar" model).

Despite being an Army design, the T61-5 found its primary use elsewhere. It became characteristic equipment for the U.S. Navy's "Brown Water Navy" units operating in the rivers and coastal areas of Vietnam from 1966 onwards. It was also used by some U.S. Army mechanized infantry, armor, and armored cavalry units between 1969-1971.

Key Features:

• Official Designation: MIL-A-43197

• Common Name: T61-5 Composite Armor

• Standard Publication Date: Feb. 10, 1964

• Construction: Composite material with over 100 titanium plates

• Historical Status: Superseded, cancelled in 1972 with no direct replacement

• Primary Users: US Navy ("Brown Water Navy"), US Army mechanized units in Vietnam

This vest is an exceptional and rare collector's item, documenting the push for innovation in personal protection during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

A highly rare piece of headgear from the First Indochina War: The French Cotton "Gurkha" Beret (also known as Béret de brousse). Distinct from standard issue wool berets, this multi-panel cotton construction was designed specifically for the rigors of jungle warfare in Southeast Asia. This example is in lightly used condition with no damage, retaining its original shape. Size is approximately 52 (Small).

Genuine US Marine Corps "White Gear" set for Military Police. Vietnam War era. Includes cotton web belt with brass plate buckle, .45 mag pouch, and holster hanger. Used condition with authentic patina.

A pristine, unissued US Government Issue (GI) Green Beret from the height of the Vietnam War. Markings inside confirm the contract DSA100-68-C-0965, dating it specifically to 1968. Sourced directly from the estate of Special Forces trooper Norton, making this a piece with solid provenance. Unlike many surviving examples, the wool is free of moth damage and the interior silver stamping is crisp and bright. Features correct black eyelets with screens. Size 7 1/8.

Genuine Vietnam War era Utility Cap. Cotton Sateen OG-107 fabric. Dated 1971. Manufacturer: Propper International. Size Large. Unissued / Mint condition.

M1 helmet cover in Tigerstripe camouflage.

Parka M51 (Field Jacket) in unused condition. Contract QM (CTM) 10442 - C - 61 from 1961. Size Small Short.

A superb example of the scarce Rubberized M3 Medical Bag (Instrument and Supply Set No. 3). Manufactured by Eastern Canvas Products Inc., this waterproof variation was standard issue during the Korean War and early Vietnam era. Unlike many surviving examples, the rubberized fabric on this bag is supple and free of dry rot, and all zippers are fully functional. The kit comes loaded with vintage medical supplies, including boxed muslin bandages, Johnson & Johnson gauze, and a highly collectible glass bottle of Norwich Aspirin. Disclaimer: All contents are expired and sold for display/collectible purposes only.