WW2 ARP / Civil Defence Gabardine Coat
Civil Defence ARP Pattern Number 81 Gabardine Coat
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The women's ARP Pattern 81 Gabardine Coat was issued to members of outdoor first aid posts and mobile units. It was a belted medium-weight coat (12 oz.) issued with yellow braid (ARP Pattern 87) to the collar and a special gabardine breast badge (see below). The colour was designated as "blue-grey" and 14 different sizes were available.
The coat could be worn with a detachable sleeveless camel fleece wool lining (16.5 oz.) that had the ARP Pattern Number 82. As shown in the photo, members also attached first aid badges (often those issued by the St John Ambulance Association) to the right side of the coat. The gabardine coat is often paired with the ARP Pattern 44 Felt Hat. |
Members of a Mobile Unit wearing the gabardine coat
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Gabardine coat and fleece lining, 1941
ARP Pattern Number 81 Gabardine Coat (missing belt)
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ARP Pattern Number 81 Gabardine Coat rear
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Gabardine Civil Defence CD Breast Badge ARP Pattern 89
To match the gabardine material of the coat, a CD badge was manufactured using a similar gabardine backing and merrow edging in black thread. The badge was sewn to the coat at the factory. The badge featured the same old gold CD letters and King's crown as seen on the breast badges found on battledress and tunics. This badge was only used on this coat.
The archives at the Post Office have this badge listed as "Breast Badge C.D. & Crown - ARP 89 - Gold Printed on Blue Grey". A sealed pattern is known for this printed badge but all badges seen on the coats appear to be embroidered.
The archives at the Post Office have this badge listed as "Breast Badge C.D. & Crown - ARP 89 - Gold Printed on Blue Grey". A sealed pattern is known for this printed badge but all badges seen on the coats appear to be embroidered.
Gabardine Civil Defence CD Breast Badge
Sealed Pattern for Breast Badge for Gabardine Coat
Sealed Pattern for Breast Badge for Gabardine Coat
