BACKGROUND: The development of the M36 field blouse can be traced back to April 1933 with the introduction of the first pattern field blouses which were a departure from the cut and style of tunics utilized in World War I. From its introduction until 1936 the field blouse underwent a couple of small modifications designed to enhance its performance, appearance and longevity. Modifications to the 1933 pattern field blouse began in December 1934 when the original field-grey basic cloth collar was altered to a field-grey badge cloth for a better appearance. In September 1935 the collar was altered again from the field-grey badge cloth to dark blue/green badge cloth. The final pre-war modification to the field blouse occurred in December 1936 with the addition of a partial lining to the interior breast and upper back panels to increase its wear-out time. Officers and certain senior NCO ranks were responsible for purchasing their own uniforms and as a result were allotted a clothing allowance through the army’s Kleiderkasse, (Clothing Account), system. The Officers and certain senior NCO’s could choose to purchase their uniforms from the armed forces clothing depots or to privately purchase garments of higher quality. Although enlisted personnel were issued their uniforms from government supplies they were also permitted to purchase privately tailored uniforms although the price may have been restrictive. On the field blouse and service tunic the waffenfarbe was generally displayed on the shoulder straps/boards and the collar tabs.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Field-grey wool/rayon blend construction field blouse features a vertical, five button front closure with a single metal hook and eye positioned at the neckline. The field blouse has four, pleated patch, front pockets with scalloped button down flaps. Three sets of original award loops. This is an EM’s issue example that has been upgraded to an officer tunic. Upgrade was done by replacing the EM’s insignia with officer type. Very hard to say when the upgrade was done (It could be wartime, but could also be done later). Buttons look to be all original stitching and application. Very nice size and issue markings. The field blouse is roughly size 36 chest. Decent original, upgraded, M36 tunic.