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: Nice quality, private purchase, field-grey wool/rayon blend construction tunic. The tunic features a vertical, five button front closure with dual metal hooks and eyes at the neck. The tunic has four, pleated, front pockets with scalloped button down flaps. Awards loops for one badge on the left pocket. Collar tabs, shoulder boards and breast eagle all look to be original period application. The interior of the tunic is fully lined in grey/green rayon with off-white striped sleeves. Buttons look to be all original application. The tunic is roughly a size 34" chest. Comes with a nice piece ribbon bar. Nice clean untouched tunic.