Heer Tropical Tunics

Hearing Bone Twill Tunic

The drill uniform was first introduced on April 1, 1933. It was made of linen, which is made from the flax plant, with what is known as a herring bone weave, hence H.B.T. It was originally worn for barracks square drill duties, indoor duties, at the firing ranges and for basic combat training.

It came with and without bottom on-flapped patchpockets. The buttons could be removed by use of 'S' rings. No shoulder straps or eagle emblem were worn with the tunic. It was issued in a white or natural color.

As a result of favorable responses from the troops, on February 12, 1940, a more practical reed green uniform was issued and the tunic was soon being mass produced for the front troops. It was identical in cut and style as the wool field blouse and was worn with rank insignia, national emblem and for the N.C.O., tresse.

It had two flapped top and bottom pockets. The buttons were detachable but later pieces may have the buttons sewn on directly to the tunic. It was lined with a silklike material, possibly rayon, and had various reinforcement on the inside of the tunic.

The 1st model had four pleated pockets with pointed flaps. It was well made and differed from the tropical tunic in that it could be buttoned all the why to the top and had a hook and eye on the collar. It also had buttons on the inside of the collar for wearing a neck liner.

The second and third model tunics, though identical in design, went through the same pocket conversions as its tropical counterparts.

Front view of a herring bone twill first model tunic. The example is in prime condition with original eagle, collar tabs and N.C.O. tresse. It has pleated upper and lower pockets and a six button front. The breast eagle was applied above the pocket flaps, this being a distinction when compared to actual AK tunics.

J.R. Figueroa, "Tropical Uniforms of the German Army and Airforce in W.W.II", Author published, 1993