Non-Commissioned Officer, Irish Brigade, German Army, 1917.jpg

In an attempt to harness Irish nationalism, Irishmen seeking a free Ireland and sympathetic to serving with the Germans were sought in prisoner of war camps. A number of men came forward and they were organised into an Irish Brigade. An example of the proposed uniform was on display at the National Museum in Dublin (I believe). Headdress – German style peaked cap of grey green material. It has a dark green band and crown piping. The peak and chin strap were black leather. Tunic – Grey green cloth with dark green facings cloth as a tab on the collar ends, on the shoulder straps and on the pointed cuffs. The latter extended up to form a shamrock in facing cloth, with a brass button near the point. The external chest pockets had three pointed flaps, as did the internal hip pockets. The latter, however, were placed at a slant like those of the M15 Bluse. Brass buttons closed the front. Rank was indicated using German style gilt lace chevrons, but in the British fashion, and by the addition of a line of gilt piping at the base of the collar. Legwear – Grey green breeches with a thin green welt down the side seams, tucked into brown leather marching boots. Equipment – German brown leather waist belt with rectangular clasp.

Officers’ uniforms were of a finer, and lighter shade of, cloth. I do not believe this uniform was worn in combat, nor were many produced. Similarly, I do not believe the Brigade was considered a success by the Germans.