Trooper, Armoured Car crewman, Irish Cavalry, 1938.jpg

All armies understood and maintained a mobile arm, either horsed, mechanised or armoured. The army of the Free State was no different.

Headdress – Darker green khaki caubeen pulled down on the right side. It has black tape stitched around the base, the ends of which fall down the back of the head. The Army badge, shown below, is attached to the upright left side of the crown, towards the front.

Jacket – Made of a darker green khaki serge, it has a stand collar that bears the Cavalry’s badges at the ends. On the chest are two pleated pockets with three-point flaps, and on the hips are larger versions without the pleat on the pocket. Five brass buttons close the front of the jacket.

Equipment – Over the jacket is carried a set of webbing equipment consisting of waist belt and two supporting straps that cross over on the back. The webbing has been coloured black. The basis of the set is a waist belt with two supporting straps that cross over on the back. Attached to the front left of the belt is a leather holster carrying his side arm. On the right is a small leather pouch holding rounds for the revolver. The leather is coloured black, like the webbing.

Over the webbing equipment is positioned a British pattern gas respirator in its bag. It is carried in the ‘alert’ position for immediate use.

Legwear – Serge breeches are worn tucked into leather gaiters, worn over ankle boots. The gaiters and boots are polished to a reddish finish.

Weapon – Webley 0.45in revolver of British manufacture.

Part of the cavalry was mechanised, crewing armoured cars. The cars were British Rolls Royce pattern carrying a single Vickers machine gun in a movable turret.