/Pattern 1944 Basic Pouch (right) : Lieutenant R J Fletcher, 2 RAR

First issue Pattern 1944 Basic Pouch (later issues had a second pair of double hooks on the back, so that the pouch could be worn lower on the belt if required) in jungle green cotton. The pouch has a brass drain eyelet in the bottom and a hooded flap with a quick release toggle fastener at the top which has a two position closure. The back of the pouch has a pair of double hooks for attachment to the Pattern 1944 webbing belt, and a pair of vertical fabric loops by which it may be suspended from other belts. At the top is a tapered cloth tab with an alloy buckle for attachment to the webbing shoulder braces. The inside of the flap is marked in black ink 'FLETCHER 235080', and has an indistinguishable makers marking and the date '1953'.

Associated with the service of 235080 Robert John Fletcher. Bob Fletcher was born in Cowra in 1932, and entered the Royal Military College, Duntroon in February 1951. He graduated in December 1954, and served with 2 RAR in Malaya between 1955 and 1957 commanding rifle and mortar platoons.
The left hand Pattern 1944 Basic Pouch was identical to the right, but had a pair of webbing loops on its left hand side to take the No 4, 5 or 7 bayonet.