Traditional crocheted hat : Private S T Donald, 1 RAR, UNITAF

Places
Accession Number REL31630
Collection type Heraldry
Object type Headdress
Physical description Wool
Location Main Bld: Peacekeeping & Recent Conflicts Gallery: Vietnam Gallery area: Intro
Maker Unknown
Place made Somalia
Date made c 1993
Conflict Somalia, 1992-1995
Description

Woollen crocheted soft brim hat in red, blue, green and yellow. The central red band has 'SOOMAALIYA' crocheted around it in green. The brim is blue with a yellow interwoven pattern and edge. This pattern is repeated in the same colours above the central band. The crown consists of a central blue circle bordered in red with overlaying green and yellow squares.

History / Summary

Associated with the service of Private Steven T Donald who served with 1 RAR as part of the Unified Task Force in Somalia (UNITAF) in 1993. Donald departed for Somalia by sea on 24 December and arrived in early January 1993. The Battalion were trained on board with special attention given to first aid, weapons and practising company formations to control riots. Donald was promoted to the rank of No. 1 Rifleman on 11 January 1993. 1 RAR operated the Baidoa Humanitarian Relief Sector in south-western Somalia. Daily work included patrolling, providing escorts and food drops to the local population. The battalion was also called upon for aid during riots and other civil disturbances. Donald left Somalia on 9 May 1993.