There are some thousands of Australian Army colour patches, each signifying the different units that were in existence and formed between the introduction of colour patches in 1915 and the abandonment of the early system in 1949 (replaced by embroidered regimental and corps titles and formation signs); and the reintroduction of a colour patch system in 1987.
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Blood,
Sweat & Mothholes This 5 Pioneer Bn colour patch and badge from WWI tells a story far beyond mere colours and shapes. A part of the memorabilia of Nick Bosio, whose grandfather served with the 5th Pnr Bn. |
Worn on the sleeve
and puggaree (hat band) or helmet cover, colour patches have always
been a useful means of unit identification. In the first and second
AIF these patches became a form of unit badge, with all of the unit
identity and esprit de corps normally associated with regimental
hat badges.With the reintroduction of colour patches in the late 1980s
units were encouraged to adopt the patches of earlier AIF units for
whom a direct lineage could be established.
The online
collection presented here is intended to provide general assistance
in recognising colour patches and, where possible, providing the authority
for each of them. It does not, at this point, purport to include the
full history of every patch.
References
In compiling this collection, reference has been made to AHU resources
and also to two comprehensive works on this vast and complex subject:
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Distinguishing Colour Patches of the Australian Military Forces 1915 - 1951 - A Reference Guide, by Keith Glyde (published by K Glyde, Australia, 1999, ISBN 0-6460-36640-8).
This recognised work is duly acknowledged and recommended to those wishing to research the original colour patches further; & -
Army Colour Patch Register 1915-1949, published by Director of Publishing, Department of Defence.
- Australian Armour - A History of the Royal Australian Armoured Corps 1927-1972, by Major-General R N L Hopkins, CBE (first published by The Australian War Memorial & the Australian Government Publishing Service, Australia, 1978)
Whilst not exact copies of the real patches, every effort has made to reproduce the patches in colours close to their original and, while not to scale, close to proportional.
HQ 1 Aust Div
As a guide, a standard rectangular patch such as this would measure 2.5 X 1. 5 inches. Further details as to size and colour are available for those interested: contact AHU.
Authorities & Amendments
The Order authorising the colour patch is given where possible (click on the unit title for a pop up note). Note that superseded patches are not normally given.
A Work In Progress
This is one more challenging project in development for the AHU web site and as always, your input is welcome. Indeed, it is vital: one strength of the site and the internet is that it is possible for the collective knowledge of the AHU and all viewers to go towards making the site as accurate as possible; and, unlike a hard copy publication, amendments can be made.
Contact AHU.