BACKGROUND: In late 1940, with the impending German entrance into the North African campaign, tropical uniforms and equipment were quickly developed and issued in time for DAK, Deutsches Afrika Korps, (German Africa Corps), personnel’s arrival in Tripoli in February 1941. Eventually these tropical uniforms would be issued to personnel serving in southern areas of continental Europe. The design of the tropical breeches for unmounted personnel essentially adhered to the pattern of the field-grey continental breeches but were manufactured in a different material and color suitable for tropical climates. The first pattern tropical breeches without a built-in belt proved unsuitable and were soon replaced with the second pattern that included the built-in belt. Officers and certain senior NCO ranks were responsible for purchasing their own uniforms and as a result were allotted a clothing allowance through the army’s Kleiderkasse, (Clothing Account), system. The Officers and certain senior NCO’s could choose to purchase their uniforms from the armed forces clothing depots or to privately purchase garments of higher quality. Although enlisted personnel were issued their uniforms from government supplies they were also permitted to purchase privately tailored uniforms although the price may have been restrictive.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Second pattern, olive/khaki green, canvas/cotton construction breeches. Nice maker and size markings with a 1942 Hamburg depot stamp. All original buttons and stitching. The breeches are roughly size 30" waist. Ankle tie strings are missing, but otherwise mint. Super nice!