Original German WWII French-Made Waffen SS Maroon Parade Fez for Foreign Volunteers – dated 1940 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a maroon fez that was part of the dress uniform of a Waffen-SS military detachment composed of Muslims from Bosnia, Croatia, and Herzegovina in occupied Yugoslavia. These groups were intended to combat the resistance groups in occupied territories. The group was commanded by German or ethnic German officers, and the uniforms were designed to reflect the religion and ethnicity of the recruits. Later, the Fez was also issued to local volunteers from other areas in the Balkans.

There were two versions of the fez: a field gray model to be worn in combat and while on duty and a maroon model for parades, marching exercises and while off duty. 

This example is offered in overall very good condition, with light overall wear, and just a bit of moth damage. The top tassel is unfortunately completely missing, with just the felt maroon base present, though the securing stitches can still be seen on the edge. The eagle badge on the front of the helmet also has some damage.

Unlike the few we have had before, this example is actually marked and dated on the sweatband:

L. S. G.
GIROMAGNY
1940

Giromagny is a commune in the far Eastern side of France, not far from the German Border. After the fall of France in 1940, it was part of the German occupied zone in Northern France, not part of Vichy France. After capture, Germany wasted no time pressing industries in the area into service. Size is marked as 57 cm, and it features field red/maroon wool construction with a black leather sweatband.

This example is 100% authentic: there are and have been numerous fakes on the market, this is not one of those. Ready research to display!