Notes
This is likely a U.S. Army garrison cap, or "overseas cap." It was constructed from soft, pliable wool, and became useful in the field as washcloths, pot holders, or padding for steel helmets. The cap also served as a badge of honor, as it indicated that its owner had been deployed to fight overseas. Members of the American Expeditionary Force were issued this cap upon arriving in the European Theatre of World War I, as they were found to be more compatible with steel helmets than the standard issue campaign hat. These were copied from a French design, and could be easily removed and tucked away, or simply worn underneath the helmet. The crossed rifles pin indicates that the wearer of this cap served in the infantry.