CROATIAN FORCES

Research is crucial when creating the correct look for displays. Original wartime images can be easily found on the internet and are an invaluable source of information regarding uniforms, weapons and equipment, these websites also provide a wealth of accurate historical information on the conflict and the Croatian Forces of the time.

Uniform

The preferred uniform is the local manufacture 'Brown and Tan' dominant 'Forest' pattern that was produced from

mid-1991 in varying shades. Labelling is usually a simple White cotton label with the European sizing details printed

in Red or Black numerals, occasionally a second label can be found with the word 'Pamuk' (Cotton) printed on it.

A large amount of military surplus clothing was also purchased by the Croatian Forces from outlets all over Europe,

other common patterns were US BDU (80's faded) and East German Rain camouflage.

Footwear

The Former Yugoslavian JNA (Yugoslavian National Army) boots can be identified by the double buckles on the top

side of each boot (be aware though of similar design boots from other European countries). Any style of European

issue Black military boot is acceptable, as are the ankle height walking style boots which were bought in large

amounts from outlets all over Europe, this style of boot is still readily available in the shops. Another popular choice

of footwear were the 1980's production trainers that were produced within the Former Yugoslavia prior to the conflict,

if choosing to wear this option members should ensure that their choice of trainer includes the

'Made in Yugoslavia' label to maintain authenticity.

Insignia

This should be of original issue only. The accepted badge (s) for display are the HV and or the 109.Brigade

patches, the wearing of insignia was not strictly enforced. If you choose to wear insignia then it should be noted

that badges were more than often simply sewn, glued or pinned in place. Cap and beret badges can be in cloth,

plastic or metal.

Headwear

Berets (Black, Tan, Red, Green) of Yugoslav, French, Italian or German make, Field Caps (local pattern

camouflage with fold down neck flap), US style Boonie Hat (Woodland, Tiger Stripe, 1991 US Desert camo). Also

commonly worn were Head Bands and Bandannas of either commercial or home made manufacture, headwear

insignia should be of original issue only, helmet insignia can be hand painted, drawn or stickers, helmets ranged

from Former Yugoslavian issue to US M1, East German and many other European styles.

Field Kit

Most items of field kit were leftovers from the Former Yugoslavian National Army (JNA), much of which was

captured during the so called 'Barracks War' in 1991. This kit included such items as the Leather Belt & Braces

sets, Mess Kits, Gas Masks and Shelter Tent/Poncho halves (Yellow Leaf camouflage).

Personal Appearance

Full beards are not acceptable for display (up to 1 weeks growth or a Goatee beard are allowed), a Moustache was common amongst Croatian males. Hair can be short or long and should be natural in colour. Lower arm, hand, neck and facial tattoos are not acceptable (lower arm tattoos must remain covered by shirt sleeves when on display). Earrings should be of a small stud or hoop design (female members only). Facial piercing of any kind is not acceptable (including the tongue), Naval piercing must remain covered when on display. Traditional wedding rings can be worn by male members, female members can wear up to 2 small rings of their choice.

Foreign Volunteers

The portrayal of Foreign Volunteers is RESTRICTED to former volunteers only (proof

of service will always be required), this is to prevent the group from being inundated

with individuals wishing only to portray the so called 'Mercenary' figures.

Foreign volunteers are exempt from the guideline concerning lower arm tattoos only,

all the other personal appearance guidelines are to be followed.

Personal Items

Once you have the look right it is time to give consideration to the more personal side of your display character,

think about what personal items he or she may have worn or carried with them. A good source of original vintage

items is the internet auction site above, when searching for personal items remember that the period we portray

is 1991 - 1992, a search for items from around the 1980's will ensure they are relevant to what may have been

available to the men and women on the frontline at the time.

DON'T OVER DO IT, SOMETIMES LESS IS MORE!