The above wallet contains the following item's and gives a good idea as to the types of things carried at the time. Obviously; once going into action, all personal effects would have been handed in leaving just service documents.
- National Westminster Bank Cheques
- Electric and Gas Contractors Bill
- Department Store Clothing Receipt
- Permit to Drive Military Vehicles
- Military Stores Clothing Account Receipt
- Military Authority Occupation Money
- Active Service Envelope for those letters home
- Berthing and Messing Card for A Troop Transport
- War Economy Bingo Cards to while away the journey
In addition to the above you may wish pocket fillers :
- Packet of 10 Players Navy Cut Cigarettes or a pipe and tobacco
- Loose Change such as farthings, thrupenny bits, Ha'pennies and pennies
- Service issue handkerchief
All of these items can be obtained from various sources and there are also reproductions available from our recommended supplier so we will always be able to provide you with advice and recommendations.
House Wife (Sewing Kit) :
General Issue to British Troops it contained :
- Spare Buttons and Buckles
- Occasionally came issued with a Ministry Broad Arrow stamped Brass Tape Meassure
These are fairly easy to come by and can assure you that it will be used on more than one occasion whilst you are 'in the field'.
Time Pieces and Lighters :
The use of modern time pieces and lighters is not permitted. Subsequently; we would recommend obtaining either a 1930's or 1940's civilian wrist or pocket watch. Military issue watches will have a GSTP (General Service Time Piece) mark stamped on the rear with a Ministry Broad Arrow (also known as a crow's foot). Both styles of watches are readily available and vary in cost.
Again; for authenticity, modern lighters and match boxes are not permitted. Period lighters of varying makes, match boxes or match box covers are all readily available at minimal cost.
