This Tiger Stripe Boonie Hat, procured and supplied by the CISO (Counter Insurgency Support Office), is one of the essential pieces of specialized equipment when discussing the Vietnam War.

The CISO is known as the organization that supplied equipment to the South Vietnamese Army, the CIDG, special forces, and reconnaissance units, much of which was produced in Japan, Okinawa, and South Korea. This particular item, believed to have been sewn in Okinawa, retains many of the distinctive features of the era and is a highly attractive piece representative of the mid-Vietnam War period.

The camouflage pattern is the popular “Okinawa pattern,” also known among collectors as the JWD pattern. The contrast between the black stripes and the vivid green is striking, allowing you to appreciate the refined color palette unique to Okinawa-made tiger-stripe patterns.

On the inside, a tag unique to Japanese-made products—featuring the size in red lettering on a white background—remains firmly in place, a detail commonly found on mid-period CISO products.The shape—including the crown height and the gently wavy brim—features the classic silhouette of a Vietnam War-era CISO boonie hat, making it a piece that allows you to fully appreciate its authentic atmosphere not only as a collector’s item but also when worn.

Although it is a small size (S), even among the few surviving CISO boonie hats, specimens that meet all three criteria—the Okinawa pattern, a Japanese-made tag, and Okinawan stitching—are becoming increasingly rare to find each year. This is a piece of high historical value that is indispensable when discussing Vietnam War-era equipment and the “Tiger Stripe” pattern.

Country of Manufacture: Estimated to be made in Okinawa (Japan)
Era: Mid-1960s
Camouflage: Okinawa Pattern (JWD) Tiger Stripe Size
: S

Condition

In very good condition, consistent with an unused, stored item. There is slight rust visible around the air vent hardware, and a sewing error from the original manufacturing process on a portion of the brim; however, neither affects actual use and both serve as interesting details that offer a glimpse into the production context of the era.

Please note that returns are not accepted for used items.

Size (Flat Measurement)

Approx. 56–57