The TIGER BOONIE HAT / ADVISOR is a variation of the HAT, JUNGLE that was issued to the U.S. soldiers during the Vietnam conflict.

The origin of the boonie hat can be traced back to fisherman's "bucket hats," constructed of wool or tweed. By the late 1930s, the U.S. military had adopted a wide-brimmed design, inspired by bucket hats in the form of the Denim Army Hat, better known as the Daisy Mae and later in Olive Drab HBT as part of the P41 Uniform.

The design remained mostly unchanged until the U.S. military officially issued what became known as boonie hats in 1967, designating them as "hat, jungle, with insect net.". The Viet Cong had a very effective wide-brimmed hat of their own which likely encouraged R&D by the U.S.. It was at this time the construction of the hat was refined to include screened vent holes, drawstring, and foliage ring - a tape/band encircling the base of the hat, purposed for attaching foliage as a means of camouflage.

Special forces like the MACV-SOG and Long Range Reconnaissance Patrols adopted the hat, personalising it with slogans and insignia, as they famously did with Mitchell Camo helmet covers.

The VIET-NAM BOONIE HAT / SORRY ABOUT THAT is a souvenir garment, which references the phrase phrase “Sorry about that”, a notable slogan among American soldiers during the Vietnam War, reflecting a darkly humorous, sometimes ironic attitude toward the unintended consequences of military actions. It often served as a catchphrase or dry response when soldiers had to deal with or acknowledge the accidental damage or hardships that resulted from their operations—whether due to mistaken bombings, collateral damage, or the harsh conditions experienced by both soldiers and civilians.

The phrase captured the surreal and often grim nature of the war, where soldiers faced confusing, complex, and morally challenging situations. It underscored the dissonance many felt between their intentions and the harsh realities on the ground, highlighting a sense

Souvenir garments acted as mementos of service which would reflect soldiers experiences and achievements. They are often seen adorned with patches and insignia, and are a way of telling a soldier's personal story, including deployments and unit affiliations.of futility or detachment in dealing with the unpredictable and tragic outcomes of warfare.

Designed for hot and humid climates, the Boonie offers superior comfort and protection against rain and sun. The wide brim provides concealment, breaking up the wearer's silhouette. Modifications such as cutting the brim shorter or adding inside pockets for documents were common, reflecting the boonie's adaptability to various combat scenarios.

As the ‘Hat, Jungle’ was adopted by a broader range of servicemen, the nickname ‘Boonie’ took hold, likely derived from the Tagalog word for Mountain — "bundok,", as with the ‘Boondocker’ name for FIELD SHOES, N-1 that came into use around the same time.

100% Cotton

Cotton Twill Fabric

Cotton Sewing Thread Construction

Coarse Thread Embroidery

Made in Japan