1 SAS Sqn Vietnam Cooler

THE STUBBY HOLDER STORY

The Background - Tiger Stripe Camo

When SASR first deployed to South Vietnam the uniform worn by the soldiers was the standard Jungle Greens of the Australian Army. The first camouflage uniforms available to SAS soldiers were the Tiger Stripe uniforms worn by members of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) Rangers. However, SAS soldiers had their camo fatigues custom-made by local tailors, with ARVN uniforms being too small for most Australians.

The Logo - 1 SAS Squadron 1969

The Officer Commanding 1 SAS Squadron in 1969 was nicknamed "Trader", due to his previous infamous activities. He decided that the squadron needed a logo for its upcoming deployment to South Vietnam in February 1970 and organised a competition to select a suitable design.

Members of the squadron were to vote for their preferred design and the entry with most votes would be selected. However, Trader advised that he would be the final arbiter and had power of veto.

There was a winner's prize of a carton of beer paid for from squadron funds.

Only a handful of designs were submitted, including one from Trader. The squadron members voted unanimously for an entry from a Sergeant who was extremely talented and had training as a graphic artist.

Trader's entry won and he collected the prize.

Trader produced the logo in the form of a sticker, and he was the sole supplier. Sales were slow (nil), so he opted for command authority and all squadron members were ordered to purchase at least one, and display in a prominent place.

Most stickers purchased were found adhered to the underside of the top cover of toilet seats.

Source: SASHF