The Field Service Cap (“wedge cap”) was officially introduced into the Canadian Army in 1939, when the new Battle Dress uniform was introduced. Wedge style caps had been worn by Canadians in the First World War, particularly by aviators (pilots), but its use was never widespread.
The original Royal Flying Corps cap badges were manufactured in brass, with the monogram ‘RFC’ surmounted by a King’s crown and surrounded by a laurel wreath, the tips of which joined by the crown.
The Royal Flying Corps (RFC) was the air arm of the British Army before and during the First World War. At the start of the First World War the RFC, commanded by Brigadier-General Sir David Henderson, consisted of five squadrons – one observation balloon squadron (RFC No 1 Squadron) and four aeroplane squadrons. As Canada was still a British dominion during the First World War, numerous Canadians joined the Royal Flying Corps.
During the early part of the war, the RFC supported the British Army with artillery co-operation and photographic reconnaissance.
By 1918, photographic images could be taken from 15,000 feet, and interpreted by over 3,000 personnel.