Original Item. Only One Available. This is a tremendously rare Vietnam War black Stetson campaign “Cav Hat” named to Captain W.A. Gilleto of the Cavalry. The “Cav Hat” is a standard black Cavalry hat, Stetson or other appropriate brand, with a 3 inch brim and a black leather chin strap. This example has a black and gold hat cord indicating field and company grade officers. The hat, which is sized 6⅞, comes in its original Stetson box and receipt which names the hat to Captain W. A. Gilleto.

The campaign hat is in black as was standard for the Vietnam War. There is a small gilt Cavalry insignia affixed to the front of the helmet with a gorgeous black and gold hat cord. The helmet is missing its chinstrap. The black leather sweatband is still fully retained with its ribbon and size marking for 6⅞. The box for the hat is in rough shape and has some water damage but still complements the hat very well. Also with the hat are a pair of cavalry spurs with black leather straps also belonging to Gilleto.

The box measures 13½ x 14½ x 6”.

These hats became iconic for being worn by Cavalry officers in the field, famously worn in the film Apocalypse Now by Colonel Bill Kilgore, portrayed by Robert Duvall.

This is a stellar piece of Vietnam War history that absolutely requires further research, so don’t miss it! Comes ready for further research and display.