Rogatywka

Rogatywka with Polish coat of arms and pułkownik (colonel) rank insignia

Rogatywka (Polish pronunciation: [rɔɡaˈtɨfka]; sometimes translated as peaked cap) is the Polish generic name for an asymmetrical, peaked, four-pointed cap used by various Polish military formations throughout the ages. It is a distant relative of its 18th century predecessor, konfederatka (because of use by members of the Bar Confederation), although similar caps has been used by light cavalry since 14th century. It consists of a four-pointed top and a short peak, usually made of black or brown leather. Although rogatywka (derived from róg = horn, corner) in English seems to mean the same as czapka, the word 'czapka' in Polish designates not only rogatywka, but all caps (not hats).

Usage

It usually comes in two variants: the hardened and soft version. The hardened model, followed by rogatywka Mk. 1935, olive green with black peak, is presently used in full gala uniforms, while the rim colour marks unit type (for ex. navy blue - typical, crimson - military police, green - artillery, and so on). The soft version was used before World War II and during PRL period for garrison suits; it was withdrawn after 1990.

Polish soldiers, unlike in most military forces, decorate caps not with the emblem of the corps, but always with a modified White Eagle, which is the Polish coat of arms. The meaning of colors:

• navy blue – generals, mechanized troops, law corps and National Honour Guard
• orange – units dedicated to honor historical panzer troops, scouts
• dark green – rocket forces, artillery, anti-aircraft units
• black – engineering units, cadets
• cornflower – HQs, radio services
• cherry – medics
• scarlet – Military Police
• violet – chaplains
• yellow – headquarters, 1st Warsaw Mechanized Division, 1st Warsaw Armoured Division

Others

Rogatywka is used by Polish fire-fighters (hardened, all navy blue) and Polskie Koleje Państwowe staff (soft, navy blue or red).

Green rogatywka with brown leather peak and scout Fleur-de-lis symbol, is traditionally worn by Polish boy scouts, grey is sometimes used by girl guides.

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  Rogatywka design 1919

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  Rogatywka design 1936

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  Młodszy chorąży cap

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  Field cap

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  Honour Guard Company soldier

References