Guards Division Circumstances

Compared with ten years ago, the East African Army had changed considerably. The 1885-type Defense Force steel helmet was especially eye-catching, instantly elevating the bearing of East African soldiers by a notch—at least, that was how Ernst saw it. After all, a thousand people had a thousand Hamlets in their eyes; there was nothing to be done if some people's tastes differed from Ernst's.

Setting aside the helmet, there were other points worth discussing, especially the enormous improvements in the quality of Defense Force uniform fabric and boot materials.

"The overall appearance of the uniforms has not changed much from before, but thanks to technological advances in textile mills in Nairobi and Mombasa, the adoption of new machinery, and the expansion of East African textile raw materials, we now have more choices. For instance, the socks are made from high-quality long-staple cotton from Somalia's cotton-producing regions. They absorb sweat and breathe well, greatly improving comfort. The development of East Africa's leather industry has also provided abundant raw materials for military boots."

As for the raw materials for military boots, leather naturally took priority. The rapid development of East African livestock farming had supplied East Africa with ample quantities of cowhide, while the region also possessed abundant leather from other animals. The most famous was the crocodile leather industry, though crocodile leather was mainly exported. Moreover, East Africa produced abundant rubber, ensuring a sufficient supply for the rubber soles of military boots.

In addition, canvas desert boots supplied to desert regions were also produced in substantial quantities within East Africa. After all, East Africa itself was a source of high-quality hemp and cotton, with sisal, jute, and many varieties of cotton all under cultivation.

"Military boots have replaced the old cloth military shoes. They handle harsh road conditions better, are easier