Fragmentation Vest | Learn | Canadian War Museum

A green fragmentation vest with two large pockets and an embroidered badge at the centre of the chest featuring a crown, crossed swords, two maple leaves, and the word “Canada”.

Major-General Lewis Mackenzie wearing the fragmentation vest and blue peacekeeping beret.

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In 1992, a United Nations peacekeeping force was established in Croatia and in Bosnia and Herzegovina during the Yugoslav Wars. Major-General Lewis Mackenzie became its first commander of the Sarajevo sector. He played a key role in negotiating a ceasefire to re-open Sarajevo’s airport, allowing international humanitarian aid to resume.

Mackenzie wore body armour, including this fragmentation vest, to protect himself against sniper fire and shelling. His name (MACK) and blood type (RhO(-)) were written in marker on the front of his vest to help medics identify and treat him, if he was wounded.

Supporting image: Major-General Lewis Mackenzie
George Metcalf Archival Collection, Canadian War Museum 20180249-007.1

Date Made 1992
Associated Persons Major-General Lewis W. Mackenzie
Institution Canadian War Museum
Collection --
Object No. 20180249-006
Materials Kevlar, nylon, metal, plastic

Canada and Peacekeeping Operations

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