Képi Médecin et Chirurgien

In the French military, a Colonel-Doctor (Médecin en chef de 1re classe) wears a distinctive kepi characterized by the specific colors and insignia of the Service de Santé des Armées (SSA).

Visual Characteristics

• Bandeau (The Band): Made of crimson velvet (velours cramoisi), the identifying color for medical officers.
• Calot (The Top):  "amarante" depending on the specific uniform era.
• Rank Insignia: Features five gold braids (soutaches) circling the band, indicating the rank of Colonel.
• Hungarian Knot: A triple gold knot (trèfle triple) is embroidered on the top.
• Buttons: Two small gilt buttons securing the gold chinstrap, often embossed with the medical symbol (a rod of Asclepius) or a flaming grenade depending on the specific branch attachment. 

Historical and Modern Context

• Titles: While the modern rank is officially "Médecin en chef de 1re classe," historical pieces from the 19th and early 20th centuries often bear the label "Médecin et Chirurgien" to denote the dual role of the officer.
• Distinctions:
  • Pharmacists wear a green velvet band.
  • Dentists wear a plum velvet (prune) band.
  • Veterinarians traditionally use garnet (grenat) velvet. 

Size : 56