The vest that was worn is simply called the LBV or Load Bearing
Vest. It has many pockets for various items. But compared to the
SBO, it is rather warm and clearning SOC won't be as
comfortable.
The troopers do 2 type of patrols, green and blue. Green for recon
stuff and blue is with the blue UN cap, patrolling into the village
doing CMA (Civil Military Affairs) stuff i.e. mingling with the
locals, getting to know them as well as their concerns and lastly
to make your presence felt.
Officers and warrants are issued with the additional Sig Sauer P226
pistols. Since everyone is operating in an operational theater,
there is a required to be armed at all times. Weapon will be
"actioned" once you leave a defined area.
Everyone is also issued with a body armour to be worn when you are
outside a defined area, i.e. POB/COB (platoon/company operating
base).
Hope this helps to clear some of your doubts.
