Military Uniform Purse from Old School BDU's

My husband joined the Army before they went to the ACU and I had several old BDU's. The new ACU's are the digital print that look kind of grey green. The older BDU's are what you see in this photo. This pair of pants I used has been to Iraq and Special Forces Qualification Course.  The patches also have been to Iraq and are from his old unit.  I will be adding new patches when he comes home from his next deployment with his new unit.  I use the old name tapes on the back side and left the front pockets functional so I can use them.

I did not think I would need a step by step tutorial so here is an overview of what I did.  I took a pair of pant and cut them across about an inch below the crotch.  I then turned it inside out and opened the crotch and sewed all the way across the bottom closing up the bottom of the purse.  I made sure not to sew the pockets into the bottom leaving them functional. I attached the belt that was a standard Army belt and use it as a strap. I cut it in half and left the buckle in place. I needed a heavy duty sharp needle to attach the strap. I then added a zipper to the top.  I placed all the patches after the purse was together.  I used old patches for everything. The purse has stains on it but my husband can tell you what they are from. I am torn on covering them with patches or leaving them to show.  I did not line the bag. I think if I was doing this bag over I would line it and add some inside pockets. I still love it and think I will be changing over to this purse tonight.