US Navy G-1 Flight Jackets (1942 – 1943, 1949)

Early Cold War (1945 - 1968), Later Cold War (1969 - 1989), Other Uniforms, United States, Vietnam War, World War 2 (1939 - 1945)

WW2 M-422A (March 1942 – January 1943):

Tag:

Contract 1406-A was dated between March 1942 and January 1943 [1].

Collar:

There may be remnants of the “USN” painted here via stencil.

Pockets:

“Union MAde” tag inside left pocket (as worn).

Sleeves:

Holes on sleeve expose rayon lining.

Cuffs:

Inside Pocket:

There is an inside pocket on the left side (as worn).

Flap:

No markings on the flap.

Zipper:

Korean War Spec 5514J (AER) G-1 (1949 – 1951):

Tag:

Contract N383s-2211 was awarded some time between 1949 and 1951 to the Aviator’s Clothing Co., formerly the Aero Leather Clothing Co., which previously made A-2 jackets for the USAAF [2].

Patches:

This jacket was used into the Vietnam War. The USS Mattaponi (AO-41) was a refueling tanker that made several trips to the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia during the 1960’s in support of the 7th Fleet [3]. There were other patches on the chest and shoulders that have since been removed.

Pockets:

Inside:

Collar:

Flap:

No markings on flap.

Cuffs:

Comparison with waist knit, which appears original.

Cuffs are likely replacements since previous stitch lines are visible.

Zipper:

Zipper is a replacement. C&C stands for “Coats and Clarks” [4].