My god, is this a jacket and a half - built like a tank. This incredibly rare 1959 Extreme Cold Weather Deck Jacket is the forerunner to the rather more common A1 Jacket that was used throughout the 60s Vietnam era. However, there are some substantial differences. First, and most notably, is the removable zip hood. This connects via a zip which when not in use can be hidden beneath a placket running around the neck. Secondly is a large pocket on the sleeve that would be removed in later variations.
Of special interest with this is both the name and the hood. This was used by a Navy Officer - named as LTJG R A Schofield operating in Vietnam as part of ACU1, who were station in Da Nang from 1962 onwards. This certainly would have been used in that period - though may have been a little hot for the climate! The plaque came from the same estate sale and is included with the jacket.
More interesting to me is the hood. There are two types of hood for these jackets, a fur version, and a peak version. This is the latter. Interesting, these have removal face guards that can be stored in the sides of the hood when not in use. The few of these hoods that I've seen have always had them removed, so great to see the visor in place - definitely one of the more dramatic hood designs.
Condition:
This is in amazing, worn condition. There has been a name tape removed, the knits have shrunk a touch and the label is washed out. Otherwise she's perfect! Unfortunately I don't have the removable liner, but these can be found on ebay.
Size:
- Tagged a modern large
- Fits modern large
- Pit to pit 26"
- Shoulder to shoulder 26"
- Shoulder to cuff 22"
- Collar to hem 26"