US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
  • Load image into Gallery viewer, US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
  • Load image into Gallery viewer, US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
  • Load image into Gallery viewer, US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
  • Load image into Gallery viewer, US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
  • Load image into Gallery viewer, US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
  • Load image into Gallery viewer, US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
  • Load image into Gallery viewer, US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket
  • Load image into Gallery viewer, US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket

US Navy WW2 M-421A Summer Flying Jacket

Regular price
$0.00
Sale price
$0.00
Regular price
Sold out
Unit price
per 

In the hot climates of the pacific the standard issue M422 leather flying jackets were not necessarily appropriate, being both hot and uncomfortable. The ideal replacements were the series of Summer Flying Jackets that would start with the M-421A and go through various iterations well into the 60s.

These cotton twill jackets were designed to provide a layer of windproofing to aircrew, whilst being lightweight enough to be comfortable in the heat. However, the weight of the cotton wasn't hugely durable, so very few survive in good condition today.

This particular example, from a 1942 Willis & Geiger Inc contract is not just in great condition, it's been taken by the airman to have custom embroidery done. On the front is an incredible squadron patch for VA-154, known as The Flying Cannons, a short-lived group that flew Curtiss SB2C Helldivers between 1945-49. On the reverse is a stunning Chinese dragon that shows the airman's journey across the pacific. I believe this style of embroidery to be Chinese and likely date around 1946.

Needless to say, this is a very rare piece with incredible artistry and artwork.

Condition

In excellent condition, very strong khaki colours, original Talon zipper works perfectly and no damage bar a light unpicking to Saipan on the embroidery.

Size

  • Tagged a size 42
  • Fits a modern large
  • Pit to pit 22.5"
  • Shoulder to shoulder 19"
  • Shoulder to cuff 23"
  • Collar to hem 24.5"