\Whilst the A2 might have the glory as the flying jacket of choice, the photographic record really shows that the B-10 was the workhorse of the USAAF, especially from mid-1943 onwards. The USAAF very quickly found the leather and shearling jackets inadequate for the task faced in the cold European skies, and by October 1942, just a few months after the first bombing raid by the newly formed 8th Air Force, development on a new alpaca lined flying suit was underway.
The new pattern, based substantially on the shape of the A2 was standardised and introduced on July 22 1943. These proved immensely popular with aircrews, and many would be worn until the fell apart. Unfortunately the cotton twill outers just weren't as robust as the later nylon, and many remaining today are substantially damaged.
Condition
This is in used but solid condition. There is some wear to the cuffs around the ends of the sleeves, as well as some moth nips on the kits. On both pockets there is a little damage around the corners. One area of wear on the elbow.
Size
- Tagged a 38
- Fits a modern small/medium
- Pit to pit 22"
- Shoulder to shoulder 19"
- Shoulder to cuff 22"
- Collar to hem 24"