One of the most iconic pieces of WW2 clothing, famous as much for it's long march across Europe as it is for a certain taxi driver! What many people might not know, is that the name Tanker was only really applied post war, these were officially known as Jacket Winter, Combat. This is an example of the second pattern, and it was one of the most well liked and widely used jackets of the war. Issued to tank crews certainly, but these were worn by everyone from the navy shore parties through to USAAF fighter pilots. And it's obvious to see why, these are a beautifully crafted piece with a great fit, and perfect for providing warmth in winter.
This is a very rare USAAF example, issued to a pilot and complete with period embroidered pilot wings and captain ranks to the shoulder. Along with this it's named to 'Capt Gutheil'. After extensive research, I believe this belonged to a Kenneth F Gutheil (1923 - 1993), a B-24 pilot and crew commander who flew in the pacific with the 5th Bombardment Group, the 'Bomber Barons'. Gutheil would participate in the pre-invasion bombardments of Mindanao, Cebu and Panay, all in the Philippines, and was one of the first to attack Indochina. Promoted to 1st Lt in June 1945 on completion of 30 mission, he would be awarded the Air Medal with Oak Leaf clusters in September 1945. He would say in the Air Force after the war, leaving in December 1946.
Not only is this a USAAF example, it's in extremely good condition - This is one of only two examples I've seen that still has the generic size label in the collar. Tankers came with both the standard QMD labels, and the generic size label, which so often were worn off with use.
Condition
Excellent condition. Original Talon zipper works like a charm, lining is excellent, no damage to the shell, even around the cuffs! There are a few marks to the shell, and what look like two hand-stitched moth repairs to left cuff and front right waist, but otherwise she's perfect. A beautiful example.
Size
- Tagged a medium
- Pit to pit 25"
- Shoulder to shoulder 19.5"
- Shoulder to cuff 23.5"
- Collar to hem 24"