A truly stunning piece, and a rare example of a USAF souvenir jacket from their time in North Africa. At the height of the cold war North Africa was host to a number of USAF air bases particularly in Morocco and and Libya. As part of this, Strategic Air Command deployed B-47s and B-36s there as a forward operating bases against Soviet Russia. Sidi Slimane was such a base, used from 1951 until 1963. This jacket was made for a member of the 29th Weather Squadron, who deployed to the area throughout the 1950s. Beautifully embroidered., with the SAC logo and detachment patch to the chest, a cobra to the left sleeve, New Jersey and the name George to the right sleeve, and local artwork on the back. The lining is a beautiful floral patterned silk. A great example of a rare jacket.
Condition
Very good condition, but with a couple of issues. Some light scuffing to the black silk, with two notable issues, one near the collar and one to the left of the artwork on the reverse - see images. Some light mothing to the knits but nothing major.
Size
- No tag
- Fits a medium
- Pit to pit 22"
- Shoulder to shoulder 18" (approx raglan)
- Shoulder to cuff 24" (approx raglan)
- Collar to hem 24"