December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 291:
Description
This original World War II Officers B 13 Flight Jacket is a complete and well preserved example, fully dressed with wartime insignia confirming service as a USAAF Navigator in the Pacific Theater. The B 13 was a distinctive short officers jacket issued for both flight and general duty.
Constructed of Olive Drab wool or gabardine, the jacket features the classic short cut with a zip front design, shown here in the open position. The collar is finished in brown corduroy, while the interior retains its bright gold orange rayon satin lining, a hallmark of officer grade garments. The original US Government specification label remains intact inside the collar, reading JACKET OFFICERS FLIGHT TYPE B 13 SIZE 38 and manufactured by Woolcraft Mfg Co under 1942 1943 contract.
The jacket carries a full set of period applied insignia. The left shoulder displays the embroidered Shoulder Sleeve Insignia of the 7th Army Air Force, a unit that served extensively throughout the central Pacific. The collar points are fitted with miniature branch insignia. Above the left breast pocket is a full size silver toned USAAF Navigator Wing, a three inch sterling badge marked AE Co on the reverse for the respected maker A E Company. A miniature pilot or command pilot wing is mounted on the pocket flap below.
This ensemble represents a high quality and historically significant officers jacket from a wartime Navigator who served in the Pacific campaigns.
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