December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction
Lot 323:
Description
This is an authentic early-era United States Air Force Type CWU-45/P Cold Weather Flight Jacket, the garment that historically replaced the nylon MA-1 to become the standard issue cold weather flight jacket for the US military. Distinguished by its construction from fire-resistant Aramid Nomex fibers, this jacket features the distinctive -shiny- sage green sheen associated with earlier production runs before the material finish was matte-dulfed in later years. The printed white specification label is clearly legible, designating the item as -JACKETS, FLYERS , COLD WEATHER / TYPE CWU-45/P- and explicitly noting the use of fire-resistant materialÑa critical safety upgrade implemented after the Vietnam War to protect aircrews from cockpit fires.
The jacket features the standard high-mounted angled patch pockets with velcro flaps, designed to be accessible while the pilot is strapped into an ejection seat, as well as the zippered utility pocket on the left sleeve. This specific example has been outfitted with a comprehensive velcro insignia suite, including provisions for a name tag, shoulder rank, unit patches, and the distinctive shield-shaped backing on the chest for Command Pilot wings. The original knit cuffs and waistband remain intact with expected pilling, and the heavy-duty metal zipper is fully functional. This is a quintessential piece of -Top Gun- era aviation gear representing the shift to modern flame-retardant flight clothing.
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