*USA, WW2 era, US Army Airforce (AAF) Enlisted Man’s Four Pocket Dress Tunic*
Marked on the inside: H-4311 Lloyd H Hart 91174311 38R
44.4cm shoulder to shoulder. 77.5cm back length.
An original US WW2 era Enlisted Man’s Four Pocket dress tunic.
USAAF and US screw-back collar insignia. The ruptured Duck Insignia. Army Air Forces WW2 Shoulder Sleeve Insignia.
The honorable discharge insignia, often referred to as a “ruptured duck,” is a small patch issued to honorably discharged veterans. This patch was sewn onto a veteran’s service coat upon their departure from military service and was used during WWII.
The shoulder sleeve insignia worn by all Army Air Forces (AAF) personnel, regardless of their station, was approved on 23 February 1942. Designed by artist and General Arnold’s staff member Mr. James T. Rawls, the patch initially went through several iterations, most featuring pilot wings, which were all rejected by Arnold. Discouraged, Rawls saw a picture of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill making his famous “V for Victory” sign. Inspired, he quickly sketched wings bent upwards, which Arnold approved, saying, “That’s just what I wanted.” On 2 March 1943, shoulder sleeve insignia were authorized for each overseas air force, restricting the winged star to AAF personnel not in overseas commands. By 25 June 1943, all air force personnel, including those within the United States, were authorized to wear distinctive insignia. Only Headquarters AAF and a few other independent commands continued to wear the winged star. This emblem is sometimes referred to as the Hap Arnold emblem, named after General Henry H. Arnold, who commanded the AAF during World War II.
*Condition*
This WW2 US Army Airforce jacket is in excellent condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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