Genuine US Military issue
Circa 1940s
A beautifully patched second pattern HBT jacket from the late World War 2 era. These jackets were worn by US troops from 1943 until the end of WW2 and throughout the Korean War.
It displays originally applied insignia including a silk gold-on-black jacquard woven US Army branch tape, a stamped black-on-white name tape, Sergeant First Class rank chevrons, an 11th Armored Division patch, and a 23rd Infantry Regiment pocket patch. The 2nd Infantry Division patch on the left shoulder is a post-1968 merrowed edge example and was likely applied post-service to restore the jacket to its original configuration.
There were three specifications of the 2nd pattern, 45B, 45C, and 45D, each with various design nuances. They were produced in colours OD-8 and later, OD-7, but each exhibited a spectrum of hues depending on the manufacturer - some appearing more greenish and others more brownish. This example is a 45D with centre-pleated pockets, and metal '13-Star' buttons.
Made from a soft selvedge cotton herringbone twill fabric with two massive chest pockets for about as many personal effects as you'll ever need.
Excellent condition with signs of real wear and a subtle fade pattern - All buttons, fittings and fixtures are present. The top button is missing the 13-star cap. There is some sporadic discolouration and staining as seen. There is some wear around the collar as shown. There are some period-made repairs on the back as shown.
