Circa. 1940s
An 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 5th Infantry Division SSI on the left shoulder and 50s blue-back Corporal rank chevrons.
There were three specifications of the 2nd pattern HBT jacket: 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 a single-panel back and a gas flap.
Lightly distressed with signs of real wear and a great fade pattern - All buttons, fittings and fixtures are present. There is some light, sporadic discolouration and staining. There is a pen-written name above the left breast pocket, "Jim".
