A fine uniform grouping consisting of Petty Officer Third Class Roger L. Weir's US Navy uniform and a sublime USAF Linecrewman jacket, which he wore recreationally.
His grouping of items consists of all the usual suspects for a sailor of this period; however, what was most unusual to find was the 1950s U.S. Air Force Linecrewman jacket alongside his service uniform. Speculatively, it is assumed that Weir purchased the jacket in a surplus shop, or perhaps bought or traded it from an airman. Nevertheless, an incredible photograph from his post-service years shows Weir wearing the jacket on his BMW motorcycle.
The 'JACKET, LINECREWMAN, IDENTIFYING, TYPE G-1' (Spec. No. MIL-J-6249A) was worn by ground personnel involved in aircraft movement & handling, where making the individual conspicuous to the pilot was crucial. The bright, checkered yellow/orange & black squares allowed pilots looking through aircraft canopies, particularly at a distance or under poor lighting/weather conditions, to distinguish the line crewman giving hand signals. Designed to be worn as an outer garment, over the standard period uniform, it is made from a lightweight nylon fabric with a simple Talon brand zip front closure and a small pocket on the left arm.
For further information about Weir's life and career, click HERE to view an article dedicated to him (internal link).
