Circa Vietnam War - 1960s
A stunning example of the ubiquitous poncho liner tour jacket. These were among the quintessential must-have souvenirs for servicemen serving in Southeast Asia. Entirely Vietnamese tailor-made, this example displays embroidery denoting the original owner's name "Jimmy", and the years he served in Vietnam "69-70". There is a large novelty "Southeast Asia Wargames Participant" patch on the left breast and an E-5 Specialist rank patch on either arm.
A superb, humble poncho liner tour jacket that has seen plenty of real wear. Well-used, but far from abused, it's not very often that you see a tour jacket that was clearly well-loved by its original owner. With basic embroidery and fairly crude mamasan-style tailoring, it's clear that this jacket was purchased and customised to be worn as a practical piece of clothing.
During the Vietnam period, tour jackets embellished with over-the-top embroidery, such as the typical "When I die" text, were viewed as rather ostentatious and were often purchased simply to take home as souvenirs. Wearing them around base would attract a lot of unwanted attention.
The addition of his rank further indicates that this was most likely worn in-country.
What's also cool to see is the solid-green fabric used to hem the cuffs and welt the pockets - This is salvaged fabric from the border of the original poncho liner. The buttoned front closure is also a nice, seldom-seen touch, which further adds to its humble character.
The only significant embellishment is the SEA War Games Participant patch, which is a beautiful Vietnamese-made example - Entirely stitched by hand, except for the black machine-stitched border.
One of my favourite tour jackets that I've had, simply due to its uniqueness, humility, and signs of real wear.
The jacket exhibits signs of real wear, which is represented in its condition and character. Please study the photos carefully.
Flat garment measurements in inches:
Chest: 44" (22" P2P)
Length: 29"
Arm: 24"
Shoulder: 20"
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