Original Korean War US Air Force Unit 4 21st Troop Carrier Squadron A2 Blood Chit Leather Bomber Jacket.
Although primarily known for its use during World War Two, the A2 bomber jacket also had a significant presence in the early days of the Korean War. In order to standardize their inventory, the Air Force quickly repurposed and re-dyed many of their unused WW2 A2 bomber jackets, resulting in a consistent dark leather appearance. Upon closer inspection of the zipper rail, one can see remnants of the original brown dye and the removal of tags.
This particular piece has a unique and intriguing background. When the Korean War broke out, the 21st Troop Carrier Squadron was sent to Kyushu Japan. As part of their duties, a small section known as “Unit 4” specialized in Special Operations and Psychological Warfare. Classified for 25 years after the war ended, this clandestine unit flew B-26 and C-47 aircraft flying dangerous special missions assigned to them involving the insertion of agents, dissemination of propaganda via leaflets, low-altitude flight with loudspeakers urging enemy forces to surrender, and their key participation in "Operation Firefly" which involved the dropping of flares to expose enemy positions. This covert and highly dangerous operation was carried out in coordination with the Army, Air Force, and CIA. The embroidered patch on the front is an incredibly rare find, as we have not been able to find any other examples. The four leaf clover patch features the Psywar unit on the left, the bottom is for "Operation Firefly", the one on the right is for "Unit 4", and the top one remains unidentified. The reverse side of the jacket displays a traditional painted UN blood chit, with the flags of the USA, UK, South Korea, and the United Nations, along with a written plea in Korean for local assistance in the event of the pilot's capture.
This A2 remains in remarkably good condition for being 80+ years old. The leather is soft and smooth, with the exception of cracking from age. The original tag was removed during the dyeing process and the female zipper rail is broken. Despite this, the lining is still in great shape with just some marks from previous use and dye. While the artwork on the reverse may have faded over time, it remains strong. There are a few moth holes in the knitted parts, especially on the reverse. Please note that, although this jacket is in excellent condition for a painted A2, it is being sold as a collectible display rather than a functional piece of clothing.
Measurements:
- No tag, but would have been a size 40
- Fits a medium/large
- Pit to pit 21"
- Shoulder to shoulder 19"
- Shoulder to cuff 24"
- Collar to hem 23"'
