Original World War Two US Army M1942 Airborne Paratrooper Jump Jacket with heavy combat wear.
Original M1942 Airborne Jump jacket in Olive Drab #3 with actual signs of combat wear and staining. The jacket consists of four front pockets with two button snaps on each top flap, with 2 rows on the pockets, to secure different sized items. The jacket also does have the dual-zippered knife pocket located on the upper lapel which was designed to contain a switchblade pocketknife, used to cut the parachute rigging if entangled. The top two pockets were also angled inward to make items easier to retrieve with the opposite hand. This example does not have a flag patch or any other insignia.
The jacket is very well worn, with what appears to be blood staining/specks to the sleeves and inner areas. There are also several holes and small pulls from natural wear. The color is a bit faded, along with darken staining to areas. The original belt is not present.
Due to the somewhat fragile nature of these jackets, the M1942 pattern was often reinforced with thicker, tougher canvas on the elbows, crotch and knees. However, this example was never reinforced, indicating early issue. The M42 was worn by Paratroopers assigned to Airborne units and famously worn by the 82nd Airborne Division and 101st Airborne Division during the Normandy Invasion. The M42 was eventually phased out in favor of the M1943 Uniform which was a darker green, OD #7. Despite this, various individuals chose to keep their M42s in order to show their veteran status.
This is a true piece of History reflecting the American Experience in the Second World War and makes an incredible edition to any US Militaria collection or D-Day display!
Flat garment measurements (inches):
Chest: 36" (18” P2P)
Length: 30”
Sleeve: 22”
