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In early 1941, the US Army introduced the Winter Combat Uniform, consisting of a wool lined jacket, overalls and a matching "helmet". This uniform was ostensibly designed for armored vehicle crews, but proved popular with all troops as it was a far warmer and more wind proof than anything else in the inventory. The Winter Combat Jacket, nowadays referred to as the "Tanker Jacket", was a prized item among troops in WWII.
The jackets made for the first contracts, officially PQD Specification No. 26, had external patch pockets, somewhat similar to those on flight jackets, albeit without the flaps. This has become known as the "1st Model". Late in 1941, it was decided that slash pockets were preferable, and a new specification was issued early in 1942, no. 26A. The bulk of WWII tankers are of the latter type. Today, original 1st Model Tankers are one of the rarest and most expensive WWII US uniforms. I've seen maybe ten in 30 years.
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1st Model Tankers in use, 13th Armored
Regt., 1st Armored Division, Tunisia 1942-43 |
The 1st Models are essentially identical to the later Tankers aside from the pockets and the label. For our reproductions, I made sure the pocket size, shape and position is the same as the ones on my original 1st Model. Around 2011, I foolishly passed on an unissued example online, but was bright enough to save a photo of the size label. It simply said "Jackets, Medium"- and was upside down. I had ours sewn in right side up.
Our 1st Models are made with a 100% cotton twill shell, in the correct WWII shade 3 olive drab, with a water repellent finish. Zippers are brass Talons, and the cuffs, neck and waistband are elasticized wool. The cuffs are tubular meaning they have no seam. The lining is 100% wool. In addition, we stole a good idea from the Navy deck jackets and had a layer of thin nylon windproofing fabric placed between the shell and lining. It's not visible anywhere, it doesn't rattle or rustle, but it really does cut the wind.
Imported
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