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Description
This is an original WWII U.S. Army Air Force uniform grouping, consisting of a wool service jacket, M37 wool service shirt, three garrison caps, trousers belt, and a set of collar discs. Although not physically marked as such, this grouping once belonged to Technical Sergeant William T. Alexander, who served with the "Carpetbaggers" of the 858th Bombardment Squadron, 801st Bombardment Group (subsequently the 492nd when it assumed the secret "Carpetbagger" missions in August of 1944), 8th Air Force. According to this grouping's prior owner, T/Sgt. Alexander (much to his displeasure) was required to turn in his well-worn uniform at war's end for this replacement set. We can not only discern that he likely never wore it, as it still retains its original "COMBAT SERVICEABLE" paper tags, but also that it was previously issued to at least one different serviceman. Both the jacket and shirt feature original matching technical sergeant rank insignia patches and honorable service ruptured duck patches, whereas just the jacket retains a one-year overseas service patch on the wearer's left cuff. The jacket was manufactured on February 7, 1940, by Jules Segal & Co. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The size 15 x 33 shirt's manufacturer's label has deteriorated; however, we can see it is dated April 16, 1942. The wool garrison cap marked with the laundry number of "A-8107" was produced on April 30, 1943, by Omaha Cap & Hat Mfg. Co., and is a size 7. The khaki garrison cap with Army Air Corps "ultramarine" and "golden orange" piping was manufactured on July 28, 1942, by Continental Hat & Cap Co. of Kansas City, Missouri, and is also a size 7. The second wool garrison cap is a size 7 1/8. Unfortunately, its manufacturer's label could not be located; however, its original cutters tags remain intact. The enlisted man's trousers belt measures approximately 33.75 inches overall in length and 1.25 inches in width. An original shoelace is tied to it. The "U.S." collar disc features a screwback reverse, while the Army Air Corps is a clutchback example. The final image is provided compliments of this grouping's prior owner and shows T/Sgt. Alexander (back row, middle) with other members of the 492nd Bombardment Group.
Provenance
Personal Collection of Chelius Carter
Condition Report
Fair
Good
Excellent
This uniform grouping is in fair condition. The wool pieces exhibit significant mothing.
