This is an example of a standard issue Royal Air Force service coat issued at the end of the World War I. The use of the standard army pattern continued with updated RAF insignia replacing those of the Royal Flying Corps. The RAF officially adopted the familiar blue gray color on September 15, 1919 but the use of the khaki army pattern continued to be used until 1924.
This coat was worn by Capt. Cyril Nelmes during and after the war. The specifics of Capt. Nelmes' service are not known at this time.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
United Kingdom
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Uniforms: Military
Andre & Co.
Royal Air Force Captain's Service Coat; khaki wool single breasted coat; two upper button flap pockets with box pleats; two lower button flap pockets; four buttons down front; gold buttons on pockets and down front have relief of Tudor (King's) Crown and eagle depicted; embroidered Royal Air Force Pilot's badge (tan embroidered wings on black felt; embroidered text "RAF" in center of badge surrounded by brown wreath, Tudor or King's crown surmounts RAF) sewn over left front pocket; Captain's rank insignia stripes on each cuff; blue chevron on right cuff; attached with four eyelets and brass frame buckle; white manufacturer's tag sewn on inside collar with black embroidered text "ANDRE & CO. LTD. 163 PICCADILLY LONDON. W. TELEPHONE REGENT 3982 TELEGRAMES, ANDRENIQUE, PICCY. LONDON".
Clothing: 91.4 x 78.7 x 3.8cm (36 x 31 x 1 1/2 in.)
Overall: Wool, metal, cotton
A19740063000
Donated by Mrs. George H. Wingate
National Air and Space Museum
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