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In 1931, the United States Air Corps issued an order to update and modify the Type A-1 flight jacket. The significant design changes of the jacket included replacing the button down front with a zipper and the knit collar with a leather drop fall collar. The new jacket was designated -- Type A-2. This jacket became associated with American pilots serving on every front during World War II and is still issued by the U.S. Air Force today. Many pilots and aircrews modified their jackets with custom artwork that depicted the name of their aircraft. These jackets are nick named "Painted Ladies" for the common practice of using the pinup girls for the aircraft's name and nose art.

This jacket was worn by Tech. Sergeant Darnell, "Flak Bait's radio operator during World War II.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Flight Clothing Physical Description United States Army Air Forces Type A-2 Flying Jacket; waist length seal brown horsehide jacket with brown knit wool cuffs and waist band; brass zipper down front; two front flap pockets with hidden snaps; stand and fall collar with snaps; brown rayon lining; shoulder straps; dark brown sewn in manufacturer's tag with embroidered gold text on inside collar (see inscriptions for full text); painting of Martin B-26 and 65 bombs on back of jacket; "Don" on painted on right front breast. Dimensions Clothing (Arms Folded): 71.1 x 54.6cm (28 x 21 1/2 in.)
Clothing Size: 38
 Materials Overall: Leather
Cuffs and Waist Band: Knit Wool
Cotton, Brass, Steel, Paint, Nylon
 Inventory Number A19780399000 Credit Line Donated By Mr. and Mrs. McDonald Darnell Jr. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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