Silver Wings, Pinks and Greens: Uniforms, Wings & Insignia of Usaaf Airmen in World War II (Schiffer Military History)

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS Jon A. Maguire

~RWINGS, ~&G ENS Uniforms, Wings & Insignia of USAAF Airmen in World War II Jon A. Maguire

Schiffer Military/Aviation History Atglen, PA

Acknowledgements his book would not have been possible without significant con- Wendell Hoppers, Ralph Jenks, Mike Nordin, Burt Sheriff, Robert tributions from numerous sources. Special thanks to Ann L. Slusher, Tim Smetana, Jeff Spielberg (JS Industries), Joe W. Stevens Wagner and Stackpole Books for their help and permission to re- and Ron Willis. print portions of the 1943 and 1944 editions of "The Officer's Guide." A very special thanks goes to my wife, Rhonda, who put in This information is a significant addition to this work. long hours deciphering my handwriting and typing the manuscript. My friends John and Donna Campbell of Campbell Archives (Also for putting up with a room full of my toys.) opened their home and collection to me and provided numerous Thanks to my Dad who always has the time to answer my endcontemporary photographs. less questions about his Army Air Force experience. The following collectors and historians opened access to their Thanks to Bob Biondi for constant counsel! collections and allowed original pieces to be photographed for inSpecial thanks to Jack Ilfrey for kindly writing the foreword. clusion in this work: Martin Callahan, John Conway, John Cook, Every effort has been made to give proper credit for the World Mike Davidson, Dale Edwards, David Henderson, John Hopkins, War II photographs contained herein, but in some cases I was not Bill Linke, Rick Markel, Pat Moran, Chris Oliver, Michael J. Perry, able to locate the original photographer. My apologies if I have overMick Prodger, and Mike Whitson. looked anyone. Many additional friends, including World War II veterans, made For those who wish to contribute to future volumes, please concontributions also. They include: F. Paul Bowen, Tom Carmichael, tact me courtesy of Schiffer Publishing at the address below. Mike Conner, General George Eade, Dolph Farrand, Dave Goleman, Again, my sincere thanks to all who contributed to this work!

T

For Sean & Megan

On front dustjacket: Lt. Col. Oris Johnson of the 422nd N.ES. wearing a tailor made Ike jacket with all bullion insignia. (Stegner via Campbell) Page 1: Lt. Joe D. Maguire, C-47 pilot of the 321st Air Transport Squadron, 27th Air Transport Group, wearing winter service dress uniform, "Silver Wings, Pinks & Greens."

Book Design by Robert Biondi Copyright © 1994 by Jon A. Maguire. Library of Congress Catalog Number: 93-87477 All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or used in any forms or by any means - graphic, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying or information storage and retrieval systems - without written permission from the copyright holder. Printed in China. ISBN: 0-88740-578-9 We are interested in hearing from authors with book ideas on related topics.

Published by Schiffer Publishing Ltd. 77 Lower Valley Road Atglen, PA 19310 Please write for a free catalog. This book may be purchased from the publisher. Please include $2.95 postage. Try your bookstore first.

CONTENTS Acknowledgements Foreword by Capt. Jack Hfrey (USAAF, Ret.) Introduction

Chapter I Chapter II Chapter III

4 7 9

Uniforms & Insignia Wings & Other Qualification Badges Army Air Force Patches

11 69 119

Appendix Bibliography

169 191

FOREWORD by Capt. Jack Ilfrey, (USAAF, Ret.)

M

ost all of our generation should remember the song from WWII "He Wore A Pair of Silver Wings", which certainly distinguished us from other branches of the service. The author has done a magnificent job of collecting and identifying all of these WWII uniforms, wings, and insignia of the USAAF Airmen, and the publisher is to be congratulated for this beautiful edition. In going through the book, the many color pictures and captions brought back great nostalgic memories for me and events long forgotten, and I learned things I never knew or realized before. I feel sure others will share that same experience. One amusing event that I can recall relating to our uniforms. After we P-38 pilots of the 94th "Hat In the Ring" Fighter Squadron completed th~ Bolero Mission in July, 1942 (first mass flight of fighters across the N. Atlantic) we were stationed at the permanent base, Kirton-In-Lindsey, Lincolnshire. We were housed in the officers quarters and wined . and dined at the Officers Club. At first the staid and reserved English officers were shocked and amazed at the different combinations of uniforms we appeared in - pinks and greens, flight suits, A-2 jackets and several styles of head gear. They seemed to wear only one style, Royal blue blouse and pants. We got the impression we were being treated like Colonials. This book will be a great guide to collectors, historians, and memories for the veterans. We airmen were proud to wear our uniforms. After we have all gone on to Valhalla, Jon Maguire's book will be here, in perpetuit)T, for future generations to see the way we were. 7

Lautersteins Military Clothiers San Antonio, Texas Price list October 1941 ITEM

COST

3 Patches

$ 52.50 45.00 27.00 17.50 3.50 3.95 2.00 10.00 3.00 2.75 3.50 1.50 1.50 3.90 39.50 2.00 .75

Total

$219.85

Blouse Pinks and Greens Pinks and Greens Shirts Luxemburg Hat Green "F" Caps Poplin Shirt 2 Ties Shoes 6 Sox Insignias Wings Belt 2 Bars 2 "M" Bars Trench Coat 2 Wings

OPPOSITE: Jack Ilfrey, 94th Pursuit Squadron, 1st Pursuit Group, Long Beach, California, circa February 1942, wearing "Pinks & Greens. "

INTRODUCTION

T

he purpose of this volume is to provide a photographic reference and record of the uniforms . and related insignia worn by the men of the United States Army Air Forces from 1941 through 1945. Some women's items are covered, but the primary focus is on men's uniforms and insignia. (The W.A.5.P.' s served with distinction, but technically were not in the Army Air Force.) The book is divided into three sections: uniforms and related insignia worn on the uniforms; wings and other qualification badges; and patches. Flying clothing and equipment will be covered in a separate volume. With the kind permission of Stackpole Books, I have used sections of the 1943 and 1944 editions of "The Officer's Guide" to provide the reader access to the original uniform regulations. Several changes occUI'!ed between these years, which I have pointed out. (It should be noted that changes could likely be found between any editions of the war years, but 1943 to 1944 was significant because of the addition of numerous wing badges and revisions in outer wear regulations.) This book covers officer's and enlisted items, both regulation and non-regulation. It would be virtually impossible to write the" complete" work on U.S.A.A.F. uniforms and insignia as variations surface constantly. I hope this work will provide the reader with a broad and solid overview of the subject. It is intended as a reference for collectors and modelers, a record for historians, and a book of memories for veterans. The general format I have followed is to provide color photographs of actual items, as well as contemporary photographs of the items in use, accompanied by appropriate commentary. My inspiration for this work came from growing up with the influence of my Dad, an Army Air Force pilot. As a small boy I would get out my father's "pinks and greens" from the hall closet and dream of the day I would be big enough to wear them (now I am too big!). Dad would always (and still does) take time to tell me stories of flying in England, France, and Germany. We went back to England together several years ago, which was a time I will always cherish. Mom and Dad were part or a generation forced 8

INTRODUCTION

to grow up too fast and meet the challenge of war. I hope this book will in some way be a tribute to them and to all people of their remarkable generation.

*** The study of uniforms and insignia of an Army at war is a fascinating subject. Because of the pressures of war, regulations tend to be relaxed or ignored. Units grow and change quickly. Primary focus is on the challenge at hand. The Army Air Force is no exception! The U.S. Army Air Force of World War II grew from 1100 airplanes at the time of the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941, to 80,000 airplanes by 1944. Approximately 2,400,000 men served in the United States Army Air Force in World War II. Clothing and equipping a Force of that size was no small task. It involved numerous industries across the U.S. and a number of allied countries. Officers were required to purchase their own uniforms. Some wore the finest money could buy, while others did what was necessary to get by. This resulted in tremendous variations in style, cloth, design of insignia, and materials used in the manufacturing of uniforms, wing badges and patches. Flyers, by nature, tend to be very individualistic even flamboyant at times. This, coupled with relaxed regulations, individual taste, supply problems, and regional variations, produced some very interesting uniforms and insignia! Garments like the "Ike" jacket and the bush jacket were created out of a desire for comfort and utility, relative to the theater of operation and the job at hand. The U.s. Army service dress uniform "pinks and greens" remains one of the sharpest uniforms ever worn by the American military. The various color combinations of coat, trousers, shirt and tie authorized for wear, allowed the officer some individual choice about what he wanted to wear and still remain in uniform. The "50 mission crusher" service cap also allowed a vehicle for expression of personality. These components of the uniform, along with the pride associated with individual unit insignia, contributed to the great esprit de corp of the United States Army Air Force!

9

CHAPTERI

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA A

t the time of World War II, the Army Air Forces were part of the U.S. Army. The uniform regulatiol).s were therefore basically the same for Army Air Force personnel as for regular Army officers and enlisted men. One notable exception, which ultimately gave the Army Air Forces a unique identity, was the service cap. In reference to the service cap, "The Officers Guide" states, "Officers of the Army Air Forces wear a similar cap except front spring stiffening may be omitted and the grommet may be removed." This regulation created the "50 mission crush" hat so treasured by Army Air Force service men. The regulation was written because flyers had to wear headphones over their service caps. Arguably, the most popular officer's uniform in U.S. Army history was the "pinks and greens" of the World War II era. The color of the winter service coat was No. 51 (dark shade) olive drab, 141/2-26 ounce elastique, barathea or whipcord wool. The trousers to be worn with this coat were in two optional 'colors; No. 51, which matched the coat or drab No. 54 (light shade). It was drab No. 54 (light shade) which was known popularly as "pink." The color is a grayish khaki drab shade, which in certain lighting has a definite pink cast - thus the name "pinks and greens." The summer service uniform was solid khaki.

-

Complete Army Air Force officer's uniform as worn. The figure holds an officer's overcoat or "trench coat." The shirt is "pink" and the tie olive drab. This photograph provides six examples of pinks and greens in use by officers of the 422nd N.F.S. Note the officer first from left wears a dark olive drab tie, while the remaining wear the khaki tie. The officer fourth from left wears the dark olive drab shirt. All of the officers wear the Garrison or "overseas" cap. (Stegner via Campbell)

11

OPPOSITE: B-24 pilot Burt Sheriff in winter service uniform after returning from the Pacific. (Sheriff)

12

SILVER WINGS; PINKS & GREENS Portions of "The Officers Guide" 1944 edition, which describe the uniforms and insignia of the u.s. Army in detail are reprinted in the appendix. Officer's uniforms of the World War II era are especially interesting because they were made in tailor shops around the world. u.s. Army officers had to purchase their own uniforms, so quality, material and even to some extent design, varies. There were" off the rack" versions available at the PX and there were those made at the finest tailor shops on Saville Row.

Label from the fine old U.S. clothing firm of Hickey-Freeman in a winter service coat. Regulation Army officer's uniform label as found in the "off the rack" variety of uniform.

Label of Sol Frank Military Supply Co., San Antonio, Texas. (Edwards)

Raman Tailor's label, London in a U.S. Army officer's "Ike" jacket. (Edwards) Left: Label from Richards of Sidney, Australia in a U.S. Army officer's uniform. (Edwards)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

13

The Winter Service Uniform -"Pinks and Greens"

The officers of this B-26 crew are wearing pinks and greens with service caps. The enlisted men wear the enlisted service uniform with Garrison caps.

Right: Seated figure wearing an 8th Air Force officer's "pinks and greens." The shirt and tie are khaki. Note the R.A.F. pilot wing on the figure's right side. (Michael]. Perry)

P-51 pilot Bert McDowell Jr. in winter service uniform. It is somewhat unusual to find photos of A.A.F. combat veterans wearing service caps with the grommet in place. (Michael]. Perry)

C-47 pilot Joe D. Maguire after graduation from the Class of 44D in winter service uniform.

WL. "Tony" Hoppers wearing winter servIce uniform with "pink" shirt and olive drab tie. Tony flew a tour in B-26 Marauders and ended the war in C-47's in Europe. (Hoppers)

14

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

An unnamed B-25 pilot of the 491st Bomb Squadron in winter service dress uniform.

This captain of the 422nd N.F.S. in winter service uniform has a number of unusual points of interest. One, he wears a collar pin and soft collared shirt (non-regulation), two, he wears an air gunner wing, which is most often found on enlisted men, three, he is wearing eye glasses with a wing on his uniform, four, the captain is wearing a World War I Victory Ribbon with two stars indicating he was twice "mentioned in dispatch" (these stars later became the Bronze Star Medal, for which he also wears a ribbon), and five, he is not wearing World War I hash marks on his sleeve - if photos could only talk! (Stegner via Campbell)

Left: Many Americans of African descent served with distinction in the U.S.AAF. Although the most famous were the fighter pilots of the 99th Fighter Squadron, they were by no means the only ones, as this photo demonstrates. This unidentified Flight Officer, in winter service dress, served as a navigator, as indicated by his wings. The distinctive insignia worn on his epaulets are Gulf Coast AAF. Training Center.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

15 Left: Front and back of U.S.AAF. winter service dress coat made by Palace Clothing Co. in Kansas City. Palace made uniforms of exceptionally high quality. This uniform coat was worn by C-47 pilot Joe D. Maguire, 321st Air Transport Squadron, 27th Air Transport Group.

Label of Palace Clothing Co.

Left: This AA.F. winter service coat was made by Brooks Brothers. Above: Bullion wing on blue background sewn to left chest of Brooks Brothers winter service coat. Right: Brooks Brothers label inside pocket of winter service coat. (Edwards)

16

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS Left: This beautifully preserved winter service dress coat was worn by Joseph, W. Stevens, who was also a C-47 pilot in the 321st Air Transport Squadron.

Right: A beautifully tailored 8th Air Force bombardier's winter service dress coat with all bullion insignia. Below: Detail of bullion collar insignia and wing on 8th Air Force bombardier's service dress coat.

Below: Bullion 8th Air Force patch on left shoulder of bombardier's winter service dress uniform.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

Above: U.S.A.A.F. winter service coat made by Lauterstein's of San Antonio. This uniform coat was worn by B-26 pilot Roger H. Swan. Note the "clipped" pilot wing popular among B-26 pilots. Below: Label of Lauterstein's of San Antonio. (Edwards)

Above: A very high quality U.S.A.A.F. officer's winter uniform coat with matching trousers by Chester Barrie of Great Britain. Below: Tailor's label of Chester Barrie. (Edwards)

17

Above: Winter service coat offlight officer rank. Flight officers coats did not have the band at the cuff found on officer's coats. This coat was worn by glider pilot Charles V. Miller, 23rd Troop Carrier Squadron, 349th Troop Carrier Group. Below: Detail of Miller's service coat with glider pilot wing, flight officer rank insignia and English made 9th Troop Carrier Command shoulder patch visible.

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

18

Front and reverse of "Pink" wool U.S. Army officer's trousers worn with the winter service coat. The dark shade olive drab trousers were the same cut.

The Officer's Summer Service Uniform The summer service uniform was not a required item. It was a solid khaki uniform made of cotton, 8.2 ounce:

rayon, plain or twill weave; cotton warp, mohair filling; tropical worsted; or gabardine. Perhaps the most elegantof these in appearance was the tropical worsted.

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Brigadier General LaVerne G. Saunders in summer tan service uniform. (U.S.A.A.F.)

This glider pilot is wearing the summer service uniform. (Conway)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

19

Front and back of Summer service coat worn by C-47 pilot Joe D. Maguire. The coat was made by Palace Clothing Co. It is 100% tropical worsted wool. 1

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Close up of beautifully detailed bullion pilot wing on Joe Maguire's summer service coat.

20

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

The Enlisted Service Dress or "Class A" Uniform The enlisted man's uniform of World War II was made of wool serge in a lighter shade of olive drab than the officer's uniform. The trousers were the same color as the coat.

Below left: The enlisted man's service dress coat. On the right chest is the "ruptured duck" indicating military service rendered. On the wearer's left chest is an air gunner wing and an expert air gunner qualification badge. The rank chevrons are Staff Sergeants. Below right: Left, front view of enlisted service dress coat with AAF. shoulder patch, Staff Sergeant's rank chevron and air crew wing. Below center: Right, front view of enlisted service dress coat. The blue triangular sleeve patch is an Air Force Specialists insignia for armature.

The 586th Bomb Squadron, 394th Bomb Group on parade. The color guard wears web belts and gloves.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

John R. "Dick" Klopolsky was a B-17 crewman in the 91st Bomb Group. He is seen here in his service dress uniform. Note his aircrew wing badge and the interesting border visible around his A.A.F. patch. Klopolsky was killed in action over Schweinfurt, Germany on August 17, 1943, when his plane was shot down by an Me 109.

21

. An air gunner of the 422nd Night Fighter Squadron in service dress uniform. (Stegner Via Campbell)

22

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Above: This service dress coat is a very interesting piece. This style of coat is illustrated in the 1942 edition of "The Officer'S Guide" as the Army Air Force officer's service dress uniform coat. This garment is made of officer's quality wool fabric. Note that it features a waist belt which is sewn all the way around and has no brass buckle. It also features four visible buttons on the front closure. The regular Army officer'S service dress coat (which is the only style featured in later editions) has three . buttons visible at the front closure. The fourth button is covered by the brass waist belt buckle. This coat has a Philadelphia Quarter Master Depot label and is dated October 13, 1941. Obviously, this particular coat was worn by a 1st Air Force Staff Sergeant. It is possible that when the decision was made that AAF. officers would wear the same service dress coat as the rest of the Army, existing inventories of these coats were issued to enlisted men. These coats were also sometimes used by Aviation Cadets. Above center: Rear view of early style AAF. officer's service dress coat worn by a 1st Air Force Staff Sergeant. Above right: Three quarter front view of early AAF. officer's style service dress coat with Staff Sergeant's rank insignia on the sleeve. The diagonal service stripe represents three years of service. The 1st Air Force shoulder patch is embroidered on felt.

Low Quarters The shoes worn with the service dress uniform were Army russet leather low quarters.

U.S. Army russet leather low quarters.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

23

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The "Ike" Jacket The name "Ike jacket" refers to almost any waist length uniform jacket worn by the U.S. Army in World War II. General Dwight D. Eisenhower popularized this style of jacket, thus the name "Ike." These jackets were likely inspired by the short battle dress jackets worn by the British. American derivatives of this garment existed in numerous designs as the first were tailor made or cut down from four pocket service dress coats. Buttons were plastic, brass, bone, fabric covered or hidden. The author has even seen examples with zippers. Ike jackets provided an opportunity for American soldiers to display individuality in an acceptable military fashion, which is probably a major reason they were very popular with flyers. Also, Ike jackets were comfortable in an airplane because there were no coat tails to get in the way. There were several official waist length jackets, but the "unofficial" variations were seen much more frequently. Left: The jacket that likely inspired the U.S. Army Ike jacket was this British Army battle dress jacket issued to some U.S. units early in the war. (Conway)

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Above: Glider pilot Robert Price of the 96th Troop Carrier Squadron wearing a British Army battle dress jacket. (Price via Conway)

Left: This group of A.A.F. officers displays an interesting combination of uniforms. The first officer on the left wears a tailor made "Ike" jacket typical of English design. The second officer wears a "cut down" style, while the remaining three men wear winter service dress uniforms; two of the officers wear "pink" trousers and one wears olive drab.

24

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Lt. Joe D. Maguire of the 27th Air Transport Group

wearing a cut down Ike jacket with pink trousers and "crusher" cap. This photo was taken at Grove Air Field in England 1944.

Lt. Joe Maguire in cut down Ike jacket with olive drab trousers and overseas cap, Grove, England

Lt. Bob Bailey of the 27th Air Transport Group in a cut down Ike jacket.

1944.

An unidentified U. S.A.A.F. Brig. General in a well worn, tailor made Ike jacket. The rank insignia and command pilot wings are bullion. (Stegner via Campbell)

This P-38 pilot of the 367th Fighter Group is wearing a cut down Ike jacket. (U. S.A.F. via Campbell)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

A glider pilot of the 9th Troop Carrier Commanq wearing an Ike jacket cut down from a service dress coat. Interestingly he wears the shoulder rank of aflight officer with an officer's cap device. (Bowen)

A well tailored enlisted Ike jacket, cut down from awinter service dress coat. Note that pleated pockets have even been added. The combat crew patch is visible behind the air gunner wing.

25

Glider pilot F. Paul Bowen with a beautiful companion! Bowen is wearing a tailor made Ike jacket. (Bowen)

26

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Above left: This sergeant's Ike is a tailor made example dated 10/24/44. The cut is very similar to many English made officer's jackets with the exception of plain pockets instead of pleated. Above center: Rear view, tailor made sergeant's Ike jacket. Above right: Three quarter front view of tailor made sergeant's Ike jacket.

Close-up of beautifully detailed bullion A.A.F. patch and chevrons on tailor made sergeant's Ike jacket

Ike jackets were popular with both officers and enlisted men. This pilot and air crew member of the 394th Bomb Group are both wearing Ike jackets cut down from service dress coats as dress uniforms at a social function.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

27

Two above: An 8th Air Force officer's Ike jacket cut down from a winter service dress coat. This jacket has concealed front buttons, while the pocket and epaulet buttons are fabric covered. An unusual feature of this jacket is the yolk visible at the waist on the back side.

English tailor's label inside pocket of this Ike jacket. Red linings were very popular in certain units and in some cases had special significance such as "ace" status.

This English tailor made Ike style was popular with A.A.F. officers in the E. T.O.

28

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Above: The U.S.A.A.F. was present all over the globe, as evidenced by this Ike jacket, tailor made in Costa Rica. Above right: Three quarter front view of Costa Rican made Ike jacket with 6th Air Force patch visible. Below: Costa Rican tailor's label of Ramirez Valida. (Davidson)

Right: Theater made Ike jacket attributed to Lt. John W Phelan (MIA December 29,1944). Phelan flew a tour on B-17s with the 8th Air Force and went down in a P-47 over Italy. The jacket is not typical of English made examples. The notch lapel, and the fact that it is not lined indicates it was likely made for the warmer climate in Italy.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

29

Above left: This beautiful English made Ike jacket belonged to a man who likely served on staff at 8th Air Force Headquarters at High Wycombe, and rotated back to the States in an advisory/training capacity with the 4th Air Force. The left shoulder (active duty shoulder) bears the 4th Air Force insignia, while the right, or "combat", shoulder carries the insignia of "The Mighty Eighth." It was somewhat commonly accepted that soldiers would wear the patch of the unit in which they were currently serving on the left shoulder, while on the right, the insignia of the unit in which they had seen combat was worn. Some jealous stateside non-combat experienced commanders did not allow this practice, which ultimately was detrimental to the morale of the troops. Combat veterans often refer to these e.O.'s in terms less than endearing. Above center: Left front view of English made Ike jacket with 4th Air Force patch visible. Also note the two hash marks on the sleeve signifying one year overseas. Above right: Right front view of English made "Ike" with 8th Air Force patch visible on the shoulder. Left: Tailor's label in English made Ike jacket. Note it was made in High Wycombe, which was 8th Air Force Headquarters.

Left: This E.TO. style Ike jacket with slash pockets was tailor made on Saville Row in London. (Markel)

Right: This beautiful tan wool gabardine Ike jacket was tailor made with matching trousers. Tan and pink Ike jackets are somewhat unusual, but they were worn - especially overseas.

30

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Officer's Ike jackets came in every description. Perhaps one of the most outlandish was the jacket mentioned in 4th Fighter Group ace, John Godfrey's book "The Look of Eagles." Godfrey purchased a pink Ike jacket with a red lining from a bomber pilot who had it tailor made in London. When he reported stateside to the Major in charge, while wearing the jacket, the Major made it clear he was on an Army Post - not a "home for overdressed playboys of the Air Force."

One of the first official Ike style jackets used by the U.S. Army in World War II was the wool field jacket, E.T.O.. These jackets were made primarily by the British (although Australian made examples have surfaced), under contract for the United States Army. It also appears that there were at least two distinct styles; one with patch and flap chest pockets and one with slash or side entry pockets.

These airmen to the right and left are wearing examples of two styles of E. T.O. wool field jackets. The jacket on the left has slash pockets and the jacket to the . right has patch and flap pockets. (Stegner via Campbell)

A B-26 Marauder crew man wearing the wool field jacket, E.TO., with slash pockets.

This B-17 air crew member wears the E. T.O. jacket. (Campbell)

The crew man behind the jeep, with hands in pockets, is wearing the E. TO. jacket.

,.

,. This 422nd N.ES. Master Sgt. is wearing a wool field jacket, E. TO. (Stegner via Campbell)

Two distinct styles of the British made E. TO. jacket are clearly illustrated in this photo of 9th Air Force P-61 ground crew men. (Stegner via Campbell)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

The British made E. T.O. wool field jacket with slash pockets. (Conway)

31

Above: This E. T.O. jacket is made of officer's quality barathea wool. Right: Detail of officer's E. T.O. jacket with slash pocket clearly visible. (Conway)

The most widely recognized official version of the Ike jacket is the M1944 wool field jacket. This garment was designed to be worn under the M1943 field jacket and was very popular with enlisted men as a replacement for the service coat. The M1944 was also worn by officers, often without insignia, as a utility garment.

This group of 9th Air Force ground personnel (with the exception of the officer, third from left, front row) are all wearing the M1944 wool field jacket. (Stegner via Campbell)

Right: This air crewman of the 9th Air Force is wearing the M1944 wool field jacket without collar discs, as a dress uniform jacket. (Stegner via Campbell)

32

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

The M1944 wool field jacket. This example was worn by B-26 pilot, Wendell Hoppers. Hoppers finished the war flying C-47s with the 321st Air Transport Squadron in Europe.

The officer on the right, of the 422nd N.F.S., is wearing the M1944 wool field jacket without insignia. (Stegner via Campbell)

This 9th Air Force air crewman wears collar discs on his M1944 wool field jacket. (Stegner via Campbell)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

33

The B-13 and B-14 jackets, technically, were flight jackets, although both were worn functionally as Ike jackets. The B-13 was made of officer's quality wool and the B-14 was the same jacket in enlisted grade wool. These jackets were standardized in March of 1944.

Front and back of officer's quality B-13 flight jacket.

Three of these 27th Air Transport Group pilots are wearing cut down Ike jackets. The officer second from left is wearing the B-13. (Jenks)

Deta il of B-13 jacket label.

34

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Above: The B-14 enlisted flight jacket. Right: Pocket details on the B-14. (Conway)

An interesting variation based on the Ike jacket idea is this "Ike shirt." Lt. Robert Bellman of the 75th Fighter Squadron is wearing a cotton officer's shirt, which has been cut offat the waist and had a band added at the bottom - a very practical garment for wear in the C.B.I.! Bellman was killed in a P-51 landing accident. (Bollen via Campbell)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

35

U.S. Army Shirts The officer's service shirt was authorized in olive drab shade No. 51 (dark shade); drab shade No. 54 (light shade); khaki shade No.1; olive drab shade No. 50 ; and the cotton fabrics were khaki shade No.1. The shirts were made of wool or cotton in various weaves.

The officer's service shirt in wool olive drab shade No. 51 (dark shade).

Commanding officers could authorize the wearing of the service shirt without the coat. When worn without the coat, insignia of grade, and collar insignia were worn.

The officer's service shirt in wool drab shade No. 54 (light shade).

Tailor's label in a U.S.A.A.F. officer's shirt made in Brisbane, Australia. (Edwards)

The officer's service shirt in wool khaki shade No.1.

This tailor made example features reinforced elbow patches.

36

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Major General (then Major) John L. Locke as a P-47 pilot with the 512th Fighter Squadron, wearing the officer's shirt and tie with insignia in place. (Locke via Perry)

Above: Three AAF. officers wearing khaki shirts and trousers. Note the navigator at left wears a three inch wing, while the pilot and bombardier wear the two inch shirt wings. (Campbell)

This AAF. pilot is wearing the officer's shirt and tie in cotton khaki with full insignia. (Edwards)

These two 9th Air Force First Sergeants wear the enlisted service shirt with sleeve insignia and ribbons. (Stegner via Campbell)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

37

The "Bush Jacket" The bush jacket is best described as a combination shirt and service dress coat. It was service coat length, but no shirt was worn underneath and it featured a shirt type collar. Most examples were belted.

Although not an official garment, bush jackets were widely worn in the C.B.I. and Pacific theaters. Most examples are cotton khaki. This jacket was undoubtedly inspired by the British.

Back and front of a typical example ofa U.S.A.A.F. bush jacket. Above right: Detail of hand embroidered rank insignia and shoulder pocket made from a C.B.l. patch on U.S.A.A.F. bush jacket. (Edwards)

Air Marshal Sir Guy Garrod, RAF. (left) talking with Brigadier General J.E. Upston of the 20th Air Force (right) in December of 1944. Garrod is wearing the British khaki drill bush jacket, which was likely the inspiration for the U.S.A.A.F. version worn by Upston and the other U.S.A.A.F. officer in the background. (Linke)

Brigadier General I.E. Upston of the 20th Air Force wearing his bush jacket. (Linke)

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Above left: Captain ED. Campbell, U.S.A.A.E, Early Air Warning, wearing a bush jacket in Calcutta, India. Above right: Administrative officers of Early Air Warning in Calcutta. The officer first from right and Captain Campbell, third from right, are wearing bush jackets. (Campbell)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA Officer's Uniform Insignia: U.S. Army officers rank insignia of World War II Rank insignia of this period, like other items. was produced by a large number of manufacturers from around the world. This resulted in a lot of varr.ation in style and materials.

* * * * * GENERAL

MAJOR GENERAL

LIEUT GENERAL

BRIG. GENERAL

COLONEl.

W'UT. COLONEL

rs=

MAJOR

'!I!

LlI

CAPTAIN

2ND LIEUTENANT

1ST LIEUTENANT

(:=J CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER

ell

0:01' WARRANT OFFlCER (JUNIOR GRADEl

-

FLIGHT OFFICEIl

This group showing the front (left) and back of 1st and 2nd Lieutenants bars illustrates some of the variations of the period.

39

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

These two Major's leaves illustrate two distinct designs.

Metal and enamel flight officers rank insignia front and back.

Uncut cloth flight officers rank insignia for use on cotton khaki shirt or coat.

Uncut bullion on olive drab wool, Second Lieutenant's bars.

This set of Captain's bars was handmade in India. Note the English style pin.

Sterling, pin back Captain's bars by Gemsco, in the original box.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

41

Officer's collar flapel insignia also varied in design and material. The familiar winged propeller insignia surfaced in many different forms.

Rank insignia was made in leather for use on flight jackets. This is an example of a set of leather Captain's bars. (Edwards)

A leather Major's leaffor use on aflight jacket.

Bullion lapel insignia on an 8th Air Force bombardier's service dress coat.

Two different designs of metal A.A.F. officer's collar/lapel insignia, front and rear.

A beautifully detailed set of bullion A.A.F. officer's lapel insignia made in the C.B.!. theater. These were attributed to 491st Bomb Squadron, B-25 pilot, William Neilson.

42

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Hash Marks Hash marks were worn on the left cuff of the service uniform. Each bar represented six months of service overseas.

Detail of three hash marks on a service dress coat.

A 9th Air Force troop carrier pilot poses with his new bride. Clearly visible on his left sleeve are three hash marks.

Bullion hash marks on an officer's service dress coat. The inverted chevrons are for World War I service. (Edwards)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

43

Enlisted Uniform Insignia Enlisted rank was indicated by chevrons worn on the upper sleeve. The chevrons were olive drab on black for winter wear and brown on khaki for summer. Rank was indicated as follows:

First Sergeant - three chevrons, points up, over three rockers with a diamond in the center Master Sergeant - three chevrons, points up, over three rockers.

Private First Class - one chevron, points up Corporal- two chevrons, points up Sergeant - three chevrons, points up Staff Sergeant - three chevrons, points up, over one rocker Tech. Sergeant 2nd Grade - three chevrons, points up, over two rockers

In the early stages of the war enlisted technical grades were authorized to allow technical specialists to be promoted with additional paX' without becoming NCOs. These grades were indicated by a 'T' beneath the chevrons.

Above: World War II corporal's chevron. Left: This World War II corporal's insignia has the "T" under the chevrons for technical specialists.

A World War II Staff Sergeant chevrons embroidered on wool.

A World War II Staff Sergeant chevrons of multi-piece wool construction.

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Distinctive Sleeve Patches for Specialists Triangular sleeve patches were authorized in the categories of armament, communications, engineering, photography and weather for enlisted technical specialists.

Enlisted Technical Specialist, Armament sleeve patch.

Enlisted Technical Specialist, Communications sleeve patch.

Enlisted Technical Specialist, Engineering sleeve patch.

Enlisted Technical Specialist, Photography sleeve patch.

Enlisted Technical Specialist, Weather sleeve patch.

This photograph of the right sleeve of an enlisted service dress coat illustrates placement of the rank chevron and enlisted technical specialist patch. Chevrons were worn on both sleeves. The technical specialist patch was worn only on the right.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

45

This Army Air Force Sergeant is wearing a khaki shirt with rank chevrons, Army Air Force shoulder patch, air crew wing and the enlisted technical specialist, communications patch.

458th Bomb Group Photography Technical Specialist Herman Hetzel in service dress uniform. His enlisted technical specialist patch is visible on his right sleeve. Also of interest is the English made 8th Air Force patch on his left shoulder. (Campbell)

Enlisted Collar/Lapel Brass Enlisted men wore the Army Air Force disc on the left lapel with the "U.S." disc on the right. As with officers insignia, enlisted designs varied.

Below left: A somewhat crude example of an enlisted AAF. collar/lapel insignia. The ,winged prop is pot metal, painted gold and affixed to a brass disc. Below right: A nice quality, two piece brass enlisted AAF. collar/lapel insignia.

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Distinctive Insignia A discussion of A.A.F. uniform insignia would not be complete without some mention of distinctive insignia or "D.L's." More than 300 Army Air Corp and Army Air Force distinctive insignia were used over a period of years, mostly crafted from a combination of metal and enamel. They usually depicted a squadron insignia or a groups

coat of arms. Distinctive insignia were worn by officers on the shoulder loop (epaulet) of the service dress coat and by enlisted men on the lower portion of the lapel. After the outbreak of World War II distinctive insignia were seldom worn in theaters of operation, but were still in use to some degree State side.

Distinctive insignia of the First Troop Carrier Command.

This Private in service dress uniform is wearing distinctive insignia on his lapels. (Campbell)

Distinctive insignia of Headquarters, Army Air Forces. (Linke)

Distinctive insignia of the Air Service Command. (Linke)

Distinctive insignia of the 86th Bomb Group (redesignated 86th Fighter Group in 1944).

Distinctive insignia of the Air Transport Command. (Linke)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

47

Outer wear - Jackets and Coats

The M1941 field jacket was very popular with officers and enlisted men alike. It was used extensively throughout World War II. The outer shell was tightly woven cotton cloth, which was water and wind resistant, and the lining was wool shirt weight flannel. (Markel)

Lt. Joe D. Maguire, C-47 pilot with the 321st Air Transport Squadron, is wearing the M1941 field jacket.

The M1943 field jacket replaced the M1941 field jacket. This jacket was extremely versatile and was issued in quantity in late 1944. (Markel)

M1941 field jacket being worn by an A.A.F. Master Sergeant. (Stegner via Campbell)

Glider pilot James w. Campbell of the 79th Troop Carrier Squadron, 9th Air Force, is wearing the M1943 field jacket. (Conway)

48

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

The Mackinaw was developed as a general purpose field utility coat for use by enlisted men. It was used in the Army Air Force primarily by mechanics and other ground personnel. (Markel)

This group of enlisted ground personnel wear a variety of outer wear garments. The first, fourth, and seventh man from the right are wearing Mackinaws. The man second from right wears the one piece, herringbone twill work suit issued to mechanics, and the remaining two men are wearing enlisted wool overcoats.

Right: An aviation cadet at Parks Air College in 1943 wearing the M1926 officer's short overcoat. Far right: Aviation cadet Joe Maguire, taken in St. Louis, 1943, wearing the M1926 officer's short overcoat.

The M1926 officer's short overcoat. (Markel)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

This style of officer's short overcoat replaced the M1926 in the 1944 "Officers Guide." It was easier to wear with the omission of the button belt on the M1926.

Lt. Joe Maguire, November 1944, in Paris wearing

the officer's short overcoat.

49

C-47 pilot Charles B. Longshore, of the 321st Air Transport Squadron, wearing the officer's short overcoat. This photo was taken near LeBourget Air Field, winter of 1944-45.

Front and back of the officer's "trench" coat or long overcoat, which appears in the 1944 "Officers Guide." This garment was usually tan gabardine wool. There was considerable variation in these coats, as they were privately purchased. This example was worn by B-26 and C-47 pilot Wendell Hoppers.

50

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Front and back of the officer's rain coat was the same style as the overcoat, but made of lightweight, water resistant cloth. The label reads made of "Skinner's Jackie Twill", cotton and rayon. This example was also worn by Lt. Wendell Hoppers.

Lt. Rnlph Jenks, ferry pilot with the 27th Air Transport Group, in front of a P51D Mustang wearing the officer's trench coat. (Jenks)

Jeanan and Lt. Joe Maguire, prior to going overseas, in Oklahoma City, 1944. Joe is wearing the officer'S trench coat.

This group of pilots of the 321st Air Transport Squadron wear a variety of officer's outerwear and uniform coats. Note the color variations in the short overcoats, visible even in black and white. The pistol belt worn by the officer in the center (wearing Ike jacket) denotes he was Officer of the Day.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

51

Uniform Caps The service cap was the item of clothing which gave unique identity to the Army Air Forces. Because of the requirements of flying, Army Air Force personnel could, by regulation, remove the spring stiffener and grommet. This ultimately created the "50 Mission Crusher" so fondly remembered by A.A.F. veterans.

The Army officer's service cap in its original unaltered form with spring stiffener and grommet in place. Although some A.A.F. officers continued to wear this type of service cap (many of whom were West Point or regular Army types), the majority preferred the crusher. (Markel)

This photograph illustrates why the Army Air Force was allowed to remove the spring stiffener and grommet. The crusher cap was created out of necessity, but it was an extremely popular item which allowed great expression of individuality. (Jenks)

Some companies began producing service caps especially for the Army Air Forces which had soft leather visors. These caps were very popular because they were easier to crush. They had names like >'Flighter by Bancroft" and "The Flight Weight."

Above left: This cap was made by Luxenberg. Luxenberg made very high quality uniforms and insignia. Above right: The "Luxenberg" script trademark. This same style script is found on wings and insignia made by this firm.

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

52

Alf· S;'\.LT Li\Kl U1'At

'1

Above left: A beautiful example of an AAF. officer's cap marked Army Air Base, Salt Lake City, Utah, 3. Above.right: Marking inside AAF. officer's cap.

Above: "Society Brand" is the maker of this service cap worn by an 8th Air Force bombardier. (Henderson) . Above right: "Lewis" AAF. officer's service cap. (Moran)

Right: U.S.A.AF. officer's service cap. (Moran)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

Above left: Without question, one of the most classic AAF. officer's service caps was the Bancroft F1ighter pictured here. Above right: Trademark "F1ighter by Bancroft" inside service cap. .

This officer's cap named to Lt. John W. Phelan was made in London by ].5. Wilson, Ltd. Phelan flew a tour in B-17s with the "Mighty Eighth", and was later listed as MIA while flying a P-47 in Italy.

Name, serial number, and English stamp found under the band of Phelan's cap.

Label inside Lt. Phelan's cap.

53

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

An A.A.F. officer wearing a nice example of a crusher cap. (Campbell Archives)

This ground officer of the 422nd N.F.S. wears the officer's service cap. Note the eagle device is cocked to one side! (Stegner via Campbell)

This navigator, working on a mission plan, wears an interesting example of a service cap. This cap appears to have a stiff visor.

A B-24 co-pilot in the cockpit wearing his service cap. (Carmichael)

Lt. Joe D. Maguire, C-47 pilot of the 321st Air

This Army Air Force Lt. wears a "classic" crusher cap. It appears to be a "Flighter by Bancroft."

Transport Squadron, wearing his service cap and B1D jacket. He bought this hat while an Aviation Cadet at College Station, Texas and wore it throughout the war. This photo was taken Christmas, 1944 in Paris.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

55

The service cap was also made in khaki wool or cotton for summer wear.

"Flighter by Bancroft" in khaki worsted wool for summer wear.

This "Flighter by Bancroft" has a coarser textured band than the previous example. It also has a backstrap. (Edwards)

Above left: This khaki wool crusher is marked "The Flight Weight. " Above Right: Marking inside khaki wool service cap "The Flight Weight."

Officers of the 20th Air Force wearing summer uniform. Three men wear khaki crusher service caps. Note the man second from right wears a khaki example with an olive drab band.

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

56

Right: This A.A.F. service cap was made in England. (Edwards)

Below: The Australian firm of "Jones Brothers Dty. Limited, Surry Hills, Sydney" manufactured u.S. Army officers caps. This photo shows their makers mark inside of a hat. These hats had interchangeable tops for summer and winter wear. Below right: Australian made olive drab, U.S. Army officer's hat by "Jones Brothers Dty. Limited" in Sydney.

AUTHORISED

U.S. ARMY OFFICER'S CAP "?stade f,y

loncs Brothers Ply. CimUkd SURRY HILLS. SYDNEY

This hat is actually a British Army officer's hat "adopted" by a U.S. Army Air Force officer. The eagle was made by J.R. Gaunt, London and the buttons are British marked.

The Jones Brother's hat with khaki summer top in place. (Edwards)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

57

Officers service cap eagle devices were made in numerous patterns by many manufacturers which resulted in a large number of variations. Five versions are illustrated here.

This is a very common cap eagle pattern and is very close to the eagle worn by Army officers of today. This eagle was worn by B-25 pilot Wm. Neilson.

This oversize, straight winged eagle was very popular with A.A.F. officers.

A delicate version of the cap eagle.

Bullion cap eagles were not very common, but were worn. This bullion eagle is quite stunning! (Edwards) Above left: This finely detailed example was made by Luxenberg in England. Left: Reverse with maker mark visible.

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Flight Officers wore an officer's service cap with a different cap eagle.

Detail of the flight officer's cap eagle. (Linke)

Glider pilot Paul Bowen wearing the Flight Officer's cap eagle. (Bowen)

Above right: A beautiful example of an enlisted man's service cap with spring stiffener and grommet in place. (Markel) Center right: Enlisted "crushers" were also produced. This olive drab example was worn by a Sergeant, liaison pilot of the 158th Liaison Squadron. Right: This khaki worsted wool enlisted crusher was worn by the same liaison pilot of the 158th Squadron as the olive drab example.

The enlisted service cap is the same basic style as the officer's cap. The main difference is that the band on the enlisted cap is of the same fabric as the top portion. The enlisted cap device is of the same design as the officer's, only smaller and backed by a brass disc.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

This Army Air Force enlisted man is wearing what is likely, at that time, a brand new example of the enlisted service cap. (Hopkins)

A very crisp example of the enlisted service cap is worn by Corporal Arthur Lazenby Brown.

59

The service cap worn by this enlisted air crew member shows a little wear.

This enlisted airman in silk scarfand B-3 jacket wears an enlisted crusher. The cut-out device is either a theater made example or possibly a transitional U.S.A.F. device, which would date the photo around 1947. By that time the B-3 jacket was pretty much replaced by the B-15, so I tend to believe it is a World War II era theater made variation cap device. (Campbell Archives)

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The Garrison cap (formerly called the field or "overseas" cap) was authorized for wear by all personnel in summer and winter fabrics. The officer's version was piped with gold and black braid, while the enlisted was piped with the A.A.F. service colors of ultra-marine and orange.

This example of the officer's Garrison cap is English made.

Captain Lee wearing the winter officer's Garrison cap. (Campbell Archives)

Officer's olive drab wool Garrison cap worn by C-47 pilot, Joe Maguire, 321st Air Transport Squadron.

Sgt. Herman Hetzel in service dress uniform with enlisted Garrison cap. (Campbell Archives)

"Pink" was not an authorized color for the Garrison cap, but they were worn on occasion.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

The enlisted Garrison cap in olive drab wool for winter wear.

Summer cotton khaki enlisted man's Garrison cap.

Helmet, fiber, cloth-covered were authorized for wear by personnel in stations where "tropical conditions prevail." (Davidson)

World War I American "Ace of Aces" Eddie Rickenbacker wearing the tropical helmet while visiting his old unit, the 94th Fighter Squadron, during World War II. (Campbell Archives) Right: This flight surgeon, dressed for hot weather, is wearing the tropical helmet with an officer's cap eagle in place. (Campbell Archives)

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Aviation Cadet Uniforms Aviation cadet uniforms are a subject in themselves, but some mention must be made to round out a discussion of World War II Army Air Force uniforms. The aviation cadet program was the training vehicle for all Army Air Force air crew officers, including pilots, bombardiers and navigators. The training, prior to flying training, developed leadership, initiative, discipline and high physical, moral, and mental standards. Training was divided into three departments at the San Antonio Aviation Cadet Center known as "The Hill." The three departments were Military, Academic and Physical. Much of the cadet training during World War II was carried out at universities through a number of C.T.D.'s or College Training Detachments. Early on, Flying Cadets were authorized to wear slate blue uniforms. During this period, cadets assigned special duty wore chevrons similar to those worn at West Point. These chevrons were black on slate blue. Later cadets were designated" Aviation Cadets." At that time they began wearing a uniform very similar to the officers service dress, without the waist belt or sleeve bands. Lapel insignia was the same as for officers. When wearing the shirt, cadets wore

the "U.S." device on the right collar point and the winged propeller on the left. As the program expanded, aviation cadets began wearing the enlisted grade service dress coat with officer's lapel insignia. The early style AAF Officer's Service Dress Coat with sewn down belt, no buckle, and four button front was also worn by cadets. Photographs testify to the fact that there was variation, even within the same class, as to the style of service dress coat worn. Aviation Cadets wore a winged propeller patch on the upper left shoulder, or the lower right sleeve of the service dress coat and shirt. The position of the patch seems to vary from one location to another. These patches are found with black backgrounds and with blue backgrounds. The cadet service cap was the same design as the officer's except the band was dark blue, and the device was the Winged propeller. In the early stages of training, Aviation Cadets were required to wear the grommet in their service caps. In the later phases of flight training they were, in some cases, allowed to wear the cadet device on a crusher hat.

A group ofAviation Cadets in various uniforms, off duty in San Antonio, Texas.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

This Aviation Cadet pactli is decoratively sewn to the sleeve of a tan shirt.

The Aviation Cadet shoulder/sleeve patch on blue.

The Aviation Cadet shoulder/sleeve patch on black.

Left: The Aviation Cadet uniform as worn at Parks Air College, 1943, by Joe Maguire.

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Air Corps Cadet sleeve insignia, AC Training Center, Randolph Field, Texas: (J. W. Cook)

The Aviation Cadet service cap with dark blue band and grommet in place.

Aviation Cadet Johnny Long at Parks Air College. The winged propeller patch is visible on his lower right sleeve.

Detail of the Aviation Cadet cap device.

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

65

Aviaiion cadet Joe Maguire in a newly issued, somewhat ill-fitting, aviation cadet uniform and cap.

For this photo, Cadet Maguire pulled the grommet out of his AAF. officer's service cap, which he purchased before graduating, and put his cadet device on it. This hat, of course, did not have the regulation blue band. He went on to wear this hat throughout World War II, as a pilot.

An early example of aflying cadet's Garrison cap with AAF. piping in slate blue cotton.

A slate blue cotton flying cadet's Garrison cap with no piping.

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

66

An aviation cadet's name badge as worn at some locations.

*

Individuals in flight training who were already Army officers wore this 1.0. badge with agreen, instead of blue background. (J. W. Cook)

A I R

U

S

C

a

*

R p S

CADET

Above: Aviation Cadet 1.0. badge, AAF Western Flying Training Center. (J.w. Cook) Above right: AAF Pre-(aviation) Cadet squadron patch, San Antonio Aviation Cadet Center, TX. Note the lieutenant's bar and wing at the end of the yellow brick road. (J. W. Cook)

This Cadet at Oklahoma Air College, Cimarron Field, is wearing the slate blue uniform. Note the "Flying Cadet" patch on his shoulder. "Flying Cadet" was the forerun ner to the Aviation Cadet designation. (Linke)

UNIFORMS & INSIGNIA

Instructor pilot jacket patch, Hangar Six, Inc., Garner Field, Uvalde, TX, 305th AAF Flying Training Detachment. (J. W. Cook)

67

Instructor pilot jacket patch, Cal-Aero Flight Academy, Ontario, California. (J. W. Cook)

Instructor pilot wing, Hangar Six, Inc., Garner Field, Uvalde, TX, 30Sth AAF Flying Training Detachment. (J.w. Cook)

Instructor pilot cap badge, Cal-Aero Academy, Ontario, California. (J.W. Cook)

Shoulder insignia from Cimarron Field, outside of Oklahoma City, OK.

CHAPTER II

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

I

n some respects, wing badges represent the heart of Army Air Force memorabilia. Wings were symbolic of a specific job perform.ed by an American airman and without the aircraft and air crews there was no need for the existence of the Army Air Force. The key individual on any air crew was the pilot. He was the aircraft commander and had final say, whether a single seat fighter or a bomber with a ten man crew. On a bomber crew each man performed a specific function critical to the success of the mission and each wore a distinctive wing symbolic of that function. Pilots, bombardiers, navigators, airgunners, and other air crew members relied on each other and worked as a team. Each wing represented a highly trained professional position and symbolized many hours of work and individual sacrifice. All wing badges worn by A.A.F. flyers were held in very high regard.

Jeanan Maguire shows off the graduation wing given to her by husband Joe. Above: Balfour clutch back gold flight surgeon wing, in original box. The wing is 1/20th ten karat, rolled gold plate. Below: End of Balfour gold flight surgeon box plainly marked "clutch back."

OPPOSITE: The gold flight surgeon's wing is clearly visible on this doctor's uniform. The ribbons are for the World War I Victory Medal, and the American Defense Service Medal.

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

A.E. Co. had several distinctive back marks as seen on the four examples below.

Here is a simple "A.E. Co. Utica NY" in raised letters with "sterling" stamped in at a ninety degree angle.

Here the mark appears in an inverted triangle.

This air gunner's wing provides a third raised example.

A larger version of the A.E. Co. logo appears on this command pilot.

In times of war, private industries gear up to support the effort and make a profit! The military insignia and jewelry industries were no exception. Wing badges were produced by traditional insignia makers, such as N.S. Meyer. Additionally, jewelers, such as B.B.& B., Josten, and L.G. Balfour, jumped on the bandwagon and made high quality wings and insignia. There is virtually no end to the variations in patterns of U.S.A.A.F. wings manufactured and worn during World War II. Not only were American companies involved, but Mexican, British, and Australian made badges were relatively common. Hundreds of tailor shops and retail stores sold cloth and bullion wings and to further complicate matters, local craftsmen in various theaters of operation produced wings. With all of these origins and varieties, it is evident why World War II A.A.F. wing badges are highly collectible and sought after. It is also easy to see how a significant amount of conflicting, and inaccurate, information could have circulated after fifty years or so. One piece of information which is purported by some, yet totally untrue, is that World War II wing badges are all "pin back" and "clutch back" wings are post war. To dispelthis rumor I will use a very personal example - my father, Captain Joe D. Maguire. Dad graduated Class of 44D (April, 1944) at Frederick Army Air Field. His graduation wing was a finely feathered, sterling, pin back pilot's wing, which he immediately gave to my mother. (See photo on page 69) He had three additional pilot's wings, which he purchased. These three wings were the design which closely followed the official drawings, sometimes called" slick wings" or "smooth wings" by veterans. One is an unmarked clutch back, another is a sterling marked clutch back, and the third is a sterling pin back, A.E. and Co. Another example of a World War II clutch back wing is the Balfour gold flight surgeon wing in the original box, pictured on page 69. The gold 'flight surgeon badge was only authorized for wear prior to September, 1944, when the color was changed to silver. Clearly, another example of a World War II period clutch back wing. One distinction which definitely excludes a wing from the World War II era is an alphanumerical hallmark, such as "K21" or "V21." This system was put in place in the 1950s by the U.S. Army Institute of Heraldry to identify official suppliers of insignia. Another point of collecting wings, which has puzzled the author, is the overly inflated value placed by many collectors on the type of metal used to make the wing. Wing's marked" sterling" tend to be significantly more expensive compared to non-sterling wings.. To use arbitrary figures, a sterling pin back pilot's wing may by worth fifty dollars, where as the same pattern wing without the sterling mark brings twenty-five to thirty dollars. Both wings have the same historical significance. They both indicated the same qualification and were worn with equal pride by the original owner. At the time of this writing, the value of the amount of silver in a wing badge is around one dollar and eighty cents. Even when silver was at its all time high, the actual silver content of a wing was only worth sixteen to eighteen dollars. The issue here is simple, if you want to collect wings, collect and value their history. If you want to invest in precious metals, buy ingots. Another aspect to consider is that most of the fakes and restrikes have been done in sterling silver (or at least marked as such). So you have at least some assurance that a non-sterling piece is of the period. A notable exception to this rule are English made U.S. wings. Most originals were not sterling, and in recent years, non-sterling reproductions have been offered for sale to unsuspecting collectors. As for methods of manufacture, the overwhelming majority of World War II era wings are die struck. Many of the earlier fakes were done using a lost wax centrifical casting method, which looks great to the naked eye, but is fairly easy to detect under a jewelers loop. Some World War II era wings were cast, bilt these are usually obvious, even to the naked eye, as the casting process was much less sophisticated at that time. Cast wings are somewhat common in C.B.!. theater made pieces and the Australian firm of Wallace Bishop manufactured some very crude cast wings, as well as some high quality die struck wings. (Examples of both can be seen in the pilot wings photo section of this chapter.) Some World War II era dies have surfaced, or are still in the hands of the orignal makers. Some of these makers have restruck World War II pattern wings, however even these are detectable from period pieces by more knowledgeable collectors.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES As for the final word on detecting fakes and restrikes, I have chosen not to go into great detail. The main reason for this is that once it is in print, the unethical fakers correct their mistakes! My advice is to meet with advanced collectors and look at as many original pieces through a 16X loop as you possibly can. Study them, feel them, and memorize them. There is no substitute for first hand experience. Ask these individuals who the dealers are that can be trusted and do not deal with the ones who can not. In their defense, any dealer can make a mistake, but will they stand behind the product? Also be careful with" experts" - no one knows it all. In one sense the fakers have destroyed their own market by making people leery of getting into the field. Collecting and studying wing badges is one of the most fascinating aspects of A.A.F. memorabilia. Do not let the unscrupulous activities and/ or lack of knowledge of a few individuais discourage you! Thousands of wings are still in the hands of veterans and families. This is still the best source, when possible, plus you get the history of the piece from the original source. Do not be surprised when an "expert" at a trade show tells you the wing your Uncle Bob gave you (which you have a photograph of him wearing on his World War II uniform) is a reproduction. "Experts" can be a dangerous thing! Numerous manufacturers produced wing badges during World War II. Here is as complete a list as possible at the time of this writing of backmarks on World War II wings. All were not manufacturers, as some were contracted pieces: A.E. Co. (American Emblem Co., Utica, NY) Amico (American Insignia Co., New York, NY) Amcraft (American Metal Crafts Co., Attleboro, MA) Angus & Coote (Sydney, Australia) B.B.&B. (Baily, Banks, & Biddle, Philadelphia, PA) Balfour or LGB (L.G. Balfour Co., Attleboro, MA) Beverly Craft (Beverly Hills, CA) Wallace Bishop (Bishop Co., Brisbane, Australia) Blackinton or VHB (Y.H. Blackinton & Co., Attleboro, MA) CP. Co. (Charles Polk Co. New York, NY) Danecraft (Danecraft, New York, NY) Denmark (Denmark's Military Equipment Corp., New York, NY) Dodge (Dodge, Inc., Chicago, IL) Dondero (A.H. Dondero Inc., Washington, D.C) LE (Eisenstadt Co., St. Louis, MO (pre-WW II)) EBY (S.E. Eby Co., Philadelphia, PA) Firmin (Firmin & Sons, London, UK) Gaunt Gaunt Co., London, UK) GI (General Insignia Co., NYC(possibly post war only)) Gemsco (General Merchandising Co., NYC) Goodwear Fabrics (location unknown) H-H (Hilborn-Hamburyer, NYC) Josten (Princeton, IL) K Co. (The Kinney Co., Providence, RI (pre-WW II)) Krew (Krew Inc., Attleboro, MA (probably post war only)) LeVelle & Co. (LeVelle & Co., Philadelphia, PA, Washington, D.C) Ludlow (Ludlow Co., London, UK) K.G. Luke (K.G. Luke, Melbourne, Australia) Luxenberg (Luxenberg Uniform Co., NYC, London) N.5. Meyer (N.S. Meyer Inc., NYC) Moody Bros. (Moody Brothers, Los Angeles, CA) Officers (Officer's Equipment Co., Madison, NJ) Orber (Orber Mfg. Co., Providence, RI) Pasquale S.F. (Pasquale Uniform Co., San Francisco, CA) Polar Flight (location unknown) Robbins (Robbins Co., Attleboro, MA) Tiffany (Tiffany & Co., NYC) Vanguard (Vanguard Military Equipment Corp., Long Island, NY) WA-NY (Wolf-Appleton Co., NYC)

71

The Amcraft hallmark appears in the same basic style on both of the following wings (below).

Amcraft logo on a smooth back.

The pattern struck into the back of this wing is known as "snow flake. " It is generally thought to be used on wings and insignia prior to World War II.

Two distinctive Amico hallmark examples are seen, both on pin back wings (below).

a.R.

I have tried to provide you with a nice cross-section of photographs ofbackmarks to give the reader a good idea what they look like.

In this example, just the name "Amico" is in an arch above "sterling. "

This more elaborate Amico mark is surmounted by an eagle design.

72

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS Below are three different examples of Balfour hallmarks. It should be noted that reproductions are known to exist with larger engraved back marks. Also note the separately applied devices in the center of these wings and the high quality finished rivets holding them in place.

This photo shows the much sought after Australian maker mark of "Angus & Coote Stg. Silo "

"LGB Sterling" is one Balfour mark.

"Sterling by Blackinton" is a very desirable mark to find on a wing badge!

This gold flight surgeon wing is marked on the applied device, "Balfour 1/20 10KGF, " indicating gold filled. This is the cast version of the "Wallace Bishop Brisbane" hallmark. It is interesting to note that the hallmark is struck into a separate piece of metal and applied to the cast wing.

"Wallace Bishop Silver Brisbane" is the mark found on this higher quality wing made by the Australian firm.

The final Balfour example simply spells out the company name and "Sterling."

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

73

Another Luxenberg example. "Dodge Inc. Chicago" - a seldom encountered mark.

"Gemsco-NY" The familiar shield of "N.S. Meyer New York."

"Josten Sterling" is a mark of quality on a World War II wing. Most Josten wings were clutch back.

Luxenberg is felt by many to be the" Cadillac" of American made wings.

The circular mark of "Orber Mfg. Co." is visible on this bombardier's wing.

This first pattern Luxenberg exhibits the large beautiful company logo "Luxenberg Sterling New York."

The Orber dies were purchased by another company and the name was obliterated. This is visible on this pilot's wing.

74

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

The seldom encountered mark of Charles Polk Co. "c.P. Co. NYC" is very clear on this flight engineer's wing.

Wing badges were produced in three basic sizes; the three inch wing for wear on the uniform coat, the two inch for shirt wear, and the one inch and smaller for cap and for "sweethearts." The three-inch and two inch appear to be the only official sizes.

This photo illustrates the three most common sizes of World War II wings.

All three bombardier wings were worn by RC. Slusher, who served on B-24's with the 445th Bomb Group, 8th Air Force. The top wing is the three inch coat wing, the second is the two inch shirt size, and the bottom was worn on his overseas hat in training. (Slusher)

Right: Robert C. Slusher in training as a bombardier. The wing visible on his overseas hat is the same one featured in the above photo. (Slusher)

"Robbins Co Attleboro" is clear on this pin back pilot's wing.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

75

NAVIGATOR

MINIATURE WINGS "Kltll" 'EM FI.VINO"

Above: This miniature pilot wing was my father's. It is intended for wear on the lapel of a civilian suit coat.

STERLING BELL. TRADING CO. 403 W.

COPPER

ALBUQUERQUE. N.

M.

Left: This two inch navigator wing is stilI on the original card with the price of $1.50. (Michael]. Perry)

Aviation wings were officially categorized as badges and are referred to as such in "The Officer's Guide," which was the official handbook of the period. The instructions for wearing badges is stated in the 1944 edition as follows:

The approved aviation badges in the 1944 edition of "The Officer's Guide", 1944 edition, are as below and top of next page:

(j) Aviation badge; parachutists' com'bat Infantryman and expert Infantryman badge.

SENIOR PlLOT

Badges, How Worn. Badges are worn on the left breast; aviation, parachutists, and Combat and Expert Infantryman badges are worn above the line of medals or service ribbons, other badges below that line. Aviation badges earned by Army personnel while serving in the United States Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard are worn immediately above the upper right pocket of the service coat and immediately above the right pocket of the service shirt when worn as an outer garment. Substitutes are not authorized to be worn in lieu of badges. There is no order of precedence for badges. Wearing World War (I - ed.) Aviation Badges. Many officers of the World War period have been reappointed into the Army to perform administrative and other duties. Some of these officers were entitled to wear the aviation badge prior to separation from the service. There is no specific authority to resume the wearing of this badge. However, unless the authorization has been cancelled in an individual case it is believed to be quite proper to do so. The officer should be able to produce evidence that he was once entitled to wear the badge. Embarassment may be avoided by presenting this evidence to the local commander with a request to wear it.

SENIOR BALLOON' PILOT

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

76

lanCII PILOT

GLIl)m PlLOT

P:uacbutlsis' Badge.

Bar, AP Armorer. Bombardier.

LIAlION PILOT

Flight Nurse.

Basic Badge. AAJi' Tcchn1clan.

AIRCR£\v ME7t1DER

Gunner.

N4VlGATOa

Plate 34. Aviation B3.dges.

n.IOST SURGEON

&lLLOOM OUDV1IIl

It is interesting to note that the 1943 Officer's Guide did not picture

or mention the badges for flying instructor, bombardier, flight nurse, gunner, or AAF technician. Many bombardiers were issued combat observer wings upon graduation from bombardier school, prior to the introduction of the bombardier wing badge. This was documented in an article "Bombardier School," which appeared in the 18 Ma~ 1942 edition of Life. The article, which chronicled training at Midland, Texas, goes on to say that bombardiers may receive a wing with a bomb on it soon, which of course happened. The designation of the" 0" wing badge changed from" combat observer" in the 1943 "Officer's Guide," to "aircraft observer" in the 1944 edition. The final A.A.F. aviation badge, which is not pictured in either the 1943 or 1944 "Officer's Guide," is the flight engineer badge. This wing, which featured a radial engine and four blade propeller in the center, did not appear until late World War II. Prior to the introduction of this wing, flight engineers wore the air crew wing. Each wing badge was produced in countless designs and patterns. To give you a feel for this, I have provided a number of pilot wing examples. In theory, each of the wing patterns found on these pilot wings could exist in some or all of the other qualifications. The first pattern illustrated is the one which most closely follows official drawings and was commonly issued at graduation. Veterans sometimes refer to this pattern as the" slick wing." Eight examples of this basic pattern are provided. At first glance they appear to be the same, however, on careful examination you will find subtle differences in these wings.

445th Bomb Group bombardier RC. Slusher wearing his "graduation combat observer wing." Bob remembered that when the bombardier wing became available, he immediately bought one. He said, "we all wanted the one with the bomb on it!" (Slusher)

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

77

#1

Front and back of Sterling clutch back pilot wing by Josten. Josten wings, although simple in design, were of high quality.

#2

Front and back of pin back pilot wing by Robbins Co. The wing is not marked sterling.

#3

Front and back of A.E. Co. sterling pin back pilot wing worn by Joe D. Maguire, 321st Air Transport Squadron, 27th Air Transport Group. Note triangle hallmark on back.

78

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

#4

Front and back ofan interesting pin back AE. Co. pilot wing die struck from brass and silver plated. The wing likely pre-dates World War II, as brass became very scarce during war time. It is very unusual to see an AE. Co. wing in non-sterling.

#5

Front and back ofa third example ofan AE. Co. pilot wing, this time in sterling clutch back.

#6

Front and back: This pin back sterling"slick wing" is from the prestigious firm of Luxenberg. This is sometimes referred to by collectors as a "third pattern" Luxenberg.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

79

#7

This pin back example is simply marked "sterling."

#8

Front and back: This very heavy "slick wing" is unmarked with a brass pin.

#9

Although very close to the slick pattern (and arguably stilI is in that category), this pin back sterling wing shows feathering on the shoulders. On the back, the sterling mark is only partially present. Part of the S, TE, and part of the Rare visible.

80

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

#10

An attractive stylized pattern in sterling pin back.

#11

This badge is unique in that the shield is separately applied to the wing. This was no doubt a manufacturer's attempt at simplifying production by making one wing with different centers applied. Reverse: Another feature of this wing is that it was obviously produced in pin back and clutch back versions. In the upper left portion of the wing (outside of the catch) a circular mark is visible indicating where the post would be soldered on the clutch back version.

#12

Non-sterling pin back wing by Gemsco. Reverse: Note the open catch which is absolutely correct and quite common on pre-World War II wings.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

#13

An uncommon pattern in sterling pin back. Reverse: The name "Yock" has been scratched into the wing.

#14

A nice issue piece in afairly uncommon pattern.

#15

Early Amcraft pin back "snowflake" in non-sterling. Reverse: The "snowflake" pattern is clearly visible in this photograph.

81

82

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

#16

Sterling pin back pilot by Amico. This pattern is very close to the second pattern Balfour.

#17

This delicate wing pattern is generally believed to date from the 1920s. It is sometimes found with the B.B.&B. hallmark. This particular wing is simply marked sterling. The author has not seen photographic evidence of this pattern worn in World War II, but it is certainly possible.

#18

A nicely made pin back sterling pilot.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

83

#19

Sterling pin back pilot by Amcraft.

#20 This pattern is often found with the N.S. Meyer hallmark. This particular wing worn by B-25 pilot Bill Neilson in the C.B.!. is only marked "sterling."

B-25 pilot William Neilson, 491st Bomb Squadron, wearing the above wing on his shirt.

84

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

#21 Sterling pin back pilot by Orber.

#22 First pattern Balfour in pin back sterling.

#23 Second pattern Balfour in pin back sterling.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

85

#24

Third pattern Balfour in pin back sterling. Most of the third pattern wings seen by the author have had the "frosted" silver finish, as on this piece.

The JlFinely Feathered" Patterns #25,26,27,28,29,30 and 31 have detailed feathering in the wings. These patterns are highly sought after by collectors because they are more uncommon and they are beautiful pieces.

#25

Pin back sterling; maker unknown.

#26

Pin back unmarked. The pattern is similar to Blackinton.

86

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

#27

The highly prized "Sterling by Blackinton" pin back. This wing is very desirable because of its beauty and rarity. Reverse: "Sterling by Blackinton" logo is visible on the shield.

#28

Sterling clutch back; maker unknown.

#29

Among the most sought after wings by collectors is this Luxenberg "1 st pattern. " It is very high quality and extremely detailed. This pattern is only known to exist in sterling pin back. This particular wing was worn by Lt. Ralph Jenks of the 27th Air Transport Group in Europe.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

87

#30

Pin back sterling pilot badge; maker unknown.

#31

Although not a rare pattern, the very fine feather detail and overall design makes for a very handsome wing badge in this pin back sterling example. This is the pattern issued to my dad, Joe Maguire, upon graduation from Frederick Army Air Field, Class of 44D (April 1944).

Foreign Made U.S. Wing Patterns

#32

Pin back pilot wing by J,R. Gaunt, London. This wing is often found unmarked and seldom in sterling. Reverse: The triangular spring style pin and open catch visible on this wing are typical of badges made in the U.K. (Edwards)

88

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

#33

This stylized wing is the higher quality die struck version made by the Australian firm of Wallace Bishop, Brisbane. It is marked"silver. " The badge appears to be struck in three separate pieces and then soldered together. Reverse: This wing also has the triangular spring pin seen frequently on English made wings.

#34

Cast version of the Wallace Bishop Brisbane badge. This wing appears to be cast of brass and plated. The author has seen this badge with star attached for senior pilot. Reverse: The makers mark is struck into a separate piece of metal and then applied to the back.

#35

Another wing prized by collectors is this pin back sterling "Juarez" pattern generally believed to be made in Mexico. These badges are found unmarked, sterling marked, and marked "coin silver." All examples seen by the author have been pin back.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

89

#36 This pattern is generally a l.R. Gaunt pattern, but this wing is unmarked. Ludlaw made a very similar pattern also. The method of attachment on this wing is unusual in that it has lugs and a cotter pin, as is common on British metal insignia.

#37 This sterling pin back wing badge was made by Angus & Coote of Australia. Reverse: Maker mark reads "Angus & Coote Stg. Sil."

#38 This die struck stylized pattern in clutch back is from an unknawn maker. The piece is unmarked.

90

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

#39

This wing, although technically not a World War II era piece, is included as it is of speical interest, and has unusual ties to World War II. It was produced by the German firm of Assmann, which manufactured German pilots' badges during World War II. It is a clutch back wing, and is marked with the Assmann "A" and "322." It was more than likely manufactured for occupation forces.

Senior and Command Ratings Pilot wing badges were also awarded in senior and command versions. The senior pilot wing was authorized to have a star, one half inch in diameter, 1/16 of an inch above the shield. Sometimes the star is found struck as one piece with the wing and sometimes separately applied. The requirements generally accepted for senior pilot were five years of service and 1500 hours logged.

Non-sterling pin back N.S. Meyer senior pilot wing. This wing has the collar size General's star affixed. (Linke)

N.S. Meyer produced senior wings in several variations. One utilized a collar size General's rank star soldered onto the top of the shield. A second version featured a smaller star with two posts coming off of the bottom points, affixed to the shield.

This'9th Air Force Major wears an Amcraft pattern senior pilot wing. Also of interest is the theater made 9th Air Force patch on his shoulder. (Campbell Archives) Two at right: Non-sterling pin back N.S. Meyer senior pilot wing with star on posts soldered onto the shield. (JS Industries)

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

91

This seniar pilot wing is the Orber pattern in sterling. It appears to have been converted from pin back to clutch back for ease of wearing on the uniform.

The command pilot wing was the same design as the senior pilot with a wreath encircling the star. A minimum of ten years service and 2000 hours was required for this badge.

A nice early unmarked pin back command pilot wing.

Non-sterling pin back command pilot wing by Meyer. (Linke)

This command pilot wing is a sterling clutch back marked AE. Co.

92

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Brig. General I.E. Upston wears a command pilot wing in this photo. (Linke)

Major General Paul L. Williams, Commanding General, 9th Troop Carrier Command, wears a command pilot's wing in this photo. (U.S.A.A.F.)

This high quality command pilot's wing is a sterling, clutch back made by Jostin.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

93

The Navigator Wing Badge Navigator wings were awarded upon completion of the A.A.F. course in aerial navigation. The device in the center of the wing is an ancient astronomical instrument called an armillary sphere. The badge was established 4, September 1942.

Sterling clutch back navigator by Balfour.

Sterling pin back navigator by Gemsco. (Linke)

This beautiful, finely feathered, sterling pin back navigator wing was worn by Howard R. Sossamon who served on B-24s with the 767th Bomb Squadron, 461st Bomb Group, 15th Air Force.

Lt. Wilmer Walstad wore this sterling clutch back navigator wing. Walstad served on B-17s with the 94th Bomb Group, 8th Air Force and was a member of the Caterpillar Club.

94

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

The Air Crew Member Wing Badge This rating was established 4 September 1942 and was originally given to gunners, radio operators, photographers and various other air crew members.

Sterling pin back air crew wing by Balfour.

Sterling pin back air crew; maker unknown. (Linke)

Sterling pin back air crew. (Linke)

Sterling pin back air crew by N.S. Meyer. (Linke)

Unmarked clutch back air crew.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

95

The Bombardier Wing Badge The bombardier badge was awarded to graduates of the A.A.F. bombardiers training program. The rating was established 4 September 1942 and discontinued 26 July 1949. The device in the center of the badge is a bomb falling on a target.

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This unmarked clutch back badge was worn by Bob Slusher, 445th Bomb Group, 8th Air Force.

This sterling pin back badge was also worn by Bob Slusher.

The classic Balfour pattern bombardier. The bomb was separately applied using two rivets on this badge.

Sterling pin back bombardier by Orber. (Linke)

96

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

A beautiful English made bombardier wing. (Michael J. Perry)

Sterling pin back bombardier by A.E. Co. (Linke)

This exquisite Luxenberg pin back sterling bombardier was worn by Thomas Burrell, 447th Bomb Group, 8th Air Force. (Michael J. Perry)

"Juarez" pattern bombardier in coin silver, pin back.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

97

The Aerial Gunner Wing Badge To qualify as an aerial gunner, the airman had to graduate from a six week course in flexible gunnery. Navigator and bombardier cadets had to take this course also. The badge, which features a bullet with wings, was established 29 April 1943 and discontinued 26 July 1949. Above left: Sterling pin back gunner by Balfour.

Fine feathered sterling pin back gunner. (Linke)

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Sterling pin back gunner by A.E. Co.

Sterling clutch back gunner. (Linke)

Sterling pin back gunner. (Linke)

Unmarked clutch back gunner wing.

98

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

The Combat Observer/Aircraft Observer Wing Badge This is one of the more confusing qualification badges of World War II because of the change in name and in the numerous possible ways of earning the qualification. The badge is referred to as "combat observer" through the 1943 edition of "The Officers Guide." In the 1944 edition the designation changes to "aircraft observer." This qualification in 1944 could be earned by two distinctive groups. The first group eligible for the rating of aircraft observer was for individuals who held ratings as pilot, senior pilot, command pilot and balloon pilot. These individuals had to have qualified as expert aerial gunner or aerial sharpshooter, been certified by their commanding officer as competent to perform the job of aircraft observer and meet one of the following: (1) Be a graduate of the A.A.F. Tactical School with six years as a rated pilot. (2) Completed the course in aerial navigation, be a qualified bombardier, or have served regularly as an assigned member of a combat crew in an observation/reconnaissance unit. (3) Have served as an assigned member of a combat crew in a

balloon squadron, and be certified competent by the commanding officer to be an Aircraft Observer. The second group which was eligible for the Aircraft Observer badge consisted of individuals who held the ratings of Bombardier, Navigator, Radio Observer Night Fighter, Radio Observer RCM, and Flight Engineer. To earn the observer rating these individuals had to demonstrate their ability to perform these duties satisfactorily in a theater of operations, be certified as competent in these functions by their commanding office, and have flown 50 hours of combat performing these functions. The Combat Observer/ Aircraft Observer badge had an "0" in the center of the wings. This badge was not often worn, as many who qualified preferred to wear the more recognized wing badges. The rating was established 14 October 1921 and discontinued 26 July 1949. This badge was also obtainable in the senior version with star over the" 0", for observers with 500 hours and at least five years service as a rated observer.

This lieutenant of the 422nd N.F.S., receiving the D.F.C., is wearing the Aircraft Observer wing. (Stegner via Campbell) Sterling pin back Combat Observer/Aircraft Observer by Amico.

Sterling pin back Combat Observer/Aircraft Observer; no maker mark.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

99

The Service Pilot Wing

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This badge looked like a pilot wing with the letter "S" in the shield. Established 4 September 1942, the service pilot rating was created to allow experienced civilian pilots who were over age to join the Army Air Force and fly assignments other than combat. Typical assignments for service pilots included flight instructor, cargo and ferrying. Service pilots with 1500 military hours and five years experience as a civilian pilot qualified for the senior service pilots wing, which had a star above the shield. Above left: Sterling clutch back service pilot wing. (Michael ]. Perry)

Sterling pin back first pattern Balfour service pilot wing.

Sterling pin back Meyer service pilot wing. (Linke)

The Liaison Pilot Wing The letter "L" in the shield signified liaison pilot. This rating was established 4 September 1942. These pilots flew small, lightweight aircraft such as L-4s and L5s, primarily as artillery spotters. They also, on occasion, provided other utility functions such as casualty evacuation and transportation for high ranking officers and other VIPs. Liaison pilots often were Sergeants, as opposed to officers, and had a shorter training period than A.A.F. pilots. Liaison pilots were not qualified to fly the more powerful and heavier combat aircraft. There was no senior version of the liaison wing authorized. Above left: Sterling pin back liaison pilot wing; no maker mark. (Linke)

Sterling pin back liaison pilot wing from the seldom encountered maker, Dodge Inc" Chicago.

100

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The Glider Pilot Wing Glider wings were awarded to individuals who graduated from the advanced course in glider pilot training. These men were often Staff-Sergeants or Flight Officers. Pilots could also be rated as glider pilots if they had three hours time, made a minimum of ten landings, passed a flight test and were recommended by an examining board. Most pilots made sure they did not complete these requirements to avoid being called up on an emergency glider assault! The glider wing was established 4 September 1942. Above right: Sterling pin back glider pilot wing by Amico.

Pin back glider pilot wing by f.R. Gaunt, London. (Edwards)

Pin back sterling "Juarez" glider pilot wing. (Edwards)

Pin back sterling glider pilot wing. (Linke)

Pin back sterling glider pilot wing by Amcraft.

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101

The Flight Engineer Wing This was one of the last wings authorized in World War II (19 June 1945). Flight engineers were the chief aircraft technicians while in the air and served double dutY as air gunners on bomber crews. Prior to the introduction of this wing, flight engineers wore air crew wings. Sterling clutch back flight engineer wing made by the seldom encountered 11!aker, Charles Polk Co.

Pin back flight engineer wing by N. S. Meyer. (Linke)

The Medical Wings Flight Surgeon and Flight Nurse Civilian physicians, who were aviation medical examiners prior to entering the service, could qualify as a flight surgeon after one year in the service and 50 hours of flying time. When first established, 11 February 1943, the flight surgeon wing was gold. On 12 September 1944 the color was changed to silver to follow the tradition established with other U.S. Army wing badges. Gold plated pin back sterling flight surgeon wing. (Linke)

One of the most elegant wing designs of the period was this Balfour flight surgeon in clutch back 1/ 20 10K gold filled finish.

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The Balfour silver flight surgeon in pin back sterling.

The flight nurse wing established 15 December 1943 was awarded to women in the Army Nurse Corps who served at least six months at an A.A.F. hospital and completed the eight week training course for flight nurses. These women served on board casualty evacua-

tion aircraft, which were most often C-47 Skytrains. Like the flight surgeon wing, the flight nurse wing was originally authorized in gold, but changed to silver 12 September 1944. The flight nurse wing only came in the two inch size.

Gold plated sterling pin back flight nurse wing by Amico.

Clutch back sterling silver flight nurse wing marked acid test and sterling.

Two flight nurses with wings visible over left breast' pocket, talking with pilots of the 27th Air Transport Group in the E. T.O.

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The Technical Observer Wing

Pin back sterling technical obseroer wing; no maker mark.

Commissioned officers who were rated as command pilot, senior pilot, pilot, senior balloon pilot, or balloon pilot, could obtain the technical observer wing if they were certified by their commanding officer as qualified by experience and ability to perform technical observation duty incident to the operation of aircraft in flight. These might include performance of duty by air combat crew, equipment operation, and evaluation of air tactics, such as formation flying. This rating was established in 1942.

Lighter Than Air Badges Although obsolete by World War II, balloon wings were still worn during the period. There were three basic types of lighter than air wings awarded by the Army; balloon pilot, balloon observer, and airship pilot. Of these wings, balloon pilot was the only one with a star, indicating senior status, obtainable.

This early pin back balloon pilot wing dates from 1919. The same basic design was in use from that period until it became obsolete.

Sterling pin back balloon obseroer wing by N.S. Meyer.

Pin back airship pilot wing.

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The Flying Instructors Wing 6 March 1943 a new "wing" was authorized to be worn on the right cuff of the uniform for flight instructors. The wing was described as "gold wings embroidered in silk, two inches from tip to tip, of the same design as the air corp insignia, omitting the propeller."

Although officially to be made of silk, instructors wings were often made of bullion wire, as is the case with this example.

The

1/

e" Wing

One wing occasionally surfaces, which has been misidentified and speculated about by historians and collectors, with a "C" in the shield. It exists as a one piece die struck wing and as a pilot wing with the letter" C" separately attached. It is confusing in that it is a three inch, often pin back wing, in the same configuration as the glider, liaison, and service pilot wings and looks like a World War II wing badge. In actuality, the" C" wing was a cap device for civilian instructors at Cimarron Field outside of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Front and back of Sterling pin back Cimarron Field civilian instructor's cap wing. (Cook)

Left: Civilian instructor at Cimarron Field wearing a variation of the "C" wing on his hat.

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

B-26 clipped pilot wing originally owned by Marauder pilot R.H. Swan. (Edwards)

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One variation of a p.o.w. made pilot wing. (Michael]. Perry)

The B-26 Clipped Wing"

P.O.W. Wings

An interesting novelty wing of World War II was created by B-26 Marauder pilots. The B-26 had a very high wing loading and consequently was a very "hot" airplane to fly. In honor of their airplane, many Marauder pilots had wings cut down leaving only the shoulder portion.

When flyers were shot down and became prisoners of war, they often were not able to keep their original wing badges for one reason or another. P.O.W.s began casting wings from tin foil saved from food packages and used them for sale or barter in the camps. These wings were of many designs, usually a variation on an official A.A.F. wing.

1/

Bullion Wings In addition to the endless variations of metal wing badges, there existed an equally amazing variety of bullion and cloth wings. Each bullion wing was hand made, so each one was a unique piece. Usually the wing was made on a separate piece of cloth, the same color as the uniform, and sewn into place. Occasionally uniforms are seen with bullion insignia sewn right into the uniform. To date, bullion wings have not been as sought after by many collectors as their metal counterparts. In the author's opinion, they provide a beautiful display and are a very important part of U.S. Army Air Force insignia history. I have provided a number of examples of bullion and cloth wings for your review.

Bullion command pilot wing on olive drab.

Left: This 'beautiful set of pilot, senior pilot and command pilot wings in bullion was obviously made by the same person. (Edwards)

106

This unusual bullion senior pilot wing with upside down star, was worn by Colonel George E. Lowell, Jr. (J. W Cook)

A nicely detailed pilot wing in bullion with no visible backing. When applied to a uniform, this wing would appear to be made into the uniform cloth itself.

Bullion pilot wing on cotton twill. Often, bullion insignia was applied to cotton uniforms with snaps, so the insignia could be removed for laundering. This wing was likely never worn on a uniform.

SILVER WINGS/ PINKS & GREENS

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

107

Bullion pilot wing on olive drab cloth with finished edge to prevent unraveling.

Bullion pilot wing on olive drab.

A heavily tarnished bullion pilot wing, on twill, sewn in place on a summer tan uniform. (Smetana)

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An unusual pilot wing design in bullion incorporating sequins in the feathers and an open shield. (Michael]. Perry)

This wing is one of the most beautiful bullion designs the author has encountered! It is sewn to a piece of brass with an English style pin, so it may be removed from the uniform. This wing was made in the C.B.!. and was worn by William Neilson, who flew B-25s with the 491st Bomb Squadron.

Lt. William Neilson (left), stateside, enjoying dinner with friends. Close examination reveals that Neilson is wearing the beautiful pin back bullion pilot wing (visible to

the right of the champagne bucket over his ribbon bar).

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

109

A highly stylized bombardier wing in bullion on olive drab cloth. (Edwards)

Brigadier General I.E. Upston wearing a cloth command pilot wing on his bush jacket. (Linke)

Bullion bombardier wing on tan wool.

Padded, uncut glider wing in bullion on olive drab. (Edwards)

Bullion navigator wing on tan twill.

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Bullion navigator wing on olive drab wool.

Bullion air gunner wing on tan wool.

Bullion air crew wing on tan wool.

Gold flight surgeon wing in bullion on padded olive drab cloth.

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

WINGS & OTHER QUALIFICATION BADGES

111

This officer is wearing a World War I era wing on his shirt. As he does not appear to be old enough to be a World War I veteran, it is conceivable that he got permission to wear a relative's wing. This is seldom encountered on World War II uniforms.

Silver flight surgeon wing in bullion on tan wool cloth.

World War I era U.S. pilot's wing similar to the one seen in the above photo.

C.B.I. theater made bullIOn service pilot wing.

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The Combat Crew" Patch /J

A fair number of photographs and actual uniforms exist with the combat crew patch visible behind the wing badge. This patch was not seen consistently in any particular theater and seems to be most common in the E.T.O. Several stories have surfaced as to how it came about. One says that it was authorized to prevent non-aircrew members from pinning on wings when off base, to "impress the girls." The 19 December 1943 issue of "Yank" shows the blue patch behind the wings and says that it indicated the individual was on a combat crew. Members of the 493rd Bomb Group recall the blue patch showed they were on operations, and gold braid around the patch indicated lead crew. 20th Fighter Group veterans remember the blue patch as used by crewmen after their first mission to distinguish them from aircrew not in combat. Above and below: An English made, white silk air crew wing on the blue combat crew patch.

Above and below: English made combat crew patch with gold braid indicating lead crew.

The blue "combat crew" patch sewn in place on this air gunner's "Ike jacket."

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113

This pilot of the 422nd Night Fighter Squadron, receiving the D.F.C., wears the combat crew patch behind his pilot wing. (Stegner via Campbell)

In addition to wings worn on the rectangular patch, they were also simply made on blue backgrounds, cut to shape.

Above: This beautifully detailed bullion pilot wing on blue was worn by P-47 pilot Sidney D. Radoccia of the 485th Fighter Squadron, 370th Fighter Group, 9th Air Force.

Above: Another beautiful example ofa bullion pilot wing on blue. (Edwards) Left: This B-26 air gunner of the 585th Bomb Squadron, 394th Bomb Group, wears the combat crew patch behind his air gunner wing.

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English made, bullion glider pilot wing on blue. (Edwards)

Wings of Other Countries Worn on U.S.A.A.F. Uniforms American airmen, who had qualified for wings of other countries, were entitled to wear those wings on the right breast of their American uniform. Many Americans in World War I first served with the

French before the u.s. entered the war. These airmen, if still serving in World War II, could wear their French wings. The most common foreign wings worn by u.s. airmen were those of the United Kingdom. Many Americans served with the Canadians or the British before transferring to the U.S.A.A.F.. Americans who served with the A.Y.G. wore Chinese wings on their A.A.F. uniforms after transferring.

World War I era French pilot ll)ing as worn by many Americans. The design of this wing has not changed since that time period.

The wings ofa Royal Air Force pilot as worn by many American airmen.

Right: An American Colonel wearing the French pilot wing. (Campbell)

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Former Eagle Squadron members Don Gentile and Duane Beeson after transferring to the AAF.. Their R.AF. pilot wings are clearly visible over their right breast pockets. (U.S.AF.)

Above: This pilot of the 27th Air Transport Group wears an R.AF. pilot wing on his right breast. Left: A British glider pilot wing can be seen on the right chest of this American glider pilot. (Conway)

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Other Qualification Badges To qualify for the technician badge an airman was required to have at least six months service and evidence of capability or graduation from a technical training course in any of 24 specialties. The specialties were: airplane armorers; airplane electrical, hydraulic and instrument specialist; airplane mechanic, machinist, metal worker and welder; airplane power plant specialist; airplane propeller specialist; ACS radio specialist; bombsight mechanic, link trainer instruc-

tor, parachute rigger, photographer, photographic laboratory technician, power turret and gunsight specialist, radio V-I mechanic, radio V-I observer, radio mechanic, radio operator, teletypewriter mechanic, weather forecaster, observer. Late in the war three qualification bars were added: RC Turret Mech., RC T.Mech. Gunner, and RC Turret Rep.

Arms Qualifications Badges

Army Air Force technician badge in pin back sterling with mechanic bar. (Linke) Above: Marksman and 2nd class gunner. (Linke)

Sharpshooter and 1st class gunner. (Linke) Right: Expert.

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These two airmen wear the same three qualification badges. The wing badge is "aircrew. Under the wing to the reader's left is the basic badge for AAF. technician with bars for radio operator and radio mechanic. The badge to the reader's right under the aircrew wing is the marksman and second class gunner badge. The bar under this badge is not legible in the photograph. II

Badges for markSmanship, gunnery. bombing, etc.

@

The 1944 edition of "The Officers Guide" gives the following information regarding "badges for marksmanship, gunnery, bombing, etc."

Badges for marksmanship, gunnery, bombing etc. Badges for qualification in use ofarms. General. For anyone weapon, only the badge for the qualification held at the time will be worn. For the designation of authorized weapons see AR 600-35. No more than one basic badge (AR 600-35) of any class, for example, marksman, pistol marksman, etc., will be worn. Requalification, or qualification in the same class with more than one weapon, will be indicated by appropriate bars (AR 600-35), which will be worn attached to the basic badge. Period during which badges may be worn. (a) Enlisted men. Badges attained by individual enlisted men as a result of qualification in weapons designated as their principal arm may be worn from the date the qualification or requalification is announced in orders until their next opportunity to requalify. Badges attained in weapons other than those designated as their principal arm may be worn during the period of current enlistment or until they are agian tested for qualification. (b) Officers. Officers may wear the badge of last qualification. Badges for distinguished designations. Army team and corps area team marksmanship badges. Army Air Forces technician badge. Driver and mechanic award badge. Marine drivers badge. See AR 775-50 for qualifications. Aviation badges. Eligibility to wear Army aviation badges will be as prescribed by the Commanding General, Army Air Forces.

CHAPTER III

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES Shoulder Sleeve Insignia he War Department approved shoulder sleeve insignia to be worn on the left sleeve below the shoulder. The Army Air Forces insignia was a . white star with a red disc in the center, with gold wings surmounting the star, on an ultra-marine disc. The ultra-marine background symbolized the air and sky and the gold wings above the star were an indication of victorious operations. The most common examples of World War II era A.A.F. sleeve patches are the fully embroidered types. Following is a photographic reference of Army Air Force patches of World War II, most of which are fully embroidered examples. Variations will be covered later in the chapter.

The 1st Air Force - Headquarters at Mitchel Field, New York. Eastern United States/Atlantic seaboard.

T

The 2nd Air Force - Headquarters at Fort George Wright, Washington. Western United States.

Left: The Army Air Forces insignia.

OPPOSITE: Oris Johnson of the 422nd NFS wearing an embroidered version of the green bat squadron insignia. (Stegner via Campbell)

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The 3rd Air Force - Headquarters at Tampa, Florida. Southeastern United States.

The 4th Air Force - Headquarters at March Field, California. Far western United States.

The 5th Air Force - Headquarters on Java in the Netherlands Indies, February 1942. Headquarters moved to Brisbane, Australia in September 1942, and moved throughout the Southwest Pacific with the Allied advance.

The 6th Air Force - Headquarters at Albrook Field in the Canal Zone. Caribbean area.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

The 7th Air Force - Headquarters at Hickam Field, Hawaii, and advanced to Saipan and Okinanwa. Central Pacific.

The 8th Air Force - Headquarters at High Wycombe, England. Carried out strategic missions over Europe.

The 9th Air Force - Headquarters in Egypt, England, and France. Carried out tactical missions over Europe.

The 10th Air Force - Headquarters in India. India-Burma area.

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The 11 th Air Force - Headquarters at Elmendorf Field, Alaska, and later moved to Adak Island in the Aleutians. Northern Pacific.

The 12th Air Force - Headquarters in Algeria, Tunisia, and Italy. Carried out tactical missions in the Mediterranean area.

The 13th Air Force - Headquarters and operations in the south Pacific.

The 14tTz Air Force - Headquarters and operations in China.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

123

The 15th Air Force - Headquarters in Italy. Carried out strategic missions in the Mediterranean and Europe.

The 20th Air Force - Activated April 1944 in Washington, D. C. B-29 Superfortress operations against Japan.

United States Strategic Air Forces in Europe. Established January 1, 1944 under the command of General Carl Spaatz at Bushy Park, England. In August 1945, USSTAF was redesignated "U.S. Air Forces in Europe. "

Mediterranean Allied Air Force. Composed of u.s. and British air commands; fought in the Mediterranean area under Lt. General Ira Eaker. Established December 1943.

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Desert Air Force. Composed of u.s. and British air commands; fought in north Africa. This example is on felt.

The 12th Tactical Air Command; assigned to 12th Air Force.

Headquarters Command. This is actually a U.S. Air Force patch, as the command was established in March 1948 at Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C. The insignia was originally approved for the Bolling Field Detachment, later the 14th Bomb Squadron.

Continental Air Command. This patch is also a USAF patch dating from 1948. Headquarters at Mitchell AFB, New York.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

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1st Troop Carrier Command. Trained troop carrier organizations and personnel established at Stout Field, Indiana, 1942.

9th Troop Carrier Command; assigned to 9th Air Force. Airborne and transport operations in the E.T.O.

Air Technical Service Command; Europe. Established February 1945, responsible for aircraft supply and maintenance for the 8th, 9th and 1st Tactical Air Forces.

Air Materiel Command. Headquarters Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio. Activated March 1946.

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9th Engineer Command (Advance). Established in March 1944 as a component of the 9th Air Force. Their mission was to construct and refurbish airfields on the continent.

Far East Air Force. Established in August 1944 under Major General George Kenney at Brisbane, Australia to provide command for USAAF units in the Southwest Pacific.

Alaskan Air Command. Established December 1945, at Elmendorf Field.

Women's Air Ferrying Command.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

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U.S. Air Forces in Europe. Established in August 1945 (formerly USSTAF).

Army Airways Communications System Wing; Ashville, North Carolina. AACS became a command in Apri/1944. Personnel worked in control towers, communications, cryptographic rooms, radio facilities etc.

Combat Crew.

Military Air Transport Service. Established June 1948.

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Air Training Command USAF. Shoulder patch approved 1949.

The Air University. Established March 1946 at Maxwell Field, Alabama.

Air Force Reserve Officers Training Corp. This patch was first worn in 1947.

GHQ Air Force. This Army Air Corps "pin wheel" design was the forerunner to the "winged star" as the A.A.F. insignia. The insignia represents a whirling propeller. This example is on felt.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

Oklahoma City Air Depot.

Air Transport Command.

Ferry Command.

Air Transport Command, Ground Personnel.

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Variations Perhaps the second most common form of U.S.A.A.F. shoulder patch, behind the fully embroidered versions, were the embroidered on felt variations. I have included five felt examples.

1st Air Force, embroidered on felt.

2nd Air Force, embroidered on felt.

3rd Air Force, embroidered on felt.

15th Air Force, embroidered on felt.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

United States Strategic Air Forces, embroidered on felt.

Other fabrics, such as twill or hopsack weaves, were used occasionally as backing as is found in this 4th Air Force example.

Some of the most interesting variations in U.S.A.A.F. shoulder patches exist in the theater made examples.

AAF. patch made in the C.B.I. theater, worn by B-25 pilot Bill Neilson of the 491st Bomb Squadron.

131

Reverse of Neilson's AAF. patch with snaps for removal from uniform for laundering.

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C.B.I. made 10th Air Force patch, hand embroidered on cotton twill.

Reverse of C.B.I. made 10th Air Force patch.

Front and rear ofanother theater made Tenth Air Force patch.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

Theater made C.B.I. patch worn by B-25 pilot Bill Neilson, 491st Bomb Squadron.

133

Reverse of Neilson's C.B.I. patch with snaps, for removal from uniform for laundering.

The original design of the 8th Air Force insignia was this version with short, straight wings. When it was submitted for approval the wings were extended and curved to conform more with the rest of the AAF. designs. Many of the theater-made examples maintained the original design and old time 8th vets much preferred this short wing version, made in the United Kingdom. Right: Reverse of English made, short winged 8th Air Force patch.

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This embroidered on felt 5th Air Force patch was made in Australia.

Reverse ofAustralian made 5th Air Force patch on felt.

Australian made 5th Air Force patch on cotton twill.

This theater made version of the 9th Troop Carrier Command patch was probably more commonly worn than the American made version.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

135

Above and below: This Far East Air Forces patch was theater made in Australia.

This 9th Engineer Command patch was most likely theater made in Italy or Germany.

Bullion Patches The most beautiful and unusual variations of U.S.A.A.F. patches are those made of bullion wire. As with bullion wings, each patch is a unique hand-made piece. Examples are found both U.S. and theater made. Some of the most outstanding bullion pieces were made in the C.B.!. theater, but beautiful examples were made in the U.S., Italy, England and other locations worldwide. I have provided a number of examples of World War II era bullion shoulder insignia.

Left: 1st Air Force patch in bullion on felt.

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4th Air Force patch in bullion on felt. (Edwards)

5th Air Force patch in bullion on felt. (Edwards)

A unique C.B.I. made 10th Air Force patch in bullion on velvet. C.B.l. made patches are frequently made using velvet backing. (Edwards)

Reverse of bullion 10th Air Force patch with snaps visible so it could be removed from the uniform for laundering. (Edwards)

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

137

A very well made CR.I. patch in bullion on velvet, made in theater. This patch worn by B-25 pilot Bill Neilson, 491st Bomb Squadron.

Reverse of velvet and bullion CR.I. patch with snaps.

This magnificent, heavy bullion 12th Air Force patch was theater made.

This 12th Air Force patch is bullion wire applied over a fully embroidered patch. (Edwards)

138

Above: Theater made, bullion on velvet, 15th Air Force patch. (Edwards)

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Above: Bullion on felt 15th Air Force patch.

Right: 20th Air Force, bullion on wool. (Edwards)

Below: An exceptionally high quality, C.B.I. made, bullion on velvet AAF. patch. This example also from B-25 pilot Bill Neilson, 491st Bomb Squadron.

Below: Another beautiful example of a C.B,I. made, bullion on velvet AAF. patch. (Edwards)

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

These four bullion on felt Army Air Force patches are typical ofexample sold by u.s. uniform and tailor shops.

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Two above and below left: Three theater made examples of AAF. patches. All incorporating borders into the design.

This example of the AAF. insignia is tinsel wire on felt.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

141

Another very interesting group of variations of A.A.F. shoulder insignia are those made of leather for use on flight jackets. These designs are found simply painted on a leather disc, tooled, and in very elaborate multi-piece leather construction.

This 7th Air Force patch is painted directly on the left shoulder of an A-2 jacket worn by B-24 pilot Burt Sheriff of the 26th Bomb Squadron. The B-24 was "Lady From Hades. "

Multi-piece leather 9th Air Force patch.

Multi-piece leather with painted details, 10th Air Force patch from the A-2 jacket of "Dolph" Farrand, B-25 pilot with the 490th Bomb Squadron, "Burma Bridge Busters. "

Multi-piece leather, with painted details, on suede, 14th Air Force patch made in the C.B.I. theater.

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Multi-piece leather with painted details, 14th Air Force patch. (Oliver)

Multi-piece leather C.B.!. patch from B-25 pilot Dolph Farrand's A-2 jacket.

This AAF. patch is a combination wool, leather, and bullion for use on an A-2 jacket.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

143

A very interesting study of World War II shoulder insignia can be made by examining variations of a single unit insignia. Here follows a series of eighteen 8th Air Force shoulder patches to illustrate just a few of the endless variations.

Above: At first glance these fully embroidered 8th Air Force patches appear the same. On close examination several differences are found. The first example has nine feathers to a wing and only one open space at the bottom, where the wing joins the "8 ". The second example has eight feathers to a wing and two open spaces at the bottom ofeach wing. Further careful scrutiny will reveal other subtle differences.

Two examples of the short-winged English made version of the 8th Air Force patch.

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Three additional examples of the short-winged English made version of the 8th Air Force patch.

This printed patch was probably intended for use on the field jacket or raincoat.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

These four variations are also English made, but the design conforms more to the official curved wing U.S. version.

145

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

This English made example is fully embroidered of silk thread.

Above, below and opposite: Six versions of the 8th Air Force patch in bullion.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

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Another study of variations on a unit insignia is presented using the 9th Air Force shoulder patch.

Bullion over fully embroidered 9th Air Force patch.

Fully embroidered cotton, U.S. made, 9th Air Force patch.

Hand embroidered on felt, theater made, 9th Air Force patch.

This style of English made, on wool or felt, 9th Air Force patch was widely worn.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

English made fully embroidered silk 9th Air Force patch.

A beautiful, heavy bullion example. The silver wire is aluminum, which has resisted tarnishing over the years.

149

This printed version of the 9th Air Force patch was possibly intended for use on field jackets or raincoats.

Nice example of a theater made 9th Air Force bullion insignia.

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Three nice examples of theater made 9th Air Force bullion insignia.

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

151

Squadron Patches Perhaps the most interesting and complicated group of A.A.F. patches is squadron patches. A typical heavy bomb squadron was made up of 67 officers, 360 enlisted men and 12 airplanes. A medium bomb squadron would consist of 67 officers, 310 enlisted men and 16 airplanes. A fighter squadron typically would have 39 officers, 245 enlisted men and 25 airplanes. Relatively speaking, these were small units. As the Army Air Forces grew, there were hundreds of squadrons around the globe. Many of these squadron had official insignia, but a large number of squadron patches were unofficial. The unofficial insignia was most often theater made. Given the vast number of squadrons and the scope of their deployment, we can only guess at the number of World War II era squadron patches and variations that existed. This is by no stretch of the imagination a complete work on squadron patches. I would like to offer the reader some general knowledge and ideas about this extremely complex subject, and provide some basic references. Probably the most common examples found are U.S. made squadron patches, which are often machine embroidered on heavy felt. Another variety of U.S. made squadron patch sought after by

collectors is the chenille variation. These are thick, textile patches made in the style reminiscent of letter patches found on high school letter jackets. Squadron insignia are found painted on leather discs, canvas discs, and even painted directly on flight jackets. There were some U.S. made versions which featured a decal applied to a leather disc. The method of construction of theater made patches was largely dependent on the ability of local talent and materials available. Airmen who had access to the Isle of Capri wore some wonderful tooled leather insignia made by area craftsmen. C.B.I. veterans often wore spectacular examples of multi-piece leather insignia made by native artists. If the squadron had someone with artistic ability, that individual may very well have made the patches. Most squadron patches are around five inches in diameter, but size does vary. As with any area of collectibles, squadron patches have been and are being reproduced. They are very desirable items and if you want to collect them, find people with experience in the field and learn from them. As with wings, there are many reputable dealers and collectors - you just have to seek them out! Veterans are the safest source.

This photograph shows local talent in action! These enlisted men of the 422nd N.F.S. are making squadron patches painted on leather. (Stegner via Campbell)

152

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

U. S. made 158th Liaison Squadron patch embroidered on felt.

Technically not a squadron patch, this A. T.e. flight jacket size patch provides a nice example ofa decal on leather insignia. (Michael]. Perry)

A decal on leather, 1st Troop Carrier Command jacket patch acquired by Lt. Joe W. Stevens while in training at Sedalia Army Air Field, Warrensburg, Missouri. Stevens later served in the 321st Air Transport Squadron in the E. T.O. as a C-47 pilot. (Stevens)

Chenille 709th Bomb Squadron patch. (Michael J. Perry)

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

Chenille 601st Bomb Squadron patch. (Michael]. Perry)

153

Chenille 711th Bomb Squadron patch on an A-2 jacket. (Michael]. Perry)

These two examples oj 512th Fighter Squadron patches provide an interesting comparison. The first is painted or printed on a leather disc, while the second is painted directly on an A-2 jacket. (Michael]. Perry)

154

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Handpainted on leather 324th Bomb Squadron patch. This was the same squadron in which the famed "Memphis Bell" B-17 served. This patch is on an A-2 jacket from a crew member of "The Wild Hare."

Handpainted 14th Troop Carrier Squadron patch. (Callahan)

26th Bomb Squadron insignia painted directly on an A-2 jacket worn by B-24 pilot Burt Sheriff.

Although not worn as commonly as squadron patches, some airmen did wear group patches. This 456th Bomb Group patch is typical of tooled and painted insignia made on the Isle of Capri. (Michael]. Perry)

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

155

A multi-piece leather 7th Bomb Group patch made in the C.B.I. theater. (IS Industries)

Hand tooled and painted 826th Bomb Squadron patch made on the Isle of Capri. Also note the leather navigator's wing. (Hayes)

This leather patch is the unofficial insignia of the 456th Bomb Group, "Steed's Flying Colts. " It is also of the style commonly seen from the Isle of Capri.

Tooled and painted 2nd Fighter Squadron patch made on the Isle of Capri. (Michael ]. Perry)

156

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Another variation ofan Isle of Capri made 2nd Fighter Squadron patch. (Conway)

This stunning 414th Night Fighter Squadron patch was hand embroidered in the Mediterranean. (Michael]. Perry)

This tooled leather, painted insignia is of the 816th Bomb Squadron, 483rd Bomb Group, 15th Air Force. (Chris Oliver)

400th Bomb Squadron "Black Pirates," 90th Bomb Group ,,!oIly Rogers" patch made in Australia. (Michael]. Perry)

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

157

Theater made, on felt, 865th Bomb Squadron patch.

Multi-piece fabric constructed 44th Bomb Group insignia, "The Flying Eight Balls. " (Michael]. Perry)

An unusual specialized insignia for 44th Bomb Group flying control. (Michael].

C.B.!. made multi-piece leather patch of the 375th Bomb Squadron.

Perry)

158

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

Above left: Multi-piece leather, with painted details, patch of the 490th Bomb Squadron, "Burma Bridge Busters." This patch is from the A-2 jacket worn by "Dolph" Farrand, B-25 pilot. Above right: Lt. c.A. "Dolph" Farrand wearing the above 490th Bomb Squadron patch on his A-2 jacket. The airplane is a B-25H. (Farrand)

Tooled and painted leather 491st Bomb Squadron patch on B-25 pilot William Neilson's A-2 jacket. Neilson served with the 491st in the C.B.I. Army Airways Communications System Wing in multi-piece leather. (Oliver)

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

Leather, CB.I. made, 14th Combat Cargo Squadron patch. (JS Industries)

CB.I. theater made leather 436th Bomb Squadron patch. (JS Industries)

A tiger riding a P-38 is the insignia of the 449th Fighter Squadron. This multipiece leather example was made in the CB.I. theater. (JS Industries)

Multi-piece leather, CB.I. made 332nd Troop Carrier Squadron (later 11th Combat Cargo) patch. (JS Industries)

159

160

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

C.B.!. theater made 11th Bomb Squadron patch, in leather. (IS Industries)

C.B.I. theater made, leather, 1st Combat Cargo Squadron patch.

One of the most appealing squadron insignias of World War II is this 319th Troop Carrier Squadron, glider section patch. It features a mule with wings for ears, carrying a kukri (ghurka knife) in its mouth. The mule is superimposed on the number one for First Air Commandos and the letter "G" for gliders. At the top of the numeral one is a woman's breast. (Conway)

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

161

"The Officer's Guide" offered the following color plates of aviation squadron insignia.

AVIATION SQUADRON INSIGNIA

2ND AIR BASE SQUADRON

5TH AIR BASE SQUADRON

6TH AIR BASE SQUADRON

18TH AIR BASE SQUADRON

20TH AIR BASE SQUADRON

lOTH AIR BASE SQUADRON

1ST BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

2ND BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

lRD BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

4TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

5TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

6TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

'1TH BOMBARDME'NT SQUADRON

10TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

11TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

162

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

14TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

15TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

17TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

••.

Ill.•• ~

ft.,.~ . . '~I, .• ~ I

•

~.

19TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

20TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

25TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

29TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

30TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

31ST BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

32ND BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

33RD BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

37TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

39TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

34TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

23RD BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

40TH BOMBAR'DMENT SQUADRON

48TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

42ND BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

163

V

44TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

49TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

54TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

72ND BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

73RD BOMBARDMENT SQlMDRON

81ST BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

82ND BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

94TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

95TH .BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

99TH BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

57TH MATERIAL SQUADRON

b3RD BOMBARDMENT SQUADRON

164

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

S8TH MATERIAL SQUADRON

3RD OBSERVATION SQUADRON

IbTH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

1ST OBSERVATION SQUADRON

12TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

•

22ND OBSERVATION SQUADRON

82ND OBSERvATION SQUADRON

91ST OBSERVATION SQUADRON

10lST OBSERVATION SQUADRON

102ND OBSERVATION SQUADRON

2ND OBSERVATION SQUADRON

15TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

39TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

97TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

103RD OBSERVATION SQUADRON

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

I07TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

I08TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

165

IIOTH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

A

•

• V

IIITH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

tl5TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

IlbTH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

118TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

119TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

120TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

152ND 08SERV ATION SQUADRON

154TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

124TH OBSERVATION SQUADRON

3RD PURSUIT SQUADRON

6TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

17TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

166

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

19TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

21ST PURSUIT SQUADRON

24TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

27TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

29TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

33RD PURSUIT SQUADRON

35TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

3bT'H PURSUIT SQUADRON

37TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

38TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

39JH PURSUIT SOt!ADRON

41ST PURSUIT SQUADRON

43RD PURSUIT SQUADRON

44TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

48TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

.

-

--

-

....

_-----

--

ARMY AIR FORCE PATCHES

167

50TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

55"'FH PURSUIT SQUADRON

b5TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

bbTH PURSUIT SQUADRON

77TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

78TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

79TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

'14TH PURSUIT SQUADRON

1ST RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

4TH RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

7TH RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

12TH RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

18TH RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

21ST REC
38TH RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

168

41ST RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

44TH RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

50TH RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

88TH RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

89TH RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON

4bTH 9CHOOL SQUADRON

47TH SCHOOL SQUADRON

52ND SCHOOL SQUADRON

53RD SCHOOL SQUADRON

~ ~. ~

1.A ..

4TH AIR FORCE

AIR CORPS FERRYING COMMAND-

4TH BOMBER COMMAND

S. E. AIR CORPS TRAININ$ CENTE/l.

bTH BOMBER COMMAND

SCHOOL OF AVIATION MEDICINE

ApPENDIX Some notable changes occurred between the 1943 and 1944 editions of "The Officers Guide" in outer wear. The long overcoat M1926 changed to the belted trench coat style and the short overcoat changed from the M1926 to the beltless, notched lapel version illustrated on page 174. The earlier long overcoat and M1926 short overcoat are illustrated here from "The Officers Guide", 1943 edition.

\~f :~!

The field jacket also changed from the M1941 to the M1943. The M1943 illustrated on page 179 was referred to in the 1944 "Officers Guide" as" the new field jacket." The M1941 is illustrated here from the 1943 edition of "The Officers Guide."

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Plate '1. Field Jacket.

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THE SERVICE UNIFORMS Kinds of Service Uniforms. The uniform for wear in the performance of duty is the service uniform of which there are two kinds, the woolen and the cotton. The woolen uniform is prescribed for wear by the commanding officer when the climate or weather does not require the cotton uniform. Service Uniform, Arms, and Equipment for Officers. The articles listed below are prescribed for habitual wear by all officers and warrant officers, except as otherwise prescribed. (Par. 8, AR 600-40.)

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE When dismounted. Belt, officers' or warrant officers'. The belt, cloth, sewed, is the only prescribed belt for wear with the service coat. Cap service, except when other headgear is prescribed or authorized. Coat, service, except when shirt without coat is authorized. Decorations, service medals, and badges as prescribed or authorized. Gloves. Necktie. Ribbons, service, optional. Shirt. Shoes, Army russet leather, except when boots are authorized. Socks, plain tan or brown when low shoes are worn. Tags, identification. Trousers, service, except when breeches are authorized. Tags identification. Insignia.

Plate 1. Uniform, Wool, With Coat and Cloth Belt, and Drab Trousers. (IllU8tratlon., Courte8Y, The A••oelated MlIltary a,toree.)

When mounted. Same as above, omitting shoes, Army russet leather, and trousers, service, and adding: breeches, boots, and spurs. When on flying missions. Same as worn dismounted, omitting the service coat and adding the following as optional articles: cap, garrison (the former "overseas" or field cap); face mas~; mumer; flying suit; aviators' gloves, gauntlets, or mittens; moccasins; sweater or jacket; helmet; and goggles. When acting as aide to high officials. The following articles are worn by all officers except those on duty at the White House. The latter officers wear such uniforms as may be prescribed by the War Department. (Par. 5, AR 600-40.) Belt, officers' or warrant officers'. Cap, service. Coat, service.

APPENDIX

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT Decorations, service medals, and badges, unlesl otherwise prescribed. Wound and war chevrons optional. Gloves, dress, chamois or material of chamois color. Shirt, khaki, and black necktie. Shoes, Army russet leather. Socks, plain tan or brown when low shoel are wona. Tags IdentificatIon. Trousers, service. When attending certain official and social functions. Officers who attend the following official or social functions will wear the uniform stated above, except that dress gloves, white, will be worn instead of dress gloves, chamois. (1) For the President or ex-President of the United States. (2) At the White House. (3) By or for the chief executive of any foreign country, or any member of a reigning royal family, members of the Cabinet, General of the Armies, the Chief of Staff, a former Chief of Staff, or an army or corps area commander. When attending other special occasions. On state occasions at home or abroad, the same as stated above for wear when acting as aide to high officials. At entertainments when it is desired' to do special honor to the occasion the same uniform is worn except that white gloves are worn. At social or official functions of a general nature, when prescribed, again the white gloves will be worn. General and special courts-martial, courts of inquiry, atzd retiring boards. The same uniform is worn as stated above for habitual wear, dismounted. information under arms. Same as stated for wear while dismounted or mounted, omitting belt, officers' or warrant officers', and adding belt, pistol or revolver, M1912. For wear on field duty when dismounted. All officers and warrant officers are required to wear the following articles: Cap, garrison (the former "overseas" or field cap); except when the service hat or . other headgear is prescribed or authorized. Coat, service, or jacket, field, except when shirt without coat is authorized. Leggins, canvas, except when boots are authorized. Ribbons, service, optional. Shirt, service. Shoes, high. Army russet leather. Tags, identification. Trousers, service. Web field equipment. Pistol. Insignia. For wear on field duty when mounted. The same articles are worn as stated above for wear dismounted, omitting the leggins, shoes, and trousers, and adding breeches (service), boots, spurs, and leather gloves when prescribed. For wear in the field on flying missions. The same articles are worn as stated in paragraph. "When on flying missions," and for wear, dismounted, on field duty, except that web field equipment need not be worn. Service Uniform, Arms, and Equipment for Aviation Cadets. For habitual wear when not under arms except as may otherwise be prescribed. (Par. 10, AR600-40): Cap, garrison, or service. Coat, service, except when shirt without coat is authorized. Decorations, service medals, and badges as prescribed or authorized. Gloves, leather, Army russet or cotton, white, when prescribed Ribbons, service, optional. Shirt. Chevrons. Shoes. Tags, identification. Trousers.

171

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SILVER WINGS/ PINKS & GREENS

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE When on Bying 1111SSlOns, aviation cadets wear the articles listed above, omimng the service coat, and gloves. The following articles are optional for wear: face mask, muffler, flying suit, aviator's gloves (gauntlets or mittens), moccasins, sweater or jacket. helmet, goggles. For habnual wear under arms except as otherwise prescribed the articles worn habitually are prescribed, omItting the leather belt and adding the belt, web, cartridge, and the ntie. Work Uniform for Officers and Enlisted Men. The work uniform may be worn either over or wnhout the service uniform. In all cases, insignia of grade and arm or service will be worn as prescnbed for the olive-drab shirt. The work uniform is provided for wear on duty in the pertormance of which the clothing worn may become soiled or unSIghtly. It may be worn for drill and combat training and when participating in field exerCises and maneuvers. The articles compnslIlg the work 'uniform are as follows: Cap, herrIngbone twl1l. Gloves, when conditIOns require them. Hat, herringbone twill (other authorized headgear may be worn when climatic or serVice conditions make it advisable.) Shoes, service. Suit one-piece herringbone twill (or jacket and trousers, herringbone twill). (AR 600-35.) Tags, identification. The cap, herringbone twill, and the suit, herringbone twill, will be worn by personnel of the Armored Force and by mechanics only of the other arms and services. The hat, herringbone twill, and jacket and trousers, herringbone twill, will be worn by all other personnel. Uniform for Army Nurses. All Army nurses wear the following articles as the indoor uniform: belt, white; cap, white; cape, wool, blue; hose, to match shoes; shoes, white; uniform, white, one piece. The outdoor uniform is as follows: cap, garrison, blue; cape, wool, blue; coat, wool, serge, dark blue; gloves, suede, gray; overcoat, blue, removable lining; hose, to match shoes; skirt, wool, blue; waist, cotton, powder blue or white. ' Uniforms for Certain Civilians. Chauffeurs, messengers, and other civilians for whom other uniforms are not authorized, having a status recognized by the War Department as part of forces in the theatre of operations, will wear woolen or cotton servke uniforms, as prescribed by the commanding general, without insignia; and a prescribed brassard. Newspaper correspondents, photographers, and radio news commentors will wear the officer's uniform without insignia of grade or arm or service. All will wear a prescribed brassard. Postal employees and other civilians will wear such distinctive clothing or uniforms and brassards as may be prescribed by the War Department. COMPONENT ARTICLES OF SERVICE UNIFORMS Belt, Waist. The waist belt is of olive-drab web, 114 inches in width with an adopted buckle. It is prescribed for wear when the service shirt is worn without the coat. It may be worn at other times. The belt should be cut to the proper length. A belt unnecessarily long, with dangling bight, is unsightly. Shine the Buckle! Breeches, Service. The winter uniform provides for two colors: olive-drab No. 51 (dark shade) and drab No. 54 (light shade). In both cases the cloth is prescribed as wool, elastique, barathea, or whipcord 14Yz-26 ounce. The dark shade breeches are required to be worn by officers when in the field. The light shade breeches may be worn by officers at other times and are an article optional with the individual officer. The summer uniform provides for breeches of four materials: cotton, khaki, 8.2 ounce;', rayon, plain or twill weave; cotton warp, mohair filling, khaki; worsted, tropical;: gabardine. The color is Khaki shade No. 1. Breeches are worn by officers who are required to be mounted when on mounted duty.

APPENDIX

173

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT Personnel of animal-mounted, animal-drawn or pack organizations (except pack units of field artillery may wear breeches at all times. Trousers, Service. The colors, materials, and weights of service trousers are the same as described above for breeches. All personnel not specifically authorized to wear breeches will wear trousers. Personnel authorized to wear breeches may wear trousers when not on duty requiring them to be mounted. Olive-drab (dark shade) trousers will be worn by officers when in the field. Drab (light shade) trousers may be worn by officers at other times, but they arc: an article optional with the individual officer. Coat, Service, Winter. The winter service coat is a prescribed article of the uniform, of wool, elastique, barathea, or whipcord olive-drab No. 51 (dark shade), 14Yz-26 ounce. All coats will be buttoned throughout whenever worn.

Winter Service Coat. Plate 2.

Summer Service Coat. Officer's Service Coats.

The buttons of the service coat, except for officers of the Corps of Engineers, bear the coat of arms of the United States. Officers of the Corps of Engineers are authorized to wear buttons which have for a device a flying eagle holding in its beak a ribbon scroll bearing the word "Essayons", in the distance a bastion with embrasures surrounded by water, and on the horizon a rising sun. Shoulder loop and lapel insignia, decorations, service medals and badges are worn with the service coat as stated later in this chapter. Coat) Service, Summer. A summer coat, khaki color or adopted cloth for summer.

174

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE

Short Overcoat.

Long Field Overcoat. Plate 3. Officers' Overcoats.

APPENDIX

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT uniforms as stated above under breeches, service, and of the same design as the white dress coat is authorized for wear with the prescribed summer uniform by officers. Commanding officers will neither require the purchase nor prescribe the wearing of this coat by the officers of the command. Authorized materials: Cotton, 8.2 oz.; rayon, plain or twill weave; cotton warp, mohair filling; tropical worsted; gabardine. The trousers worn with the summer coat will be at the same material as the coat. Overcoats. There are three kinds of overcoats; the long overcoat which may be worn as long as servicable but is no longer an authorized garment for purchase; the short overcoat or mackinaw; and the new field overcoat, long, or trench coat. The prescribed materials for the short overcoat are beaver, doeskin, kersey, or mehons, 26-32 ounce in each case. The buttons are of vegetable ivory or horn, conforming in color to the material of the coat. The prescribed color is olive drab No. 52. The overcoat, field, long, is manufactured of cotton cloth, wind resistant and· water repellent poplin or twill, olive drab shade No.2 and No.7. The garment is a utility coat, two ply throughout, with a buttoned-in removable wool lining and detachable hood. It is double breasted, equipped with shoulder loops, and has a detachable belt same material as the coat. It may be assumed that either of the three garments will be acceptable for wear by officers during the period of the war although officers must be guided in this matter by local regulations. MufHer, Wool, Olive Drab. The muffler, wool, olive drab, is for optional wear when an overcoat is worn. Commanding officers will neither require the purchase nor prescribe the wearing of a muffler by officers of their commands. Shirt, Service. The service shirt is of woolen or cotton material. Woolen materials are plain or twill weave worsted shirting, 10Yz ounce in each case. Cotton materials are broadcloth, cotton, olive drab or khaki, and poplin, cotton, olive-drab or khaki. The weights of the cotton materials 00 not appear to be prescribed. Authorized colors of the wool shirt are: Olive drab shade No. 51 (dark shade); drab shade No. 54 (light shade); khaki shade No.1; olive drab shade No. 50. The cotton fabrics are khaki shade N o . 1 . ' It is noteworthy that the regulations now current authorize the wearing of the gray (drab) shirt which· matches the drab trousers. Either the olive-drab or the khaki shirt may be worn when the service coat is worn. Commanding officers may authorize the wearing of the service olive-drab or khaki shirt without the coat. When the shirt is worn, elastic or other arm bands will not be worn. When the service shirt is worn without the coat, metal or embroidered insignia of grade, and collar insignia is worn in a prescribed manner as stated later. Raincoat. Officers are well advised to exercise unusual care in the purchase of a raincoat. The tendency is to select garments which are unequal to the conditions of field service. A satisfactory garment will withstand hard, driving rain, and at the same time be of sufficiently rugged construction to resist tears, rips, and disintegration resulting from rough usage. The specifications for the raincoat: provide for the use of the outer shell of the overcoat, field, long, or at the option of the individual a coat of commercial pattern, with shoulder loops, color, olive-drab No.7. The Quartermaster Sales Stores stock a very satisfactory raincoat which meets the specification. It is "waterproof" in contrast to the shell of the field overcoat which is "water repellant." It is probably true that both are equally impervious to water when new. But a water repellant garment: is chemically treated and its rain resisting quality deteriorates with the passage of time and by dry cleaning. The raincoat is authorized for wear when in a situation involving exposure to rainy or other inclement weather. The wearing of a raincoat on a clear day as a substitute for an overcoat is as grotesque in military as in civilian apparel. Insignia of grade is worn on the shoulder loops of the raincoat. Oilskin clothing, including hats and rubber boots, may be worn by personnel of mine batteries, mine planters, and cable ships, and by other personnel for whom it is especially authorized.

175

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SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE

Garrison Cap.

Service Cap.

Service Cap, Female Medical Officers.

Olive-Drab Cotton Field Cap with Visor.

The Pile l'ielct Cap. Plate f. Beadrear

APPENDIX

177

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT Headgear. Commanding officers may prescribe the wearing of such authorized headgear in possession of troops as is appropriate under the existing weather conditions to protect best the health of the command. Cap, service. The prescribed material is the same as prescribed for the service coat. h is authorized for wear by all officers and warrant officers when not in formation with troops. Officers of the Army Air Forces wear a similar cap except front spring stiffening may be omitted and the grommet may be removed.

Wool-Knit Cap, Ml941.

Service Hat.

steel Helmet.

Helmet Liner. Plate 4.

Headgear.

Cap, garrison. The prescribed materials, both summer and winter, are as stated above for the service cap. It is authorized for wear by all personnel. (This is the former field or "overseas" cap.) Cap, winter. The material is olive-drab duck. It is authorized for wear in northern climates. Cap, winter, lambskin lined. The prescribed material is olive-drab serge. It is authorized for wear by personnel in Alaska or other cold winter localities. Cap. Wool, Knit M1941. The cap, wool, knit. M 1941, is for wear by officers, warrant officers, and enlisted men. It is olive-drab, wool knit, of a standard adopted design with curtain and visor. Hat, field, cotton, Khaki. The prescribed material is cotton, khaki, 8-2 ounce. It i$

178

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE authorized for wear by all officers and enlisted men except those of mounted units and of overseas departments. The brim will be worn turned down all around. Hat, service. The material is felt, beaver color. Officers are required to wear the hat with a leather chin strap 18 inches in width. It is authorized for wear by personnel of mounted units, by troops in Alaska, in overseas departments, and in localities where the cotton uniform is not worn at any time; and by officers when the field hat is worn by enlisted men.

Flight and Warrant Officers'. Officers'.

Enlisted Men. Plate 5. Cap Ornaments.

Helmet, steel, and liner. This is an article of issue. It is authorized for wear by all personnel. Footgear. The adopted shade of all leather in clothing and articles of equipment, except as noted, is known as "Army russet." Dress boots, officers. Army russet leather of commercial pattern without lacing. Officers who are required to be mounted, as specifically prescribed in AR 605-130, will wear boots when on mounted duty. Personnel of animal-mounted, animal-drawn, or pack organizations (except pack units of Field Artillery) may wear boots at all times. Semidress boots, officers. Army russet leather of commercial p2ttern IRced at the instep for a distance not to exceed 10 inches. They may have an opening not to exceed 4 inches at the top, closed with lacing or strap. Field boots, officers. Army russet leather, legging to pattern, with three buckles on the side or with laces, or entirely laced. Boots, rubber. Russet, waterproof, commercial pattern. Rubber boots may be worn when conditions warrant when prescribed by commanding officers of posts, camps, or stations and of mine planters, cable ships, and transports.

APPENDIX

179

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT Shoes. Commercial pattern, high or low, Army russet leather. Low shoes may be worn with plain tan (or brown) socks by officers and enlisted men when authorized by the commanding officer.

Field Boot with Laces..

Field Boots with Three Combat Boots. Inches on Side. Plate 6. Footgear.

Leggins.

Field Jacket. M1943. Plate '1.

Overshoes. When conditions warrant, overshoes may be prescribed by the commanding officer. They are optional when not in formation. Leggins, Canvas. Of adopted standard and design. Worn with high shoes by all

180

SILVER WINGS/ PINKS & GREENS

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE officers and enlisted men except those of animal-mounted, animal-drawn, or· pack organizations (except pack units of Field Artillery) when prescribed by the commanding officer. Gloves. Dress gloves of chamois leather or chamois color material are worn by officers when prescribed. They are optional when off ciuty. Dress gloves of white cotton or lisle are worn by officers at official and social functions as prescribed and at formations when troops wear white gloves. Service gloves are of leather or wool. The leather gloves are prescribed of light russet leather, lined or unlined, snap fastener, pull-on or buckle type. They are worn by officers and men of mounted organizations when prescribed and optional when off duty. Wool gloves are olive drab. They are worn by officers and men when prescribed and optional when off duty. Necktie. The necktie for officers, warrant officers, and enlisted men is of a material without stripe or figure, of cotton, mohair, olive-drab, No.3, of adopted four-in-hand type. The necktie will be worn when the service coat is worn and when the olive-drab wool or khaki shirt is worn without the coat, except that neckties will not be worn in the field or under simulated field conditions. When the ,hirt is worn without the coat, the necktie will be tucked into the shirt between the first and second visible buttons. Jacket, Field. The new field jacket, M1943, which has been developed by the Quartermaster Corps represents a material -improvement in this highly essential, all-purpose garment, which has been highly popular for field wear. It is longer than its predecessor, generally of heavier material, provided with shoulder loops and liberal pockets. An innovation is the adjustable waistline draw cord which is especially valued for retention of body heat when worn in low temperatures, and as a means of holding the garment in place when worn unbuttoned. It' also has throat tabs for neck protection. The occasions on which the field jacket may be worn are restricted because, it is to be presumed, it is a field garment and in no sense a dress article of the uniform. It may be worn within the limits of posts, camps, or stations, and then only when prescribed by the commanding officer of the unit involved. It will not be worn outside the limits of posts, camps, or stations except when appropriate to the discharge of an assigned mission, and then only when prescribed by the appropriate commanding officer. In maneuver areas, however, the uniform will be as prescribed by the appropriate commander and it may be true that the field jacket can be authorized for wear without restriction under those conditions. Officers' Belt. For wear with the service coat, wool, the prescribed belt is the officers' belt, cloth, matching the coat in color and fabric; 1 X Inches in width, equipped with a removable brass or olive drab plastIc 1 ~-inch tongueless buckle and having a tapered end. The brass buckle is required to be shined! Pistol. In the field, the pistol (or revolver or carbine) with holster and 21 rounds of ammunition will be worn by officers and warrant officers. It will not be worn by chat> lains. It will be worn by officers of the Medical Department only when necessary for personal protection. During his tour of duty, the officer of the day will wear the pistol as prescribed by the commanding officer. Adjutants general and adjutants will wear the pistol when placing officers in arrest. Spurs. Spurs will always be worn, with or without stirrup guard, by mounted personnel when duty requires them to be mounted. The spurs will be worn with points down. Web Field Equipment. The standardized web field equipment for officers consists of the belt, pistol or revolver, M1912, the suspenders, pistol or revolver belt, M1936. and the bag, canvas, field M1936. These are worn as prescribed in PM 21-5. (Par. 61, AR 600-40). (See Table 4.) Identification Tar. Identification tags will be worn bV each member of the Army at all times. with either uniform or civilian clothing, and may be removed temporarily only as the necessities of personal hygiene require; one tag to be suspended from the

APPENDIX

U. S. A. Signal Corp. Photo.

U. S. A. Signal Corps Photo.

Plate 8. The knee length Plate 9. A rubberized shorts, convertible sports double texture sult worn shirt and fibre helmet for over the uniform In extropical wear. tremely wet cUmates.

U. S. A. Signal Corps Photo.

Plate 11. A uniform for service in extremely cold climates.

U. S. A. Signal Corps Photo.

Plate 12. uniform.

The ski troop

181

U. S. A. Signal Corps Photo.

Plate 10. The tropical field uniform.

U. S. A. Signal Corps Photo.

Plate 13. Field uniform for di.smountecl troops.

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

182

u. S. A. Signal Corps Photo Uniform for mounted troops.

u. S. A. Signal Corps Photo Plate 15. The new "paratroopers" unIform being inspected by an Army nurse.

Plate 16. This uniform for snowshoe troops has a reversible parka that can be changed to suit camouflage requIre-

Plate 17. Armored Force uniform for winter combat.

Plate 14.

ments.

~ ~ ~

a tT:l

~

0. 8. A. 8 _ Corpa .....-

Plate 18. In defense of freedom-anywhere In the world. summer mounted uniforms.

Left &0 right; snowshoe, tropical, winter battle, armored, ski, paratrooper ....

.....

~

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

184

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE neck underneath the clothing by a cord or tape 40 inches in length passed through a small hole in the tag, the second tag to be fastened about 2 Yz inches above the first one on the same cord or tape, both securely held in place by knots. These tags are prescribed as a part of the uniform and will be habitually worn by the owner. The tags, embossed as provided in AR 600-35, will be issued to each member of the Army as soon as practicable after entry into service. Be certain that this tag contains the data concerning inoculations against disease, and blood type, which are required to be indicated thereon.

THE DRESS UNIFORMS Kinds of Dress Uniforms. The dress uniforms of the Army are the following: Th~ full dr~ss uniform. Blu~ m~ss uniform. Th~ blu~ dr~ss uniform. W hit~ dress uniform. W hit~ m~ss uniform. Th~ full dr~ss or blu~ dr~ss, mount~d. Sp~cial ~tlening dr~ss uniform. Wearing of Dress Uniforms. The authority to wear blue dress uniforms 1ll their TABLE 3. DRESS UNIFORMS AND ACCESSORIES

'"~ or>

AR'l'IUI,EI; WHWH UONl;'l'f'l'UTE THE SEVERAl, DRESI; UNIFORMf-;.

A

(Items marked * are for wear only by otJIc.ers whose .e.rvicp or assignment entItle th"1f) to the privilege.)

.~

AI/!,ulJ1ett. * Rarl/!'e~ * ----- ----------------------------------------------

~~L ~g~~:~~~~;~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

l'oat. hlue Coat. SI,pclal evenlngo dress Coat. white _:_______________________________________ Collar, white, tnrnrlown semIsoft or stIff Collar, full rtress (wIngo) .______________________________ Collar, full rtress (wingo) or harri, turn-rtown Decorations, .1ar/!'e anrt servIPe mertals, large * Decorations, mIniature, and sen'lce medals, miniature * Fourra!(ere * Gloves, dress, white -------------------------------------rlrp.~.

bO

~

=I ~ !

!

~

i.lli

x x

x x

x

x

or>

~.~

~I~

--1-'--1I x

x

~-----

1

x x

I x

1------

--;-- ~~~l~~~~ ~~~~~ ~~~~~ ~~~~~

_ _

x

x x

dre~s,

?J~;;I'rica~~~~s: ~h:rm~;a;t~e~i--o~~;e;~i-Elt-;ir-~--::::::::

'-

x

x

x x

_ x

x

x

:_____ x x x x x 1______ x --x-- ~ ---.;--

x x x

x x

--X---

x x x

--x--'--x--

____________________________________________________:J" X X X X x Jal'ket, mess, blue x _ Jal'ket, mess, whIte __ x Knots, shoulder x x 'It Nel'ktle, dress, black x x x Necktie, evenIng riress, hlack x x x Overcoat, ollve-rirab, optIonal xx xx x x ---x _ Saher, If prescrIbed x Rlhhons, servIce' 1______ x ----- ---- x ---ShIrt, white x x ,______ x _ Shirt, full dress, plain gold studs and culT buttons ---- ------ ----- x x x In~hmla

I

---------------------------1

I

~~~:::. ~~I~~:::~:=:=::=::==:::=:=:::::::::::::::::::==::=,--~

:

:__ I__~ __ --x-- __~ __

Troll Rers, clrP.R8, blue Trousers, special evening dress

x

------ ----- ----- ----x _

if;:~~, ~~~~I
1·

x:

x

x

_

._

]I:

APPENDIX

185

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT several types was withdrawn by the War Department on April 1, 1943, for the duration of the present war and six months thereafter. (Circulars No. 90 and 101, 1943.) Authority to wear the white dress uniform as well as the summer coat for officers continues to be authorized as an ortion.

Plate 19.

White Dress Uniform. (IIlUlJtnltlotl&.

Courtesy.

Plate 20. Th..

A.f'RO<'I8teotl

MillUtr'l

White Mess Uniform. "'lAJr...... ,

INSIGNIA Definition. The term insignia includes all the metallic or embroidered articles which are worn on the uniform that serve to identify the wearer as a member of the Army of the United States-his grade and arm or service, his organization in some instances, and other incidents of his service such as wound and war service chevrons. Except as otherwise prescribed, insignia for wear upon umtorm clothIng will be made of gold or gold color material. Insignia of grade for shoulder loops may be embroidered. Metal insignia of grade may be knurled or smooth. Officers who find the use of metalic insignia objectionable, especially under field conditions, should make use of embroideren cloth insignia which may be sewed permanently on all garments. Headgear Insignia and Ornamentation. Helmet. Insignia of grade will be worn by officers on the front of the steel helmet, and/or helmet liner, centered on the front of the helmet or liner, with center of the insignia 2Yz inches from the lower edge of the helmet or liner. Insignia will be painted on the helmet or liner, and of standard size. Bars will be worn perpendicular to the bottom edge of the helmet or liner. Leaves will be worn with stem down. The eagle will be worn, beak to the wearer's right. The star will be worn point upward. The stare s) will be centered on the front of the helmet or liner. The line of centers will be parallel to the base of the helmet or liner, and spaced Ys inch apart. Cap, garrison. General officers: cord edge braid of gold bullion, rayon, or metal1lzed cellophone of gold color. Other officers: cord edge braid of gold bullion, rayon, or metallized cellophane of gold color and. black silk intermixed. Warrant officers: cord edge braid of silver bullion, rayon, or metallized cellophane and black silk intermixed.

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

186

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE Metallized cellophane should not be used on caps which will be washed. (Circular No. 82, War Department, March 21, 1942.) Insignia of grade will be worn by officers on the garrison cap, on the left side, centered on the curtalll, with center of the insignia 1 Y2 inches from the front. The bars of lieutenants and captains will be worn perpendicular to the bottom edge of the cap. The leaves of majors and. lieutenant colonels will be worn with stem down. The eagle of colonels will be w(:rn beak to the front. The star of a brigadier general will be worn point upward. Additional stars will extend to the rear of the first star and be placed Ys inch apart. Miniature insignia of grade is authorized for general officers, and when worn, additional stars will be placed at a relatively smaller interval.

INSIGNIA OF GRADE

DISTINCTIVE INSIGNIA


AIR.. CORPS INSIGNIA

® Service Cap. @Garrison Cap. AViation Cadets. Plate 21. Insignia on Headgear.

Cap, service. The coat of arms of the United States. Warrant officers wear the warrant officers' lllslgllla. Hat, sen/tee. The hat cord is worn. General officers wear a double cord of gold bullion, rayon, and metallized cellophane with acorns and keeper. Other officers wear the same type cord of gold color and black intermixed. Warrant officers w~ar the same cord with silver and black intermixed. It is standard practice to adjust the length of the hat cord so that the acorns come to the edge of the brim, or slightly beyond the brim. It is unsightly to tie knots at the keeper to adjust the length; the acorns should be slid back and the cord cut off at the ends to obtain the desired length. The hat cord should be -sewed in place. Insignia on Collar or Lapel of Service Coat. The insignia worn on the collar or lapel of the service coat is of metal, consisting, on each lapel, of the letters"U. S." and insignia indicating the arm, service, bureau, etc., to which the individual is assigned. Officers and flight officers wear the letters "U. S." on the collar (lapel) horizontally, lower edge one-half inch above the horizontal line of lapel, the center of the "U. S." at the center of the collar. The insignia of arm or service is worn horizontally on the lapel, upper edge one-half inch below the horizontal line of lapel and centered below the "U. S." (note the precise arrangement in Plate 22.) arrant officers wear the insignia of warrant officers in lieu of the insignia of arm or serVlce. Aviation cadets wear the letters "U. S." and the Air Corps insignia as worn by com· missioned officers and flight officers. Insignia on Shirt. When the olive-drab or khaki shin is worn without the lervict coat, insignia will be worn as follows: On the collar (see Plate 22.)

W.

APPENDIX

187

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT

All offic"S, except general offic"s. On the right side, 1 inch from the end, the insignia of grade; on the left side, 1 inch from the end, metal insignia indicating arm, service, bureau, etc. Bars will be worn parallel with front edge of collar. Leaves will be worn with stem down. The eagle will be worn beak to the front. Gen"al officers ot the line. On both sides, 1 inch from the end, the insignia of grade. Other gen"al offic"s. On the right side, 1 inch from the end, the insignia of grade; on the left side, 1 inch from the end, metal insignia indicating arm, service, bureau, etc. Additional stars. Additional stars will extend to the rear of the first star and be placed Ye inch apart. Miniatures. General officers are authorized to wear miniature insignia of grade. Additional miniature stars will be placed at a relatively smaller interval than indicated above.

Plate 22.

insignia on Coat Lapel and Shirt Collar.

Warrant officers. On the right side, 1 inch from the end, the insignia of grade, on the left side, 1 inel}. from the end, insignia of arm, service or bureau. If not on duty with arm or service, the coat of arms of the United States 9/16 inch in height within a ring % inch in diameter. Bars will be worn parallel with the front edge of the collar. Officers in the AUS. Officers from civil life appointed in the components of the Medical Department or as Chaplains will wear the insignia prescribed for those services. All other officers will wear the insignia of the Specialist Reserve during the initial 90 day active duty. Upon satisfactory completion of training, the insignia of the arm of service to which assigned will be worn; if unassigned the Specialist reserve insignia will be worn. Colors and Insignia of the Several Arms and Services. Each arm and service has a distinctive insignia and a distinctive color. The insignia is worn on the uniform as heretofore described. The hat cords worn by enlisted men are in the color prescribed for their branch. Distinctive branch color is used on the shoulder straps of the blue dress uniform and on other gold braid decorations. It is also used in the blue drell uniforms as cape linings and other purposes. The colors and insignia of the several arms and services are as follows: Color

Branc" G~n~ral Staff Corpl Adjutant G~n~ral', Dept. Inspector General', Dept.

Judg~

Advocate General',

Gold and black

Insignia

Dark blue and light blur

Coat of arm. on altar Dark blu~ 5hidd Crossed swords and fasce! with wreath Crossed Iword and pen wreathed

BuB

Eagl~

Dark blur' and white

Departm~nt

Quarterma'ter Corpl

IUrmountinll wheel crossed Iword and key

with

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

188

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE Branch

Color

Insignia

---------------------------

MeLlH:al VepanmCJlt t.ngmeer Corps Orunance DepanmCJlt Fmance Deparunent Air Corps Armored Command Signal Corps

Maroun anLl white Scarlet and white Crimson and yellow Grey and yellow Ultra-marine and orange Green and white Orange and white

Chemical Warfare Service Chaplams

Hlue and yellow Illack

Cavalry Field Artillery Infantry Coast Artillery

Yellow Scarlet Light blue Scarlet

Militia Bureau Tank Destroyer Forces Transportation Corps

Dark blue Golden Orange and Black Brick red and yellow

Caduceus Castle Shell and Bame Diamond Wings and· propellor Tank Crossed signal flags with f1amina torch Benzol ring and crossed retorts Latin cross or double tablets and interlaced triangles Crossed sabers Crossed cannon Crossed rifles Crossed cannon with red onl projectile Crossed fasces and eagle 75-mm gun, motor carriage M3 Wmg-ed whe,.1

Shoulder Loop Insignia. On each shoulder loop of the service. coat, the long overcoat, the short overcoat, the raincoat, the field jacket, and on each shoulder of work clothing and of aviators' outside suits or coats, metal or embroidered insignia of grade will Ix worn as follows: Second lieutenants and first lieutenants, flight officers and warrant officers wear the bar in the middle of the loop parallel to and 18 inch from the sleeve end of loop. Captains place the bars in ao similar manner with the lower bar parallel to and Ys inch fwm sleeve end of loop. Majors and lieutenant colonels place the leaves, point up, in middle of loop, stem of leaf Ys inch from sleeve end of loop. The eagle worn by a colonel is placed in the middle of the loop, head up, beak to the front, talons Ys inch from the sleeve end of loop. Brigadier generals place the star, point up,

O/~rl1'/Cr'Vl! I~/G/I/IA

GRAO~ IN.!J/G/IIIA

Plate 23.

Insignia on Shoulder Loop, omcers' Coat.

in the center of loop. Major generals place the center of the two stars, points up, inchs apart, the stars equidistant from the sleeve end of the loop and the outel edge of the button. Lieutenant generals place the three stars, points up, equidistant each from the other. Generals place the four star~, points up, equidistant one from the other. When an officer wears the work uniform, insignia is worn as prescribed for the olive-drab shirt. Commanding generals of independent forces outside the continental limits of United States operating directly under the War Department are authorized to prescribe the method of wearing insignia. This provision enables certain overseas commanders to 2~

APPENDIX

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT prescribe that insignia of grade may be entirely removed, or to be worn elsewhere than as stated above, when he considers such action to be desirable. Shoulder Loop Insignia for Warrant Officers. Warrant officers other than of the Army Mine Planter Service. Chief warrant officer. One gold bar Ys inch width and I inch in length, with rounded ends, having a brown enameled top and a longitudinal center of gold lis inch in width. Warrant officer (junior grade). One gold bar % inch in width and 1 inch in length, with rounded ends, having a brown enameled top and a latitundinal center of gold Ys inch in width. Warrant officers wear insignia as prescribed for Lieutenants. Shoulder Loop Insignia for Flight Officers. Flight officers of the Army Air Forces wear insignia as prescribed for Lieutenants. It consists of one gold bar Ys inch in width and one inch in length with rounded ends, having a blue enameled top and a latitudinal center of gold Ys inch in width. Sleeve Insignia. Insignia of grade consisting of knots of prescribed and decorative design of white cord or of gold or gilt wire tracing braid are sewed on the sleeves of the white mess jacket, blue mess jacket, and special evening dress coat, on the basis of five rows for a colonel, four for a lieutenant colonel, three for a major, two for a captain, and one for 'a first lieutenant. Arm or bureau insignia, embroidered or of metal, is worn in the center of the space formed by the lower curves of the knot and the upper edge of the sleeve band. On the overcoat of general officers two bands of black mohair braid are worn on both sleeves. The I Y4-inch band is placed with its lower edge 2Yz inches above and parallel to the end of the sleeve; the Yz-inch band is placed with its lower edge I Yz inches above the upper edge of and parallel to the other band. Wound and War Service Chevrons. Wound and war service chevrons are worn only by those officers, Army nurses, warrant officers and enlisted men who have been authorized to do so as stated in AR 600-95. Wound and war service chevrons are worn on the service coat only, wound chevrons on the right sleeve and war service chevrons on the left sleeve. They are worn points down in the center of the outside half of the sleeve, the point of the lowest chevron to be one inch above the cuff braid of the officers' coat. When more than one chevron is worn, the space between chevrons shall be five-eighths inch. Wound and war service chevrons will not be authorized to be worn by Army per, sonnel for service during the current war, but those officers, Army nurses, warrant officers and enlisted men entitled to wear such chevrons for service in the first World War may continue to do so. Authority to wear such chevrons is contained in Army Regulations No. 600-40. lbe instructions are very specific, however, in stating that neither wound nor war service chevrons will be authorized to be worn for service during the present war. The Purple Heart has been authorized for wounds received in action, and in lieu of the war service chevrons that were authorized to be worn on the left sleeve for overseas service in the first W orId War, service rendered overseas in the current war is shown by the appropriate theater service ribbons that have been authorized by President Roosevelt in Executive Order No. 9265, November 6, 194Z. The Executive Order establishes three theaters for which a medal and ribbon will be awarded for each area. the three theaters include the American Theater, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater. and the Asiatic-Pacific Theater. Aviation Cadet Sleeve Insignia. Aviation cadets wear their authorized insignia centered on the outside of the right sleeve of the coat and overcoat with the lowest point four inches above the lower edge. Insignia, Officer Candidate SchooL The prescribed insignia for wear by officer candidates, is as follows: On a dark-blue, cloth background Zy.f inches in diameter. the letters "CS" in monogram form, within the letter "0" in olive-drab, all elements 5/32 inch in width.

189

190

SILVER WINGS, PINKS & GREENS

THE OFFICER'S GUIDE Insignia, Shoulder ~leeve. Shoulder sleeve insignia are authorized for wear by indio viduals assigned to units such as divisions, territonal departments, and others specifically authorized. It will be worn on the upper pan of the outer half of the lett sleeves of the service coat, overcoat, field jacket, and the shirt when worn as an outer garment, the top of the insignia to be one-half inch below top of the shoulder-seam. Shoulder sleeve insignia worn by divisions and larger units of World War No. 1 are shown in colors at the beginning of this volume; their use by divisions of the current war has been revived, and new ones have been authorized in many instances. Distinctive Insignia and Trimmings. Subject to the approval of the War Department in each case, organizations classified in general as regiments, separate battalions, or separate companies are authorized to adopt distinctive insignia or trimmings for wear by members thereof as a part of the uniform as a means of promoting esprit de corps. Distinctive insignia should bear the organization badge or coat of arms, or similar device, having historical significapce connected with the organization, such as the ornament of the organization when originally organized, or that worn in some prior war. If trimmings are adopted, the color should have some historical significance connected with the organization. Colored trimmings will not be worn with the cotton service uniform. Distinctive insignia and trimmings will not be adopted where conditions preclude their issue to enlisted men from purchas{"s nlade by unit or post exchange funds. Unless otherwise specifically authorized by the War Department, distinctive insignia will be worn by officers as tollows: on the service coat centered on the shoulder loops. On the service hat midway between band and eyelet. Distinctive insignia is not worn by officers on the service shirt or garrison caps. DECORATIONS, SERVICE MEDALS, AND BADGES Awards of Decorations. Awards of decorations are made by the War D~partment acting for the President, except that the commanding general of a separate army or of a higher unit in the field in time of war may award all decorations other than the Medal of Honor and the Distinguished-Service Medal, under conditions prescribed. A decoration is an award granted by the Government or by the War Department acting for the President in recognition of an outstanding act of heroism or an especially noteworthy service performed by an individual. This subject is contained in Sec. V, Decorations, Service Medals, etc., AR 600-40, and in AR 600-45, Decorations. For purposes of historical reference, readers who are interested in citations 1862-1926 are advised to consult War Department Document No. 18a, Office of The Adjutant General. FOR HEROISM Medal of Honor.

2

This, the highest and most rarely awarded decoration conferred

• The Medal of Honor, senior decoration of the- United states, was authorized by the Congress and approved July 12, 1862. By 1926 a total of 1820 had been awarded. Of this number, 1723 were awarded prior to the World War, 6 to the Unknown Soldiers of the United States, France, Great Braaln, Italy, B€'lglum, and Rumania, and one to Colonel Charles A. Linduergh. lhe officer. of the Regular Army, now Uving, active and retired. who held this honor prior to. December 7, 1941. are as follows: Major General Andre W. Brewster, Retired. Major General Charl€'s E. K1lbourne, Retired. Brigadier General Charles D. Roberts. Retired. Brigadier General George C. Shaw, Retired. Coionel Joseph S. Cec1l, Infantry, RetlrE'd. Colonel Ira C. Welborn, Infantry, Retired. Oolonel George E. Stewart, Infantry, Retired. Colonel Louis J. Van Schalck, Infantry. Retired. Colonel Allen J. Gre€'r, Field Artillery, Retired. Colonel Arthur H. Wilson. Cavalry. Colonel John T. Kennedy, Field Artlllery. Colonel Seth L. Weld. Infantry. Retired. Colonel Geor!':e P. Hays. Field ArtlUery. Lt. Colonel Calvin P. Titus" Infantry, R€'tlred. Major Edward C. Allworth. Major Oscar Burkard, MAC, Retired. Major General Charles E. Kilbourne and Mr. W11llam J. Donovan, at date of publlcatlon of this volume, are the only men living who hOld the Medal of Honor, the Dlsting¢shed-Servlce Cross, and the Distinguished-Service Medal. General Kilbourne, in 1942, was Superintendent of The V1rlrlnla M1l1tary Institute, bls alma mater.

BIBLIOGRAPHY "Bombardier School," Life Magazine, Vo1.12, No.20, May 18, 1942

Maurer, Maurer, ed., Combat Squadrons of the Air Force, World War II, Albert F. Simpson Historical Research Center and Office of Air Force History, Washington, D.C., 1982.

Britton, Jack, Washington, George, Jr., Military Shoulder Patches of the Unites States Armed Forces, Tulsa, Oklahoma, 1985.

Minnich, Mike., "Wings of Valor," Wings & Things ofthe World, Nos,23-24, Spring/Summer 1993, Reprinted from Airpower, May, 1989.

Campbell, J. Duncan, Aviation Badges and Insignia ofthe United States Army, 1913-1946, The Triangle Press, 1977.

Mollo, Andrew, The Armed Forces of World War II, Uniforms, Insignia, and Organization, Crown Publishers, Inc., New York, 1981.

"Cimarron Chief," Oklahoma Air College, December 1941. DuBois, Arthur E., "Insignia of the United States Armed Forces," National Geographic, Vol.LXXXIII, No.6, June 1943.

The Official Guide to the Army Air Forces, AAF, A Directory, Almanac and Chronicle ofAchievement, Simon and Schuster, New York, 1944.

DuBois, Arthur E., "The Traditions and Glamour of Insignia," National Geographic, Vol.LXXXIII, No.6, June 1943.

Form One, Vol.III, No.7, December 1942

Rosignoli, Guido, Badges and Insignia ofWorld War II, Air Force, Naval, Marine, Peerage Books, London, 1980.

Godfrey, John T., The Look of Eagles, Random House, Inc., New York, 1958.

Smith, Richard w., Pelz, Roy A., ed., Shoulder Sleeve Insignia of the U.S. Armed Forces, 1941-1945, 1981.

Huff, RussellJ., Wings ofWorld War II, RJ. Huff & Assoc, Inc., Sarasota, Florida, 1985.

Sweeting, c.G., U.S. Combat Flying Clothing, Army Air Forces Clothing During World War II, Arms and Armour Press, London, 1984.

McGregor, Malcolm, and Mollo, Andrew, Naval, Marine and Air Force Uniforms ofWorld War 2, MacMillan Publishing Co., Inc., New York.

Widdows, Richard, ed., The American Soldier, U.S. Armies in Uniform, 1755 to the Present, Military Press/Random House, New York, 1990.

Mann, Carl, Air Heraldry, Robert M. McBride & Company, New York, 1944. Massaro, Joseph M., Distinctive Insignia of the U.S. Army Air Forces, 1924-1947, International Publishing Co., Austin, Texas, 1987.

Woolnough, John H., Lt.Col., The Eighth Air Force Year Book, The Current Status of 8th AF Unit Associations, 1980, The 8th AF News, Hollywood, Florida., 1981.

Maurer, Maurer, ed., Air Force Combat Units of World War II, Office of Air Force History, Washington, D.C., Reprint 1961.

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