Late 30s -Vestra- Mens khaki green background wool longsleeve 6 button front closure military jacket. This is a Royal Air Force jacket attributed to No. 13 Squadron, which was stationed in France from October 1939 to May 1940 during the early stages of World War II. The jacket is stamped -Strasbourg-, indicating it was made in France, for RAF personnel deployed in the region. No. 13 Squadron played a critical reconnaissance role but suffered heavy casualties during the German invasion of France in May 1940. The jacket features button down shoulder epaulets and brass metal buttons with crests, reflecting RAF military design of the era. It includes a wide notched fold-over collar, two lower front side entry inset pockets, and a square hemline. The interior is lined with heavy cotton, and there is a middle back vent along the lower hem. The original penguin pin worn on the lapel is an indication that this belonged to a ground crew member. In RAF slang, the term penguin humorously referred to non flying personnel. Penguins, being flightless birds, symbolized those who served in important ground-based roles but were not aircrew. This jacket is in outstanding condition, with only a small 1.25 inch mend on the left collar seam. A remarkable piece of history from the early days of WWII.
Fits 40Chest (Mens Medium), 32.5Sleeve, 42Inches long
Good Condition
2.00 lbs
