This World War II USAAF A-2 flight jacket (drawing number 30-415 AC. order no. 756) is a size 36, has a Conmar zipper, and was worn by a member of the 9th Air Force. The left chest features a W. Bruce leather name tag. A large patch as well as a name tag have been removed from the left chest. The back of the jacket is painted with the 9th AF emblem above Bruce’s P-47D. Nicknamed the “Jug,” the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt was one of the toughest Allied aircraft to fly during World War II and performed a variety of roles such as bomber escort and close air support. P-47 pilots claimed nearly 4,000 enemy aircraft and few more than half a million sorties throughout the war. It was a highly effective ground attack aircraft capable of carrying 2,500 pounds of external ordnance, or about half the payload of a B-17 Flying Fortress. The P-47D was the fighter-bomber force in the 9th AF. The 9th AF was activated in April 1942 as the tactical fighter component to the U.S. strategic air forces in Europe and fought in campaigns in Egypt, Libya, Sicily, Italy, France, and Germany. This jacket serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the “Jug.”

Very good displaying authentic use with heavier wear on the waist and cuffs, and replacement zipper pull tab. The artwork on the back has faded but remains visible. Painted World War II A-2 jackets linked to the legacy of the P-47 Thunderbolt are rarely encountered.