This World War II USAAF A-2 flight jacket was manufactured by Aero Leather Clothing Co., is a size 38, has a Talon zipper, and was worn by Technical Sergeant Paul Spieler, gunner aboard the B-24 “Sassy Lassy” of the 737th Bomb Squadron, 454th Bomb Group, 15th Air Force. On the left chest are two leather name tags double stacked and marked “P.S. SPIELER” and “ARM. GUN” respectfully. The left sleeve carries painted 15th AF insignia above a painted American flag. The right chest displays a collection of painted bombs representing 42 missions. Additional included articles of clothing include a long sleeve shirt with 15th AF patch and technical sergeant rank and USAAF service dress coat with enlisted/technical sergeant insignia, gunner wing, combat crew badge, and three service ribbons (Air Medal with oak cluster, Good Conduct Medal, and European–African–Middle Eastern Campaign with two stars). Spieler's personal affects: two garrison caps, sewing kit, tie, dog tags, gunner wing, .50 caliber casing, two inert .50 caliber rounds, two green/white tip frangible .30-06 cartridges, and a grouping of photos showing Spieler, “Sassy Lassy,” and crew. The 454th Bomb Group was activated in 1943, primarily saw combat in the Mediterranean Theater and drooped over 13,000 tons of bombs on enemy targets such as marshalling yards, oil refineries, and rail lines. “Sassy Lassy” was shot down in July 1944. Paul Spieler (1922-2009) survived the war and returned to his home state of Texas. For nearly 40 years he worked as a switchboard operator.

The A-2 jacket is very good with supple leather, typical wear and insect damage to cuffs and waist band, and most of the paint remaining. The other articles of clothing are good-very good. An identified USAAF A-2 that is a testament to the fighting spirit of American aircrews.